I haven't posted in a long time... it's been a busy fall!
What is your favourite time of year?? Mine is Christmas. It's the time of year that we get to spoil our friends and family with gifts and kindness. I love it!
Growing up we always had a perfectly decorated tree, perfectly baked cookies and perfectly wrapped gifts. Now that I'm "all grown up" my goal is to focus on the meaning behind the tree, the cookies and the gifts! I try to not get caught up in the temptation of being "perfect" but instead, pour my heart into everything that we do over the season!
Here are a few traditions that we partake in as a family:
1. The celebration of advent. The kids and I do somet kind of advent calendar/countdown/countup thing to keep track of the month. We read a couple of different stories about the first Christmas and talk about the meaning behind the advent themes: peace, hope, love and joy! In the past we have lit advent candles every week, but this year we made some out of paper...
2. Gifts... we do give gifts! I love shopping, I love seeing the kids' eyes as they open their gifts on Christmas! We give gifts, because we believe the Jesus was given as a gift, to the world. The kids also give gifts away, as we put together Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes every year to give to children who may or may not have a Christmas.
3. Food! Of course, food... Turkey with all the fixins' This year in school we learned about the food in France and Mexico at Christmas time... we are going to try and make something like what they would eat in those countries for dinner... just to spice things up a little bit! On Christmas morning we have a "wife saver" -- we always had this growing up and I have made it almost every year, this year will be the same!
4. Christmas Eve -- we will read the Christmas story and open 1 gift that is always pajamas... this year homemade pajamas, by yours truly! We will likely go to church on Sunday morning instead of Christmas Eve this year, simply because Mama likes an early bedtime... cause we all know it will be an early morning!
Enjoy your traditions this year and why not make a new one?
Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
A Great Idea!
As many of you know, my life has been turned upside down in the last few months. I've been just surviing most days, but every week, every month it seems to get easier and life is getting back to "normal" -- even though our "normal" is not what it used to be! I said to a friend the other day, "Life as I knew it before June does not exisit anymore!" I am able to find happiness and contentment in life now, even though it's not the life I thought I'd be living!
Anyways..... on to the great idea!
So I was thinking the other day about Christmas gifts and making something this year. I decided to make reheatable rice bags, the kind you put in the microwave to warm up. We have used them for years and both me and kids love them. Then I thought, "Why not make them to sell, or at least see if there is any interest!" What a great idea. It's something I can do from home, while the kids are sleeping. It's a perfect gift for Christmas, or any other occasion fo
My main motivation for starting to make Butterfly Bags! was that I really, really, really, (you get the idea!) want to stay home with the kids and not go to work full-time. So between this and another part-time job, I'm hopigng this will make it possible, or continue to mamke it posible.
So I put it out there, on FB of course and had my first order the next day, and then my second and third... and you get the idea, I've had orders for almost two dozen bags already! Double Yay!
Here is the little blogspot I've created for Butterfly Bags! and it's also on FB too, of course. :)
Check it out, I'd love to make one (or more!) for you
Anyways..... on to the great idea!
So I was thinking the other day about Christmas gifts and making something this year. I decided to make reheatable rice bags, the kind you put in the microwave to warm up. We have used them for years and both me and kids love them. Then I thought, "Why not make them to sell, or at least see if there is any interest!" What a great idea. It's something I can do from home, while the kids are sleeping. It's a perfect gift for Christmas, or any other occasion fo
My main motivation for starting to make Butterfly Bags! was that I really, really, really, (you get the idea!) want to stay home with the kids and not go to work full-time. So between this and another part-time job, I'm hopigng this will make it possible, or continue to mamke it posible.
So I put it out there, on FB of course and had my first order the next day, and then my second and third... and you get the idea, I've had orders for almost two dozen bags already! Double Yay!
Here is the little blogspot I've created for Butterfly Bags! and it's also on FB too, of course. :)
Check it out, I'd love to make one (or more!) for you
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Friends... one of my favourite things!
Life just wouldn't be life without friends!
I have had a whole bunch of really great friends in my life... friends who I don't think I would have been able to live without!
Here are some of the best of the best that I remember...
C, L, T & J -- friends who accepted me for who I was, even when I was SUPER dorky and didn't even know how to do my hair or dress myself properly! LOL! Friends who made me do things that I wouldn't have normally done... both good and not so good! Friends who made junior high and high school liveable. Friends who will always be friends, even if we don't see eachother all the time!
A - Hmm... a friend who made me feel so special, every time we were together. Someone who encouraged me, lifted me up and helped me through some of the hardest, most difficult times in my life. A friend who stuck with my, from thousands of miles away. A friend who made me laugh, gave great hugs and spent so many hours on the phone, when I needed her the most! I wish we were still friends, I miss her SO much.
J - Oh my -- I've never had a friend like J before, and never since. She was my sanity, amidst of my crazy life situations. She knew how to have fun, and we had so much fun together. Endless days and nights of talking, praying and laughing -- did I mention laughing? J and I could laugh for hours, about nothing, and everything. I will NEVER forget the year we spent together and the trips and the days worth of phone calls inbetween it all. Man, I wish we were still super good friends!
A - When life happens you just need a great friend. That's how I feel about A -- it was perfect timing when we met, we have so much in common, it's crazy! Our lives have meshed together so nicely it's been a blast getting to know her over the past few years. A and I just "get" eachother -- we are so different, yet so passionate about the same things... I don't think I would have survived the past year and a half without her. I love her determination, her zest for life and her passion for being the best she can be... She has lived through some seriously crappy stuff and has come out stronger on the other side! I'm so honoured to be her friend!
S - Oh my -- if two people were meant to be friends, it's me and S. It's like we were made with the same mold sometimes. She encourages me to be the person Iwant to be. She has lived through so much stuff that I have gone through recently -- her wisdom and gentle advice is just perfect. I love her laugh, her smile and her ability to deal with what comes her way. She is a great Mom and a wonderful friend. I am so glad that our paths crossed and I hope they never "uncross!"
D - Hmm? Another painful one. I don't think I can do it right now. I miss this friend so much. I thought we'd be friends forever. This friend knows ALL my secrets and all my shortcomings. They everything about me, the good, the bad and the ugly. I feel lost somedays without them around. I wish... I wish!
Well, that didn't turn out like I thought it would. What is the point of this post you ask?
What would our lives be like if we didn't have any friends? Man, how boring it would be without someone to laugh with, cry with, celebrate with , encourage, build up, do crazy stuff with.... talk to...
I wish I had been a better friend thoughout my life. I know I have lost friendships because I was not the friend I should have been. I judged when I should have accepted. I was intolerant when I should have been forgiving. I was mean when I should have been kind. For that, I'm SORRY, so sorry!
*wipes away the tears*
I have had a whole bunch of really great friends in my life... friends who I don't think I would have been able to live without!
Here are some of the best of the best that I remember...
C, L, T & J -- friends who accepted me for who I was, even when I was SUPER dorky and didn't even know how to do my hair or dress myself properly! LOL! Friends who made me do things that I wouldn't have normally done... both good and not so good! Friends who made junior high and high school liveable. Friends who will always be friends, even if we don't see eachother all the time!
A - Hmm... a friend who made me feel so special, every time we were together. Someone who encouraged me, lifted me up and helped me through some of the hardest, most difficult times in my life. A friend who stuck with my, from thousands of miles away. A friend who made me laugh, gave great hugs and spent so many hours on the phone, when I needed her the most! I wish we were still friends, I miss her SO much.
J - Oh my -- I've never had a friend like J before, and never since. She was my sanity, amidst of my crazy life situations. She knew how to have fun, and we had so much fun together. Endless days and nights of talking, praying and laughing -- did I mention laughing? J and I could laugh for hours, about nothing, and everything. I will NEVER forget the year we spent together and the trips and the days worth of phone calls inbetween it all. Man, I wish we were still super good friends!
A - When life happens you just need a great friend. That's how I feel about A -- it was perfect timing when we met, we have so much in common, it's crazy! Our lives have meshed together so nicely it's been a blast getting to know her over the past few years. A and I just "get" eachother -- we are so different, yet so passionate about the same things... I don't think I would have survived the past year and a half without her. I love her determination, her zest for life and her passion for being the best she can be... She has lived through some seriously crappy stuff and has come out stronger on the other side! I'm so honoured to be her friend!
S - Oh my -- if two people were meant to be friends, it's me and S. It's like we were made with the same mold sometimes. She encourages me to be the person Iwant to be. She has lived through so much stuff that I have gone through recently -- her wisdom and gentle advice is just perfect. I love her laugh, her smile and her ability to deal with what comes her way. She is a great Mom and a wonderful friend. I am so glad that our paths crossed and I hope they never "uncross!"
D - Hmm? Another painful one. I don't think I can do it right now. I miss this friend so much. I thought we'd be friends forever. This friend knows ALL my secrets and all my shortcomings. They everything about me, the good, the bad and the ugly. I feel lost somedays without them around. I wish... I wish!
Well, that didn't turn out like I thought it would. What is the point of this post you ask?
What would our lives be like if we didn't have any friends? Man, how boring it would be without someone to laugh with, cry with, celebrate with , encourage, build up, do crazy stuff with.... talk to...
I wish I had been a better friend thoughout my life. I know I have lost friendships because I was not the friend I should have been. I judged when I should have accepted. I was intolerant when I should have been forgiving. I was mean when I should have been kind. For that, I'm SORRY, so sorry!
I hope that I've learned from my mistakes and can be a better friend in my second 3 decades! I appreciate my friends SO much, I honestly don't know what I'd do without them.
*sniffle*
*wipes away the tears*
"Friendships don't just happen,
but the best ones seem to fall into place
right from the start, naturally and easily
as if they were always meant to be!"
~ Anonymous
Friday, August 20, 2010
Babywearing Part 2 - BabyHawks ROCK!
When Halia was 3 1/2 years I bought a BabyHawk from EcoBaby Canada -- I designed my own, what a perfect thing to do for a anal person like me. Andrea, with EcoBaby is doing a pre-order on custom BabyHawks -- you get 15% off, great deal!
BabyHawks can be used for front carries and back carries. All sizes -- newborn, infant, toddler and big kids! My daughter is 40 pounds and it is still comfortable -- but that will depend on your comfort level and strength.
**note** There are more "brands" of these carriers, which are called Mei Tai's -- so it's kinda like jeans, Mei Tai is the pair of jeans and BabyHawk is the brand, like Levi or Wrangler!
So, the same babywearing safety applies to these carriers!
1. Make sure you use the appropriate carrier for you and your child.
2. Make sure you learn and use the carrier properly.
3. Make sure baby is free to breathe when in the carrier. Face should be visible at all times!
So if you are looking for a comfy, versatile, washable, colorful (or not!) carrier for newborns all the way to preschoolers -- this might just be the carrier for you!!
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The photo below is a new carrier designed by BabyHawk, but it's more of a Soft Structured Carrier -- so now not only can you customized a BabyHawk, but if you don't like the straps, you can go with an "Oh, Snap" and have the beauty of a Hawk, with the ease of a SSC. Oh the options!!
BabyHawks can be used for front carries and back carries. All sizes -- newborn, infant, toddler and big kids! My daughter is 40 pounds and it is still comfortable -- but that will depend on your comfort level and strength.
**note** There are more "brands" of these carriers, which are called Mei Tai's -- so it's kinda like jeans, Mei Tai is the pair of jeans and BabyHawk is the brand, like Levi or Wrangler!
So, the same babywearing safety applies to these carriers!
1. Make sure you use the appropriate carrier for you and your child.
2. Make sure you learn and use the carrier properly.
3. Make sure baby is free to breathe when in the carrier. Face should be visible at all times!
 |
| Newborn carry with a BabyHawk, feet can also be "froggied" inside, with little ones, and head support can be folded down. |
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| An older baby carried on the front, with feet out, using head support. Straps can be tied in front or around back. So versatile! |
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| A very fun to look at :) back carry with an older baby. Notice how child's legs are NOT dangling. These carriers encourage a deep-seated position with encourages spine and hip health. |
_______
The photo below is a new carrier designed by BabyHawk, but it's more of a Soft Structured Carrier -- so now not only can you customized a BabyHawk, but if you don't like the straps, you can go with an "Oh, Snap" and have the beauty of a Hawk, with the ease of a SSC. Oh the options!!
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Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Giveaway at 50 followers!
The hot-of-the-press copy of The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding is still up for grabs... all we need is 38 more followers to this blog!!
Keep sharing!
Keep sharing!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
One of my least favourite things...
It's been a couple of days since I posted something... mostly because I couldn't muster up the energy to pretend that I was in a good enough mood to post something exciting and informational!
This summer has been hard, I won't lie. The last two days have been no different.
I dream of a white sandy beach somewhere, with lots of shade and lots of slushy yummy drinks! I dream of a week, to myself, without laundry, meals, cleaning -- I know, I know, I've got about 15 more years until that will happen, but a girl can dream, right?
So now, I move forward, put a smile on my face and try to stand about the last few days that have been filled with my least favourite things, and I'm not talking about laundry, meals and cleaning! :)
Hang in there Mamas, I'm sure some of you feel the same, some days! If I could give you a hug, through the screen I would, because you are a wonderful Mama and because everyone needs a hug!
This summer has been hard, I won't lie. The last two days have been no different.
I dream of a white sandy beach somewhere, with lots of shade and lots of slushy yummy drinks! I dream of a week, to myself, without laundry, meals, cleaning -- I know, I know, I've got about 15 more years until that will happen, but a girl can dream, right?
So now, I move forward, put a smile on my face and try to stand about the last few days that have been filled with my least favourite things, and I'm not talking about laundry, meals and cleaning! :)
Hang in there Mamas, I'm sure some of you feel the same, some days! If I could give you a hug, through the screen I would, because you are a wonderful Mama and because everyone needs a hug!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Where has the time gone?
I am having a hard time admitting that Javan will be in Grade 1 this year... how did 6 years go by so fast? I remember, like it was yesterday, being pregnant, giving birth, holding Javan in my arms for the first time, saying "What is that? Girls don't have penises!" (oops, that was the first thing he heard! :) A VERY short time later, or it seemed, Halia was on the way! She was born just before Christmas in 2005 and the fun of having 2 kids 19 months apart began. So much for spacing them out a little! Oh well, they loved eachother from the moment they laid eyes on eachother!
The first year of their lives flew by, filled with breastfeeding, babywearing, cosleeping, rocking, diapers, more dipaers, more diapers, big parenting decisions, hugs, hugs, more hugs, snuggles, kisses and so much fun!
The first year of their lives flew by, filled with breastfeeding, babywearing, cosleeping, rocking, diapers, more dipaers, more diapers, big parenting decisions, hugs, hugs, more hugs, snuggles, kisses and so much fun!
Javan @ 1 year old
Halia @ 1 year old -- man they look alike!
The next 5 years just seem to have happened... full of excitment, challenges, celebrations and changes.... through everything, we've made it... together. Now that the kids and I are on our own, it's fun to see how our relationships have blossomed. The kids are so loving, so encouraging and so affectionate -- it just makes my day to hear "I love you Mama!" or "I just want a hug!" I love them so much!
We went to the lake today and took a couple photos on my cell phone, the photos suck, but I often forget to take photos of me and the kids! :)
Oh and here's one for the wedding slideshow... my little nudist! :)
So, what's the point of this post? Cherish the days, the moments, the seconds -- they go by so fast, before you know it, you'll be enrolling them in school, buying them a car, going to their wedding, holding your first grandchild... it goes by so fast! Make every moment count!
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Babywearing Part 1 -- Ring Slings, one of my faves!
I enjoyed wearing my babies... and still wear Halia every once in a while if the situation presents itself! :)
Just a NOTE of caution -- this is a blog, not a safety website about babywearing. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE get help with a new carrier, from a experienced babywearer so that you make sure you are 1) using a carrier that is right for you and your baby & 2) using the carrier properly so it is safe and comfortable for you and your baby!
Babywearing has been around as long as babies have been around. I'm sure they didn't have strollers and travel systems "back in the day" -- They had fabric and they tied their babies onto their bodies... some of which didn't come off (really) for months and months. That's where babies belong, attached to their parents. Dr. Bergman of Kangaroo Mother Care would say that that baby's "habitat" is ON their mother. Premature or otherwise...
One of my fave carriers is the ring sling. It is SO versatile, SO adjustable (for mom and dad) and you can get GORGEOUS ring slings!
You can wear a newborm or older baby tummy to tummy.... like this...
Or, you can wear your newborn in a cradle carry -- this one is tricky sometimes and you want to make certain that these things are happening when using this carry...
If you want more info about ring slings or carries, my sweet friend Andrea sells them and teaches you how to use them. Check out EcoBaby Canada.
If a ring sling doesn't float your boat, not to worry, there are LOTS of other carriers to check out. I'll be posting about wraps, mei tai's, SSC's and pouches in the next couple of days!
Just a NOTE of caution -- this is a blog, not a safety website about babywearing. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE get help with a new carrier, from a experienced babywearer so that you make sure you are 1) using a carrier that is right for you and your baby & 2) using the carrier properly so it is safe and comfortable for you and your baby!
Babywearing has been around as long as babies have been around. I'm sure they didn't have strollers and travel systems "back in the day" -- They had fabric and they tied their babies onto their bodies... some of which didn't come off (really) for months and months. That's where babies belong, attached to their parents. Dr. Bergman of Kangaroo Mother Care would say that that baby's "habitat" is ON their mother. Premature or otherwise...
One of my fave carriers is the ring sling. It is SO versatile, SO adjustable (for mom and dad) and you can get GORGEOUS ring slings!
You can wear a newborm or older baby tummy to tummy.... like this...
Or on your hip, lke this...
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| This is my daughter and I, summer 2009 -- she weighed about 35 pounds, still comfy! |
- Baby's bum is lower than baby's head. In more of a seated postion, rather than lying down.
- Baby is breathing normally. Head is off of baby's chest.
- You can SEE baby's face and nose easily
- Baby's face is NOT covered by fabric, ensuring air flow for breathing.
- Get help if you aren't sure about this carry. It can be great, especially when breastfeeding using a sling.
If you want more info about ring slings or carries, my sweet friend Andrea sells them and teaches you how to use them. Check out EcoBaby Canada.
If a ring sling doesn't float your boat, not to worry, there are LOTS of other carriers to check out. I'll be posting about wraps, mei tai's, SSC's and pouches in the next couple of days!
Friday, August 13, 2010
Breastfeeding... my passion and first giveaway!
Breastfeeding is probably at the top of my PASSION list. Okay, it is at the top of my list!! Breastfeeding has been so fundamental to me, to my kids, to my journey as a Mama. It was a huge struggle with Javan, but still the foundation of our time together, after he was born and for 6 months. Halia was born ready to nurse, and is pretty committed to nursing for the rest of her life!
There are so many benefits to breastfeeding, for baby, for Mamas, for the community and for the world! Just to name a few:
One of my goals in the next year or two is to become a Board Certified Lactation Consultant. I want to be equipped to support women and couples with their breastfeeding issues and concerns. I LOVE supporting women with breastfeeding. I have enjoyed every moment of the last two years, leading a peer support group with La Leche League Canada. It is proven that women who participate in peer support groups for breastfeeding, breastfeed longer!
So, in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7, 2010) and the upcoming Global Breastfeeding Challenge (October 2nd, 2010) I am giving away a hot-off-the-press copy of the Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, 8th Edition. Once my "followers" reach 50, I'll do a random draw of all the followers! Follower and share!
There are so many benefits to breastfeeding, for baby, for Mamas, for the community and for the world! Just to name a few:
- Immunological benefits for baby - exclusively breastfed babies are admitted to hospital less, have less fevers, less bouts of gastrointestinal issues, less respiratory illness etc. etc. etc. :)
- Life-long benefits - breastfed babies has less issues with obesity, less cancer, less osteoarthritis, less chronic illness etc. etc.
- Mamas have lots of benefits -- (some) loose pregnancy weight sooner, they have less chance of developing breast cancer (really!), less occurances of postpartum depression etc.
- The community experiences benefits in that breastfed babies are healthier, less taxing on the healthcare system and families who work, have less sick days due to sick kids!
- The world benefits from breastfeeding because there is NO pollution & NO waste!
One of my goals in the next year or two is to become a Board Certified Lactation Consultant. I want to be equipped to support women and couples with their breastfeeding issues and concerns. I LOVE supporting women with breastfeeding. I have enjoyed every moment of the last two years, leading a peer support group with La Leche League Canada. It is proven that women who participate in peer support groups for breastfeeding, breastfeed longer!
So, in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7, 2010) and the upcoming Global Breastfeeding Challenge (October 2nd, 2010) I am giving away a hot-off-the-press copy of the Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, 8th Edition. Once my "followers" reach 50, I'll do a random draw of all the followers! Follower and share!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Summertime...
Summertime wouldn't normally fall into my "favourite things" category... but this summer has been an exception! First of all, it hasn't been super hot, so that's good! Secondly, we've had SO MUCH FUN doing stuff together, the kids and I, that it's definitely been a great summer!
We've spent time with friends in Lethbridge and Cranbrook. We've visited the kids' Canadian grandparents. We had many playdates at the park, the waterpark and the lakes around town. Today we went with Granny to the waterslides that we went to when I was a kid, down in Montana. It was GREAT!
This summer has been a time of change, adjustment and turmoil... but also a time of excitement, adaptation and new beginnings! Yay for summer 2010 -- and it's not quite over yet!
Enjoy these photos!
We've spent time with friends in Lethbridge and Cranbrook. We've visited the kids' Canadian grandparents. We had many playdates at the park, the waterpark and the lakes around town. Today we went with Granny to the waterslides that we went to when I was a kid, down in Montana. It was GREAT!
This summer has been a time of change, adjustment and turmoil... but also a time of excitement, adaptation and new beginnings! Yay for summer 2010 -- and it's not quite over yet!
Enjoy these photos!
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| Halia was "helping" organize the tubes! It was so cute! |
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| Now that's a stack of tubes! |
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
When things just work out!!
Earlier this year, all the fantastic ladies of Footprints Family Haven (a multi-fauceted family resource organization that we started in 2009) organized the BELLY, BIRTH & BABY EXPO. Our goal was two-fold... to raise some money for education and to provide a place for pregnant women/couples, new Mamas and growing families to find out about everything they have been wondering about!
The businesses and organizations that people said "Oh, I didn't know we had that around here!" Those were exactly the exhibitors that we wanted at the Expo! We did it, with over 50 exhibitors -- from prenatal classes, chiropractic practices, home-base businesses, crafters, doulas, and so much more! We did it so well that we are going to do it again! Yay! With over 500 people in attendance last time, we feel that it is the kind of event that people are looking for, hoping for and needing in the Lethbridge area!
Even though I am not living in Lethbridge right now, the women, couples and families in the area deserve the kind of support and resources that Footprints has to offer!
The next EXPO is on Saturday October 2nd, 2010 -- the same day that we will celebrate the International Breastfeeding Challenge -- what a perfect combination of events! We'll also have a babywearing fashion show and some Kindermusik! mini sessions.
We have already had a FANTASTIC repsonse to the Expo in October. We have lots of registrations and so many exhibitors that are so excited that we are doing another one! Yay!
The businesses and organizations that people said "Oh, I didn't know we had that around here!" Those were exactly the exhibitors that we wanted at the Expo! We did it, with over 50 exhibitors -- from prenatal classes, chiropractic practices, home-base businesses, crafters, doulas, and so much more! We did it so well that we are going to do it again! Yay! With over 500 people in attendance last time, we feel that it is the kind of event that people are looking for, hoping for and needing in the Lethbridge area!
Even though I am not living in Lethbridge right now, the women, couples and families in the area deserve the kind of support and resources that Footprints has to offer!
The next EXPO is on Saturday October 2nd, 2010 -- the same day that we will celebrate the International Breastfeeding Challenge -- what a perfect combination of events! We'll also have a babywearing fashion show and some Kindermusik! mini sessions.
We have already had a FANTASTIC repsonse to the Expo in October. We have lots of registrations and so many exhibitors that are so excited that we are doing another one! Yay!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Bellies... I love pregnant bellies!
There is just something about a pregnant belly that makes you smile!
I met with an expectant couple today, a couple that I have been working with since early on in their pregnancy. They are so cool, so fun to be around and so flexible -- today we met at a park, so the kids could play! They have awesome dreams for this birth and it's been fun to walk alongside them on this journey. As a doula, my job is so amazing, I get to listen, encourage, empower and help couples gather the information that they need to feel confident to go into this amazing experience with gumption (that is a word, right?) and confidence to have the birth they want! That looks different for every couple, it doesn't matter where on the spectrum the birth falls -- my support is there unconditionally. I love it! I hope they love feeling that unconditional support too.
I have learned a lot this past year as a doula. I know I am a hands-on learner -- the last year, attending births has proven that, even more. From my first birth, where I literally felt like a fish out of water, to my last birth in May 2010 where I felt like it finally all came together. I was more confident in my abilities, more focused on my clients, more able to just BE there, not always doing, not always talking (in fact, I talk less at births, believe it or not!) -- just being what they need to feel supported, emotionally, physically and informationally (hmm?).
As a birth doula I know I make a difference. I've seen it, I've lived it, I've heard about it... here are some stats about doulas that have been recorded...
Yay for pregnant women, Yay for pregnant couples, Yay for birth doulas! Yay for babies -- who make it all worthwhile!
I met with an expectant couple today, a couple that I have been working with since early on in their pregnancy. They are so cool, so fun to be around and so flexible -- today we met at a park, so the kids could play! They have awesome dreams for this birth and it's been fun to walk alongside them on this journey. As a doula, my job is so amazing, I get to listen, encourage, empower and help couples gather the information that they need to feel confident to go into this amazing experience with gumption (that is a word, right?) and confidence to have the birth they want! That looks different for every couple, it doesn't matter where on the spectrum the birth falls -- my support is there unconditionally. I love it! I hope they love feeling that unconditional support too.
I have learned a lot this past year as a doula. I know I am a hands-on learner -- the last year, attending births has proven that, even more. From my first birth, where I literally felt like a fish out of water, to my last birth in May 2010 where I felt like it finally all came together. I was more confident in my abilities, more focused on my clients, more able to just BE there, not always doing, not always talking (in fact, I talk less at births, believe it or not!) -- just being what they need to feel supported, emotionally, physically and informationally (hmm?).
As a birth doula I know I make a difference. I've seen it, I've lived it, I've heard about it... here are some stats about doulas that have been recorded...
- 50% reduction in the cesarean rate
- 25% shorter labor
- 60% reduction in epidural requests
- 40% reduction in oxytocin use
- 30% reduction in analgesia use
- 40% reduction in forceps delivery
Yay for pregnant women, Yay for pregnant couples, Yay for birth doulas! Yay for babies -- who make it all worthwhile!
Monday, August 9, 2010
What can we learn from Kangaroos?
So the kids and I are reading Magic Tree House books and they almost all have to do with an animal of somekind. The one we are reading right now is about Dingoes at Dinnertime -- which takes the kids in the story on an adventure in Austrailia.
Of course, Kangaroos live in Austrailia.
Kangaroos seem pretty amazing. Not only can they jump over a school bus with their "super feet" but they have an average of 3 babies per year... wow! They can have one "toddler" nursing, one in their pouch attached to a nipple and one in the fetus/embryo stage. They also have the ability to "pause" gestation depending on the needs of the other babies. Interesting.
Okay, so what can we learn about birth, breastfeeding and bonding from Kangaroos?
1. Kangaroos prepare for birth. They get their pouch ready, days before the birth, by cleaning it. They also encourage natural birth, by positioning themselves in a way that gravity does it job. *Their c-section rate is 0! :)* They also promote physiological third stage by staying active in the birthing process and encouraging the new baby to move to the pouch and breast. They clean up afterwards, preserving the memory and peacefulness of birth.
2. The new baby attaches to the breast/teet by about 3 minutes after birth. They are PERMANENTLY attached to the nipple (that's right ladies!) for the eqivalent of time that it takes for them to reach full gestation. They are born at about the same time as a 7 week human baby -- so they are VERY premature -- see photos below. Kangaroo's trust in the superiority of breastmilk. Kangaroo breastmilk changes, depending on the age of the baby nursing -- if a toddler is nursing, the fat content is higher, for example. Kangaroo babies are nourished at the breast for about 1 year, which appears to be about 1/10th of their life... if we take 80 years as the average human life span, that would be the equivalent of about 8 years for human babies... umm hmm!!
3. Bonding -- No wonder why Dr. Nils Bergman calls his organization Kangaroo Mother Care -- these Mamas know how to bond with their babies -- they prepare for their birth, trust in their bodies to nourish their babies and protect them in their pouch for approximately 6 months, before they even step foot into the "real world." NO ONE else holds them, cares for them or feeds them, for about 6 months. At that time they spend just a few minutes out of the pouch -- and after about 8 months they live out of the pouch, but still breastfeeding from the outside.
I was once told by an adoptive Mama that babies are only in utero for 9 months, because they outgrow the space, but that the next 9 months is just as important as the first 9 months -- I guess Kangaroos heard the same thing!
Why do we rush our kids so much? We get so excited to be having a baby and then we can't wait for the pregnancy to be over (I was there too!) and then we can't wait for their first roll over, first steps, first words...
I say we should enjoy the short about of time we have with these precious little ones -- the memories, the hugs, the kisses, the funny things they do -- the opportunity we have to mold them and bond with them -- as I put my 40 pound 4 1/2 year old on my back today in my Storch wrap today all of my "new Mama" feelings came back, and then I got thinking about Kangaroos!
What if we modelled our parenting after Kangaroos? Gentle birthing, extended breastfeeding and essential bonding...
How would that make our lives different? How would it make our kids' lives different?
Hmmm??
Of course, Kangaroos live in Austrailia.
Kangaroos seem pretty amazing. Not only can they jump over a school bus with their "super feet" but they have an average of 3 babies per year... wow! They can have one "toddler" nursing, one in their pouch attached to a nipple and one in the fetus/embryo stage. They also have the ability to "pause" gestation depending on the needs of the other babies. Interesting.
Okay, so what can we learn about birth, breastfeeding and bonding from Kangaroos?
1. Kangaroos prepare for birth. They get their pouch ready, days before the birth, by cleaning it. They also encourage natural birth, by positioning themselves in a way that gravity does it job. *Their c-section rate is 0! :)* They also promote physiological third stage by staying active in the birthing process and encouraging the new baby to move to the pouch and breast. They clean up afterwards, preserving the memory and peacefulness of birth.
2. The new baby attaches to the breast/teet by about 3 minutes after birth. They are PERMANENTLY attached to the nipple (that's right ladies!) for the eqivalent of time that it takes for them to reach full gestation. They are born at about the same time as a 7 week human baby -- so they are VERY premature -- see photos below. Kangaroo's trust in the superiority of breastmilk. Kangaroo breastmilk changes, depending on the age of the baby nursing -- if a toddler is nursing, the fat content is higher, for example. Kangaroo babies are nourished at the breast for about 1 year, which appears to be about 1/10th of their life... if we take 80 years as the average human life span, that would be the equivalent of about 8 years for human babies... umm hmm!!
3. Bonding -- No wonder why Dr. Nils Bergman calls his organization Kangaroo Mother Care -- these Mamas know how to bond with their babies -- they prepare for their birth, trust in their bodies to nourish their babies and protect them in their pouch for approximately 6 months, before they even step foot into the "real world." NO ONE else holds them, cares for them or feeds them, for about 6 months. At that time they spend just a few minutes out of the pouch -- and after about 8 months they live out of the pouch, but still breastfeeding from the outside.
I was once told by an adoptive Mama that babies are only in utero for 9 months, because they outgrow the space, but that the next 9 months is just as important as the first 9 months -- I guess Kangaroos heard the same thing!
Why do we rush our kids so much? We get so excited to be having a baby and then we can't wait for the pregnancy to be over (I was there too!) and then we can't wait for their first roll over, first steps, first words...
I say we should enjoy the short about of time we have with these precious little ones -- the memories, the hugs, the kisses, the funny things they do -- the opportunity we have to mold them and bond with them -- as I put my 40 pound 4 1/2 year old on my back today in my Storch wrap today all of my "new Mama" feelings came back, and then I got thinking about Kangaroos!
What if we modelled our parenting after Kangaroos? Gentle birthing, extended breastfeeding and essential bonding...
How would that make our lives different? How would it make our kids' lives different?
Hmmm??
Sunday, August 8, 2010
And then I don't feel so bad!
Life is full of curveballs and the unexpected. Some days I'm pretty sure I'm living a screenplay of some kind...
The last two months have been the complete opposite of how I thought I'd be spending my summer. I thought we'd be hanging out with our Lethbridge friends (big and little!) at the spraypark, hanging out, enjoying the lakes etc. Instead, life's curveball was that we would actually be in a totally new place, making new friends and having different kinds of fun. The kids seem to be much more adaptable than I do. They have enjoyed the new parks, the new lakes, the new adventures and the new friends. I too have enjoyed my new friends, however I miss my old friends dearly. Thank goodness for the telephone and facebook! :)
And then I don't feel so bad...
When I saw a rainbow in the sky tonight, after a long day, I remembered that life is full of promises... promises that life WILL be okay -- that life will be GREAT actually! I will be okay, the kids will be okay! We will make it!
Hmm... and then I remember how so many of my friends have been through so much this year. They have lost loved ones... they have had struggles of all kinds. K lost a beautiful little girl, who was born a few months too early, perfect, just not quite strong enough. A lived through a year without her babies, who were born WAY too early. Their strength gives me strength! Life is too short to not count the days... the moments...
the memories...
the laughter...
the tears...
the adventures...
the promises...
Rainbows, smiles from my kids, a hug from a friend, friends period, a roof over my head, food on the table!
And then I don't feel so bad!
The last two months have been the complete opposite of how I thought I'd be spending my summer. I thought we'd be hanging out with our Lethbridge friends (big and little!) at the spraypark, hanging out, enjoying the lakes etc. Instead, life's curveball was that we would actually be in a totally new place, making new friends and having different kinds of fun. The kids seem to be much more adaptable than I do. They have enjoyed the new parks, the new lakes, the new adventures and the new friends. I too have enjoyed my new friends, however I miss my old friends dearly. Thank goodness for the telephone and facebook! :)
And then I don't feel so bad...
When I saw a rainbow in the sky tonight, after a long day, I remembered that life is full of promises... promises that life WILL be okay -- that life will be GREAT actually! I will be okay, the kids will be okay! We will make it!
Hmm... and then I remember how so many of my friends have been through so much this year. They have lost loved ones... they have had struggles of all kinds. K lost a beautiful little girl, who was born a few months too early, perfect, just not quite strong enough. A lived through a year without her babies, who were born WAY too early. Their strength gives me strength! Life is too short to not count the days... the moments...
the memories...
the laughter...
the tears...
the adventures...
the promises...
Rainbows, smiles from my kids, a hug from a friend, friends period, a roof over my head, food on the table!
And then I don't feel so bad!
Inspiration...
This is the song that inspired the title of my new blog! I believe that writing things down, or talking them out helps the heart deal with what is going on... so here's a place for my heart to write down thoughts and struggles, ideas and news... about my favourite things!
In case you don't know, here is a list in no particular order (other than the first one!) of my favourite things!
1. Javan and Halia :)
2. Butterflies
3. Birth, babies, breastfeeding, babywearing (what else starts with B?)
4. Friends & Family
5. Scrapbooking
6. Great photos!
7. Rainbows (everything outside to be less specific!)
8. Healthy Food
Okay, so it's going to be an interesting blog, but here goes nothing!
In case you don't know, here is a list in no particular order (other than the first one!) of my favourite things!
1. Javan and Halia :)
2. Butterflies
3. Birth, babies, breastfeeding, babywearing (what else starts with B?)
4. Friends & Family
5. Scrapbooking
6. Great photos!
7. Rainbows (everything outside to be less specific!)
8. Healthy Food
Okay, so it's going to be an interesting blog, but here goes nothing!
My Favourite Things -- By Julie Andrews?
Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with string
These are a few of my favourite things!
Cream colored ponies and crisp apple strudels
Doorbells and slay bells and schnitzel with noodles
Wild gees that fly with the moon en their wings
These are a few of my favourite things!
Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes
Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eye lashes
Silver white winters that melt into spring
These are a few of my favourite things!
When the dog bites, when the bee stings
When I'm feeling sad, I simply remember
My favourite things!
And then I don't feel so bad!
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