HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

The holidays are over and I'm somewhat getting back to a normal schedule.....meaning free time to make posts~ I'm happy to announce my child who just turned 10 months is now eating some solids!! So, like I said previously....don't stress.....they eat when they are ready~ So far, he seems to like everything I give him.....I think something just clicked and he decided he wanted to eat like everyone else. Not that he needs it, at his 9 month appointment he weighed in at 24lbs!! My milk must be liquid gold.....maybe I could bottle it and sell it??? haha

As the New Year approaches (tomorrow), I'm reflecting back on how fast time flies.....I can hardly believe I don't really have a newborn anymore, but am happy to still be nursing and getting to share that special moment when he still feels like my baby! Breastfeeding has become my "crutch" as a mother and when I'm done nursing I ache to hold my baby again and nurse them. It's a bond that is hard to describe, but so incredibly strong and straight from God. Always remember to encourage new mothers to nurse and "keep at it".....it seems our society has made it way to easy for mothers to give up nursing and switch to bottle feeding. I know that some mothers are unable to and like myself, ache to be able to nurse their babies, so I'm never quick to judge anyone who is bottle feeding, but for those that are not in that situation.....we as a society need to gather around mothers and support their nursing efforts. Why is it that you never see a woman breastfeeding in movies??? I honestly cannot remember the last time I saw a mother nursing her baby in a movie. Absolutely crazy!

So next time you see a pregnant lady and feel you want to share advise....tell them how special your nursing experiences were...encourage them and tell them that no matter what, they will be incredible moms!

SUPER SALE!!!

In the spirit of Thanksgiving and Black Friday, I'm marking ALL of my products 25% off the already reduced prices!!! You will see savings of up to 60% off their MSRP prices!! Earth Mama Angel Baby is on sale, Proud Body is on Sale, and everything else on my website is on sale!! Head to www.blessingsfromthewomb.com, find the products you want and send me an email at blessingsfromthewomb@yahoo.com with the products you want to purchase and I'll send you an invoice reflecting the new discounted products!! Shipping will be discounted as well. If you are in the Anchorage or Mat-su area I will deliver for free too~ Please spread the word, as I'd love to move some inventory and pass along these awesome prices to some other mamas!!

Baby Food....

Where has time gone??? Busy is an understatement in my life right now~ I volunteer with the Miss America program in Alaska and run a local pageant the Miss Chugiak/Eagle River Scholarship Program. This year's pageant was November 15th, so from my last post until now, I've been busy almost every day with that. I know it's no excuse....I realy should make time for my blog. I promise to do better now that it's over. Yes, even with the holidays approaching, I will do better!!

Onto my topic......My youngest just turned 9 months and we've been dabbling with rice cereal and a few fruits. Ironically, he's just not interested in any way. He even gags when it's too thick and makes himself throw up. My first never really liked baby food either, until he was old enough to pick up pieces and feed himself. At 23lbs, I know he doesn't need it, but like to have something he can eat if I have to work. So, I'm off tomorrow to start making some of my own foods for him to see if I can get him to eat something new. I know most peditricians say you should start solids at 4 months, but I've always been very weary of starting that young. I guess out of fear of introducing allergies that may have otherwise been non existent had you started later. My peditrician always told me that it was fine to delay as long as the boys were healthy and growing. I'm not sure I have the correct answer, other than do what you feel is right as a mother. There are a lot of decisions that we, as mothers, have to make for our children and ultimately you have to do what you feel is right. Feeling pressured into feeding your kids to early, or guilt out of not feeding them early enough...really isn't fair to anyone. So, try not to worry......as I sit and try not to feel guilty that my child HATES food :)

Hypnobirthing

In my quest of finding the "perfect" childbirth class to take, I came across Hypnobirthing by Marie Mongan. There was an instructor in the Valley (who has since moved away) and it worked out that my husband and sister could attend the classes with me. I was instantly impressed with the book, materials, and basic philosiphy behind the method. The book was small and very easy to read. It had so much new information that was not present in many other pregnancy books. The book came with a practice CD, which is a vital part to the program. In Hypnobirthing, or any other similar method, you HAVE to practice your relaxation skills. Most people have to train their bodies to relax, especially under extreme circumstances. Naturally, this will come easier to some people and harder for others.....but everyone can learn.

I think the most important part of this program is understanding the "FEAR" section and how it can effect your birth. I find it ironic that we never hear about the side effects of harboring fear during childbirth and yet this book has an incredible chapter on the origins of fear and how to release it. Obviously, there is a lot to possibly fear, so don't feel guilty....we all do! In reality, that fear is healthy and we only need to learn how to surpress it, rather than get rid of it all together. That same fear, is God-given to help kick in our instincts to protect our babies when needed.

Studies have shown that Hypnobirthing can greatly reduce the length of labor. The philosophy behind that theory makes sense....the more you relax that faster your body is able to work. My first labor would have held up true to this theory.....5 hours after my first contraction my son was born. So those of you looking into this method......go for it and remember to practice!!! Release those fears, relax, and embrace the process your body will go through to bring you your beautiful baby!!

Earth Mama Angel Baby

I was first introduced to Earth Mama Angel Baby after my first son was born. I was attracted to how unique the products were to the pregnancyl & baby markets. There are very few products on the market that cater to the wide assortment that EMAB does and even fewer organic and natural products. My love for them was basically the beginning of my business. There was no where in Alaska to purchase these products, so it gave me a great idea to sell products at discount prices to provide other pregnant moms options.

Here are two of my favorites:




Both of these products are MUST HAVES after a normal vaginal birth. Who knows how many pregnancy books I've read, but in everyone of them they seem to skip over the part about after-birth soreness. I suppose it seems logical, but after my births I really had no idea how sore I would really be. These products helped sooth my stiches and sore bottom. The bottom balm is great for stitches, hemroids, tears or anything else that might be tender. It has a cooling effect and does not sting at all, but feels WONDERFUL!! The Bottom Spray is great for spraying after you go to the bathroom to relieve any soreness. It feels great and gives you that sense of CLEAN in an area you'd rather not touch for awhile!!

I'm currently selling both of these products in my store, so email me if you want to try them!! I have them on sale for 10% off the normal retail price and if you mention you saw them on this blog, I'll ship for free and sell you both for $23.00. They are currently $12.55 each

www.blessingsfromthewomb.com/pregnancy.htm

To Doula or Not to Doula

I often receive emails from women interested in a doula, but not sure they want to spend the money to have one. I'm sure knowing all the other expenses that occur during your pregnancy and birth, it's sometimes hard to justify spending more money.

Here's my advice.......A doula is truly a priceless gift for yourself and your baby, especially if you are feeling that you need that extra support from someone other than your husband/partner. It's hard to explain the emotional encouragement, support, and warmth that a doula can add to your birthing experience, but I can guarantee you that you will benefit greatly~ Doula's in Alaska usually charge an average of $400, but you can often find new doulas who are looking for births to complete their certification requirements, for little to no cost at all. Obviously, paying for a doula will give you more experience, but don't be convinced that paying more will get you more. I tell many of my clients that they really shouldn't base their decision on price, but on the connection they feel with someone. It's vital that you connect with whomever you choose as your doula, because they will be sharing one of the most intimate experiences in your life with you and the last thing you want to feel is uncomfortable. Interview and talk to several doulas, then pick your favorite!!

The good news is that doulas are working hard to get insurance companies to start taking a look at the value of women having doulas. We are hoping that within the next few years, insurance companies will start covering labor support staff. So, if you are using a doula, have your doula give you a receipt with the proper medical code to bill your insurance. Even if they don't cover it, the more requests they get the more likely they are to pay attention!! If they'd only recognize the decrease in costly interventions that having a doula can bring....then maybe they'd be more likely to cover us!! I'm excited for that day, not for my sake, but for the millions of women out there who would love to have a doula and benefit greatly from having one, but just can't afford one. Imagine a world where every women who wanted a doula could have one!!!! We might just see a drastic change in the outcomes of births in this country!!! (Smile!!)

Now for those of you that absolutely can't afford or find a doula for your birth.........There is a handy little book that is perfect for you and your support person to read and bring with you to your birth. It outlines what to do when, different positions to try, encouraging words, and other useful information that will help you........sort of like having a doula in your back pocket!! It's called The Labor Progress Handbook 2nd Edition..... it retails for about $30. Here is a link to purchase it:

http://dona.org/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=DB&Product_Code=B-TLPH&Category_Code=B2

Blessings to your beautiful births!!! No matter what you choose, remember that ultimately, you have the power to have a positive birth......it's all in the MIND!!! Your body is a powerful machine that is designed to have babies.....your brain is even more powerful in how you perceive and react to your birthing experience....think positive and positive will happen!!!

OUR OWN BREASTFEEDING VICE PRESIDENT....I AM PROUD!!

As my phone rang at 745am this morning, I had no idea the surprise I would find as they directed me to turn on my TV..........Sarah Palin, Alaska's own Governor will possibly be our next Vice President of the UNITED STATES!!!!! I cried with disbelieve, happiness, hope, & excitement! For those that don't know much about Sarah, she is an incredible woman!! Not only is she an incredible leader, but an even more amazing mother and wife!!! I've admired her from the moment I knew her and know most of you will too as you get to know her!

The best part of it all..........we may have a breast feeding Vice President!!! She recently gave birth to her son, Trig who was born with Down Syndrome (talk about even more amazing mom!!). She is a true testament to Pro Life. When she and her husband found out mid-way through her pregnancy that she would give birth to a child with difficulties, she held her head high and knew God's plan for his life. Even after knowing what the unexpected pregnancy would bring them, she remained strong and to this day professes what an incredible blessing Trig has been to their lives!!!

As women, we should be empowered at this incredible event for our country. Whether you are Democrat or Republican, pay attention to this woman.......She will do amazing things for this country and I am proud to stand behind her!!!!!!!

Woman Sings While In Labor.....AMAZING!!

How it Started~

Growing up, I was surrounded by peaceful natural births and had only experienced homebirths. My sister even became a midwife~ Although, the thought of childbirth in general terrified me and was the last thing I wanted to "experience". I had developed a strong FEAR (notice the capital letters). It wasn't until I became pregnant with my first child that I immediately felt that fear turn into peace. It's almost as if God granted me the ability to enjoy my pregnancy without fear and lifted that heavy cloud that had consumed me for so many years. I researched my options and talked it over with my husband, who did not agree with homebirths. I wasn't quite sure what I wanted, so agreed on a hospital birth with a midwife. Next, I fell in love with the Hypnobirthing technique and decided to take the course and start practicing. Hypnobirthing relies heavily on releasing all fears and becoming completely relaxed in all aspects of my pregnancy and childbirth. I have always been very fearful of hospitals and struggled with the idea of how I could labor comfortably in an atmosphere that I was completely uncomfortable. So, at week 35 I changed my mind and decided to have a birth center birth with our same midwife in her birth center. My husband agreed that he would be nervous either way, but wanted me to be comfortable and safe.

Six days past my due date, I woke early in the morning with a strong contraction and went to my exercise ball to sit and relax. Almost as soon as I sat, I heard a loud pop and knew it wasn't the ball.....my water had broke. Contractions started shortly after that and within an hour the contractions were 2-3 minutes apart. How could this be?? Weren't they suppose to start gradually?? I could feel the fear setting in as we started the hour drive to our birth center. We stopped at my parent's half way and didn't stay as long as planned....things were happening much too quickly and I was getting nervous. My sister drove me the rest of the way, which helped me let go of my fear and just go with what was happening. I started focusing on each contraction rather than worrying about all the "what if's" and didn't make a sound, just breathed. Soon, my body changed and I knew something was different. I looked to see where we were (still about 15 minutes away) and told my sister "I think I'm pushing". She assured me I would know and told me not to worry that it was all part of the process. With the next contraction, I was uncontrollably pushing and told her to step on it. We surprised the birth center as we ran in ready to go with nothing set up.....they quickly ran around making me more nervous just watching them. And soon, we met our beautiful son. The whole process was fast, furious, and absolutely breath taking.

I felt so blessed to have experienced a peaceful and natural birth. But, immediately began to think back to how many people I encountered while I was pregnant that had to share their "horror" story with me. Some of my funniest moments were the expressions I received when telling people my plan to birth naturally in a birth center. Why is our society's view on birth so distorted?? Did I get lucky, or is there something behind this? I soon realized that our country has an epidemic of bad birth stories and high rates of intervention. Thus, my motivation for being pro active in changing this view point in our society. If not for the babies, but also for the mothers who strongly desire a birthing experience to cherish not dwell on.

I hope this blog can help those looking for confirmation, assurance, and confidence in their desired birthing experience. So that next time you encounter one of those "stories", you can smile then turn and remind yourself that this is NOT how your experience will be!! You have the power to choose your experience by the way you perceive it, so that even if the worst occurs, you can still feel empowered and positive knowing that you've just experienced one of the most life changing events you'll ever experience and can be proud to be a woman!!

What am I doing here??

I think I asked myself that same question as I was creating my new blog. To give you the simple answer, it's to hear myself think! The past 4 years have brought me a wealth of knowledge that I never thought I would ever have (nor want) about childbirth and pregnancy. I find myself "sharing" my opinions and experiences on a weekly basis, so decided there has to be a larger audience to reach. Thus, brings me back to my infamous, soon to be famous, BLOG~ I hope you enjoy reading my posts as much as I enjoy writing them. I've always enjoyed writing and am excited to start this journey! Welcome to my world!