By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Stephanie_Davis_Anderson]Stephanie Davis Anderson
Mothers everywhere can understand and relate to the title of this article. The thought of taking a break to recoup and relax can cause feelings of profound guilt and trigger an internal struggle that seems to go against our very nature as a mother. In addition, despite the fact that we need this time for ourselves, we may struggle with feeling as if we need permission, need to explain ourselves to others, or view the desire for a mommy break as a bad reflection of our mothering skills.
If you want to release yourself from these negative feelings, please consider the following three suggestions:
Rename it "Personal Time". There is a reason this article refers to our need for a mommy break as personal time - because that's what it is! When we use the words, "taking a break", it conjures up thoughts of, quickie lunches, potty runs, or deep breathing on the patio from sheer exasperation. Thinking of it as just a break also means the guilt will naturally follow. However, calling it personal time implies a period of time where constructive things will happen of a personal nature. Say this new phrase out loud to yourself several times and you will feel the difference in even how you view your alone time. Over time as you work to change your view, you will notice a calmer, less conflicted self, along with reduced guilt that will lead to your putting more time and effort into planning the best use of your precious time.
Schedule a Specific Time Each Week. Time loves to get away from us and if we take a wait-and-see attitude toward our special time, it will never happen. With all the family demands placed on us as women and mothers, personal time will be the first thing to go if we are not proactive about protecting it. An easy way to ensure an available time is to put it on your family calendar each week. The actual amount of time needed each week will vary per person, just remember to be flexible and have a backup day for any unforeseen family scheduling issues. Setting aside a specific time each week will help you manage the guilt of taking personal time, will keep you from feeling as if you are stealing valuable time that belongs to your family, and will force you to view any time you take as something precious and valuable.
Plan Productive Activities. Keep in mind that the purpose of your time is to refresh yourself, not just to get away from it all. Although, that will mean different things to each person, make sure it is always something enjoyable to you. The activity you choose should leave you feeling re-energized and ready to take on your world - whether it's a trip to the salon, writing in your journal, a long quiet drive alone, or a trip to the gym.
Scheduling time for yourself need not be an exercise in guilt or lead to an internal struggle about your worth and skill as a mother. A refreshed mother is an exceptional mother, and over time as you learn to enjoy your personal time without remorse, you will begin to notice a more patient, positive, and happier self emerge with immediate benefits to your family.
Stephanie Anderson is a stay-at-home mom turned entrepreneur and owner of the The UnCluttered Mother at [http://www.unclutteredmother.com]http://www.unclutteredmother.com. The company blog offers everyday solutions to a mother's needs with tips on staying organized, managing a household, and offers free daily planning, home inventory, and goal planning worksheets.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Managing-Motherhood:-Three-Ways-to-Lose-the-Guilt-About-Taking-Personal-Time&id=6642105] Managing Motherhood: Three Ways to Lose the Guilt About Taking Personal Time
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
Breastfeeding Nutrition Benefits
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joel_Gray]Joel Gray
Congratulations, you are pregnant!
You must be so excited and a little scared at the same time. You have a million things to think about, from names to diapers and babysitters when you need one. You also have health issues to think about, like whether you will breast feed your child or start them strictly on a formula when they are born. The choice is completely up to you; however, research has shown that breast milk is far superior to formula.
Breast milk is full of healthy nutrients and vitamins that will keep your baby healthy and strong for years to come. The antibodies in the milk help support and increase the vitality of the baby's support system. They are able to fight off colds and flues faster and more effectively than if they did not have breast milk.
It is even thought among researchers and the medical community that breast milk will help deter the disease SIDS and may even eliminate your child's chances of getting it. You should also keep your child on their back while they are napping, even if they roll on their side or are at the age that they can flip over in their crib.
Another part of the breast milk, Colostrum, is very important to your baby. This element of breast milk helps protect the baby's immune system. It is extremely high in antibodies and nutrients that can keep the baby healthier, even when they have older siblings.
For your baby, breast milk will be easier for their stomach to digest than formula is. Because their stomachs are so small at birth and can only hold so much, the breasts only manufacture what they can consume without harming themselves. As they grow and their stomachs fill out, the production of breast milk lengthens to meet the baby's needs.
Breast milk inherently carries many antibodies and has been shown to reduce the risk factors of many diseases in babies and women alike. While some of these diseases are the average run of the mill cold or flu, others are more serious, like Diabetes, Asthma, and obesity among others. In women, it helps prevent cancers of the breast and ovaries as well as depression after the baby is born. Breast feeding also provides a way for mother and child to bond in a way that they will never be able to bond with anyone else.
It is a very tender, gentle, and personal moment for the mother and baby, so take it slowly. Your baby probably will not latch on the first time that you try to breast feed. Do not get frustrated or upset with yourself. This will take time and practice for both of you to get used to and practice. Therefore, you would be wise to have a bottle standing by, just in case the first feeding does not go so well.
Do not blame yourself or the baby. You just need more practice. So, take your baby into your bedroom, close the door, and relax. That will aid you in breastfeeding and will help the baby relax into it as well. Then, try it again. Before long, you both will fall into a routine without any problems.
Raising strong, active and healthy children in today's fast-paced and fast food environment gets harder and harder with each passing day. To get tips and ideas about [http://www.concerningkids.com]child fitness, child health and child nutrition and learn how to keep your children healthy, active and happy check out [http://www.concerningkids.com]Concerning Kids. At Concerning Kids, you will discover fun things to do that will help your kids live longer, live stronger and lead a more active, fun and healthy lifestyle.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Breastfeeding-Nutrition-Benefits&id=6606969] Breastfeeding Nutrition Benefits
Congratulations, you are pregnant!
You must be so excited and a little scared at the same time. You have a million things to think about, from names to diapers and babysitters when you need one. You also have health issues to think about, like whether you will breast feed your child or start them strictly on a formula when they are born. The choice is completely up to you; however, research has shown that breast milk is far superior to formula.
Breast milk is full of healthy nutrients and vitamins that will keep your baby healthy and strong for years to come. The antibodies in the milk help support and increase the vitality of the baby's support system. They are able to fight off colds and flues faster and more effectively than if they did not have breast milk.
It is even thought among researchers and the medical community that breast milk will help deter the disease SIDS and may even eliminate your child's chances of getting it. You should also keep your child on their back while they are napping, even if they roll on their side or are at the age that they can flip over in their crib.
Another part of the breast milk, Colostrum, is very important to your baby. This element of breast milk helps protect the baby's immune system. It is extremely high in antibodies and nutrients that can keep the baby healthier, even when they have older siblings.
For your baby, breast milk will be easier for their stomach to digest than formula is. Because their stomachs are so small at birth and can only hold so much, the breasts only manufacture what they can consume without harming themselves. As they grow and their stomachs fill out, the production of breast milk lengthens to meet the baby's needs.
Breast milk inherently carries many antibodies and has been shown to reduce the risk factors of many diseases in babies and women alike. While some of these diseases are the average run of the mill cold or flu, others are more serious, like Diabetes, Asthma, and obesity among others. In women, it helps prevent cancers of the breast and ovaries as well as depression after the baby is born. Breast feeding also provides a way for mother and child to bond in a way that they will never be able to bond with anyone else.
It is a very tender, gentle, and personal moment for the mother and baby, so take it slowly. Your baby probably will not latch on the first time that you try to breast feed. Do not get frustrated or upset with yourself. This will take time and practice for both of you to get used to and practice. Therefore, you would be wise to have a bottle standing by, just in case the first feeding does not go so well.
Do not blame yourself or the baby. You just need more practice. So, take your baby into your bedroom, close the door, and relax. That will aid you in breastfeeding and will help the baby relax into it as well. Then, try it again. Before long, you both will fall into a routine without any problems.
Raising strong, active and healthy children in today's fast-paced and fast food environment gets harder and harder with each passing day. To get tips and ideas about [http://www.concerningkids.com]child fitness, child health and child nutrition and learn how to keep your children healthy, active and happy check out [http://www.concerningkids.com]Concerning Kids. At Concerning Kids, you will discover fun things to do that will help your kids live longer, live stronger and lead a more active, fun and healthy lifestyle.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Breastfeeding-Nutrition-Benefits&id=6606969] Breastfeeding Nutrition Benefits
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Managing the New Baby at Home
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Sandy_Rose]Sandy Rose
Get to know your body. Your body has just gone through a transformation in its most extreme form; give it the rest it deserves. Whenever possible sit back and put your feet up. You will notice that you will delay getting up which is a good thing in this situation. By postponing all non essential items on your to do list and taking a break, you will do your life good. In addition you will bounce back that much quicker if you just put your feet up.
Feeding Time=Resting Time. When you are feeding your new baby take the time to make yourself comfortable. Bring a drink, go ahead and grab that book you've been wanting to read, and stay put. The time to call all your annoying relatives and catch up on work projects is not now. Your baby will gain by having a calm and restful mother.
Make your life easier. Some new mothers think that working harder is working better. That is not the case in child rearing. Children need a calm and restful mother much more than an overworked and resentful one. Now is not the time to worry about the planet. Eat off plastic, use disposables, do anything that will make your life easier. New mothers swear by their vacuum cleaners. The new models of rel=nofollow [http://baglesscanistervacuumcleaner.com/]bagless canister vacuum cleaner will amaze you with their prowess. Some models have some really cool gadgets for your home.
Enlist Help. When friends or relatives call you to congratulate don't be shy. If anyone offers babysitting help, say yes! All practical suggestions should be accepted. If grandma wants to take a feeding, give her a bright smile, and say "yes, thank you"! Any neighbors offering to do the grocery shopping offer your sweetest smile again. You will be grateful for any offers instead of resenting all the hard work. Also, why not share in the celebration? People want to feel connected now.
Giving birth to a baby is a huge change for you and your spouse. But if you look for ways to make your life easier you will embrace the change rather than resent it. When accepting help always do so graciously, and with a smile. Remember to thank the people in your life who make it easier. This time, the new baby stage, is transient. In a couple of weeks this will be all of memory.
I love sharing ideas on how to manage a home with small children. You can read more parenting tips and advice about your [http://baglesscanistervacuumcleaner.com/?page_id=23]bagless canister vacuum cleaner on my website.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Managing-the-New-Baby-at-Home&id=6647922] Managing the New Baby at Home
Get to know your body. Your body has just gone through a transformation in its most extreme form; give it the rest it deserves. Whenever possible sit back and put your feet up. You will notice that you will delay getting up which is a good thing in this situation. By postponing all non essential items on your to do list and taking a break, you will do your life good. In addition you will bounce back that much quicker if you just put your feet up.
Feeding Time=Resting Time. When you are feeding your new baby take the time to make yourself comfortable. Bring a drink, go ahead and grab that book you've been wanting to read, and stay put. The time to call all your annoying relatives and catch up on work projects is not now. Your baby will gain by having a calm and restful mother.
Make your life easier. Some new mothers think that working harder is working better. That is not the case in child rearing. Children need a calm and restful mother much more than an overworked and resentful one. Now is not the time to worry about the planet. Eat off plastic, use disposables, do anything that will make your life easier. New mothers swear by their vacuum cleaners. The new models of rel=nofollow [http://baglesscanistervacuumcleaner.com/]bagless canister vacuum cleaner will amaze you with their prowess. Some models have some really cool gadgets for your home.
Enlist Help. When friends or relatives call you to congratulate don't be shy. If anyone offers babysitting help, say yes! All practical suggestions should be accepted. If grandma wants to take a feeding, give her a bright smile, and say "yes, thank you"! Any neighbors offering to do the grocery shopping offer your sweetest smile again. You will be grateful for any offers instead of resenting all the hard work. Also, why not share in the celebration? People want to feel connected now.
Giving birth to a baby is a huge change for you and your spouse. But if you look for ways to make your life easier you will embrace the change rather than resent it. When accepting help always do so graciously, and with a smile. Remember to thank the people in your life who make it easier. This time, the new baby stage, is transient. In a couple of weeks this will be all of memory.
I love sharing ideas on how to manage a home with small children. You can read more parenting tips and advice about your [http://baglesscanistervacuumcleaner.com/?page_id=23]bagless canister vacuum cleaner on my website.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Managing-the-New-Baby-at-Home&id=6647922] Managing the New Baby at Home
Thursday, November 24, 2011
What to Eat When Breast Feeding
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Louise_Goldstein]Louise Goldstein
All mothers want to give their baby's the very best they can and as they say you are what you eat. But does this speak for your baby as well when you are breast feeding? There is a lot of advice available but sifting through the good from the bad quite a challenge. Read on to find out what foods you should and should not be eating when breast feeding.
Some mothers believe they should be drinking copious amounts of water in order to provide an adequate supply of milk. In actual fact this is simply not the case. But you should be trying to drink more than 8 glasses a day which equates to about 1.2 litres. If you feel thirsty have a drink but you don't need to be obsessive. As long as you drink an adequate amount to feed you thirst your body is more than capable of maintaining fluid levels. However, it is not unusual to feel very thirsty while feeding because a hormone is released which is called oxytocin.
Foods to Eat
The food.gov.uk site provides a great guide on what you should be eating. The 5 a day rule still applies. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables with the usual carbohydrates such as pasta, potatoes and rice to give you energy. Fibre is always important for a healthy digestive system these include, wholegrain pasta, bread, rice and lentils. Protein is also important, you should try to eat fish at least twice a week, salmon and mackerel are good sources of oily fish. And don't forget calcium which you can get from cheese, milk and yoghurt.
Foods to Avoid
Although oily fish is good for many experts agree that you should not eat any more than two portions a week while you are breast feeding. Another warning includes fish such as shark, marlin and swordfish. This is because these fish have been known to carry pollutants which can be passed through your milk. You should avoid these while you are feeding.
Vitamin Supplements
You should be taking 10 micrograms of vitamin D every day while you are breast feeding. All other nutrition should be adequately provided by following a healthy diet. Recently health departments have been reporting a resurgence of rickets and other vitamin D related deficiencies.
Caffeine
Caffeine can affect your baby but as long as you only drink one or two cups a day it should be fine. One thing to consider is that caffeine can be found in some soft drinks so make sure you check before you drink as it could affect your babies sleeping habits.
Alcohol
Alcohol on occasion and as long as it is only one should be fine. In the past people used to say brown beer actually helps milk production but this has been found to be incorrect.
Summary
Obviously when your body is providing for your baby it puts you under additional strain. You burn more calories and you need more energy. Make sure you eat enough and often to maintain your energy. It is not unusual to have a higher than normal appetite during this period and it is important to eat as often as you need. [http://www.sweetiepie.me.uk/5-in-1-pregnancy-nursing-breastfeeding-flathead-baby-sitting-support-pillow-228-p.asp]Breast Feeding Pillow from SweetiePie.me.uk
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-to-Eat-When-Breast-Feeding&id=6655638] What to Eat When Breast Feeding
All mothers want to give their baby's the very best they can and as they say you are what you eat. But does this speak for your baby as well when you are breast feeding? There is a lot of advice available but sifting through the good from the bad quite a challenge. Read on to find out what foods you should and should not be eating when breast feeding.
Some mothers believe they should be drinking copious amounts of water in order to provide an adequate supply of milk. In actual fact this is simply not the case. But you should be trying to drink more than 8 glasses a day which equates to about 1.2 litres. If you feel thirsty have a drink but you don't need to be obsessive. As long as you drink an adequate amount to feed you thirst your body is more than capable of maintaining fluid levels. However, it is not unusual to feel very thirsty while feeding because a hormone is released which is called oxytocin.
Foods to Eat
The food.gov.uk site provides a great guide on what you should be eating. The 5 a day rule still applies. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables with the usual carbohydrates such as pasta, potatoes and rice to give you energy. Fibre is always important for a healthy digestive system these include, wholegrain pasta, bread, rice and lentils. Protein is also important, you should try to eat fish at least twice a week, salmon and mackerel are good sources of oily fish. And don't forget calcium which you can get from cheese, milk and yoghurt.
Foods to Avoid
Although oily fish is good for many experts agree that you should not eat any more than two portions a week while you are breast feeding. Another warning includes fish such as shark, marlin and swordfish. This is because these fish have been known to carry pollutants which can be passed through your milk. You should avoid these while you are feeding.
Vitamin Supplements
You should be taking 10 micrograms of vitamin D every day while you are breast feeding. All other nutrition should be adequately provided by following a healthy diet. Recently health departments have been reporting a resurgence of rickets and other vitamin D related deficiencies.
Caffeine
Caffeine can affect your baby but as long as you only drink one or two cups a day it should be fine. One thing to consider is that caffeine can be found in some soft drinks so make sure you check before you drink as it could affect your babies sleeping habits.
Alcohol
Alcohol on occasion and as long as it is only one should be fine. In the past people used to say brown beer actually helps milk production but this has been found to be incorrect.
Summary
Obviously when your body is providing for your baby it puts you under additional strain. You burn more calories and you need more energy. Make sure you eat enough and often to maintain your energy. It is not unusual to have a higher than normal appetite during this period and it is important to eat as often as you need. [http://www.sweetiepie.me.uk/5-in-1-pregnancy-nursing-breastfeeding-flathead-baby-sitting-support-pillow-228-p.asp]Breast Feeding Pillow from SweetiePie.me.uk
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-to-Eat-When-Breast-Feeding&id=6655638] What to Eat When Breast Feeding
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
New Mom Mantras - Tips to Help the New Mom In Those First Few Months
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Claudine_Wolk]Claudine Wolk
My sister-in-law had a baby last week. Being with a "new-new" mom always reminds me how very difficult being a new mom is. At first, there is euphoria, of course, "I have a baby, WOO HOO!" and then "The baby is out of my belly, double WOO HOO!" Then, somehow, the euphoria fades as quickly as the pain medication and a new realization kicks in, "I... Have... A... Baby" and all that that realization entails. Namely, sleep will be a thing of the past, breastfeeding needs to be mastered, laundry reproduces at exponential levels especially when the lights go out, there is longer an excuse to wear stretchy pants, and finally, my touchie hurts!
For all those new moms out there and I mean new moms of a first, second, third, or even if you are a Duggar with a 19th baby, here's a quick reminder list of the "bringing new baby home tips" for you plucked right from my playbook.
Manage Your Visitors: There is only one type of visitor a new mom should allow past her front door - the one who comes bearing food, cleaning products, or a car to take the new baby's siblings somewhere far, far away. If a visitor shows up "to hang," show up at the front door in your robe, with your boob perilously close to flopping out, while holding a stinky load of laundry. Your visitor will quickly start to inch backward saying, "Maybe I've caught you at a bad time, I'll catch you later." Mission accomplished!
Take It Slow: This is the time to take it easy - real easy - no cleaning, no cooking, no projects. Just be. Take good care of yourself and insist that the others in your life feed you and take care of you so you can feed and care the baby and yourself. Keep your feet up. That's it. Nothing else. Your one & only job is to care of your baby.
Never Pass Up a Nap: Nothing is more important than a nap right now - not your house, not your shower, not your laundry, not your work, and definitely not "dancing with the stars" - nothing. Leave it all behind and nap while you can. Build up your strength with naps and you will feel better physically and emotionally. Nap, nap, nap.
Connect with other Folks: Don't forget to keep in touch with folks outside of your new hive and get some vitamin D (the sun). It is very important to feel connected to the outside world even if it is just one person. Find a friend or neighbor who you can talk to about the progress your little guy is making with breastfeeding or sleep or simply discuss your overall demeanor. Connect and stay part of the world, even in a small way, every day if you can.
Ask for the help you need: If you start to feel shaky and you need some help whether it be a meal, folding a load of laundry, some company, or something simple like your favorite cup of coffee, ask for it! The folks around you are just waiting for you to ask for help. I think sometimes Moms are afraid to ask for help for fear those around her will think she can't handle things or maybe she feels if she asks for help it will look like she's complaining about motherhood. Listen to me ladies, all moms know how hard those first few months are and were grateful for any help they got. Experienced moms want the opportunity to pay it forward. Give them that opportunity. It will make you both feel good.
Do you have anything to add to my list for new moms? What have I missed? Any advice that you would give to your fellow new moms? Let me know.
Claudine Wolk, Author of It Gets Easier! And Other Lies We Tell New Mothers.
Visit me at my blog [http://help4newmoms.com/wordpress]http://help4newmoms.com/wordpress.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?New-Mom-Mantras---Tips-to-Help-the-New-Mom-In-Those-First-Few-Months&id=3151724] New Mom Mantras - Tips to Help the New Mom In Those First Few Months
My sister-in-law had a baby last week. Being with a "new-new" mom always reminds me how very difficult being a new mom is. At first, there is euphoria, of course, "I have a baby, WOO HOO!" and then "The baby is out of my belly, double WOO HOO!" Then, somehow, the euphoria fades as quickly as the pain medication and a new realization kicks in, "I... Have... A... Baby" and all that that realization entails. Namely, sleep will be a thing of the past, breastfeeding needs to be mastered, laundry reproduces at exponential levels especially when the lights go out, there is longer an excuse to wear stretchy pants, and finally, my touchie hurts!
For all those new moms out there and I mean new moms of a first, second, third, or even if you are a Duggar with a 19th baby, here's a quick reminder list of the "bringing new baby home tips" for you plucked right from my playbook.
Manage Your Visitors: There is only one type of visitor a new mom should allow past her front door - the one who comes bearing food, cleaning products, or a car to take the new baby's siblings somewhere far, far away. If a visitor shows up "to hang," show up at the front door in your robe, with your boob perilously close to flopping out, while holding a stinky load of laundry. Your visitor will quickly start to inch backward saying, "Maybe I've caught you at a bad time, I'll catch you later." Mission accomplished!
Take It Slow: This is the time to take it easy - real easy - no cleaning, no cooking, no projects. Just be. Take good care of yourself and insist that the others in your life feed you and take care of you so you can feed and care the baby and yourself. Keep your feet up. That's it. Nothing else. Your one & only job is to care of your baby.
Never Pass Up a Nap: Nothing is more important than a nap right now - not your house, not your shower, not your laundry, not your work, and definitely not "dancing with the stars" - nothing. Leave it all behind and nap while you can. Build up your strength with naps and you will feel better physically and emotionally. Nap, nap, nap.
Connect with other Folks: Don't forget to keep in touch with folks outside of your new hive and get some vitamin D (the sun). It is very important to feel connected to the outside world even if it is just one person. Find a friend or neighbor who you can talk to about the progress your little guy is making with breastfeeding or sleep or simply discuss your overall demeanor. Connect and stay part of the world, even in a small way, every day if you can.
Ask for the help you need: If you start to feel shaky and you need some help whether it be a meal, folding a load of laundry, some company, or something simple like your favorite cup of coffee, ask for it! The folks around you are just waiting for you to ask for help. I think sometimes Moms are afraid to ask for help for fear those around her will think she can't handle things or maybe she feels if she asks for help it will look like she's complaining about motherhood. Listen to me ladies, all moms know how hard those first few months are and were grateful for any help they got. Experienced moms want the opportunity to pay it forward. Give them that opportunity. It will make you both feel good.
Do you have anything to add to my list for new moms? What have I missed? Any advice that you would give to your fellow new moms? Let me know.
Claudine Wolk, Author of It Gets Easier! And Other Lies We Tell New Mothers.
Visit me at my blog [http://help4newmoms.com/wordpress]http://help4newmoms.com/wordpress.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?New-Mom-Mantras---Tips-to-Help-the-New-Mom-In-Those-First-Few-Months&id=3151724] New Mom Mantras - Tips to Help the New Mom In Those First Few Months
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Breastfeeding - Techniques For Getting Your Baby to Latch On
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jamela_T_Smith]Jamela T Smith
As a breastfeeding mother you are special because you can make the food that is uniquely perfect for your baby. Invest the time in yourself and your baby, for your health and for the bond that will last a lifetime.
Breast milk has disease-fighting antibodies that can help protect babies from several types of illnesses like:
Ear Infections
- Respirtory infections
- Meningitis
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Asthma and a host of other diseases
- It can also help cut down on any reflux and constipation
issues associated with digestion.
Remember breastfeeding is a learned technique, it requires patience and practice. For some women, the first three months can be frustrating and uncomfortable. The good news is that it will get easier, and support for breastfeeding mothers is growing.
To begin breastfeeding gather all the information available for a helpful start. Also try feeding your baby at the first sign of hunger to prevent frustration for the both of you.
There are basic positions for successful breastfeeding: Football hold, Cradle Hold, Side-laying, and Cross-Over Hold. These position can be awkward at first, so experiment with them until you find the one that work best for you and your baby.
Football Hold
This breastfeeding position is great for mothers who have pain in their abdomen, such as after a caesarian, because it gets the baby off that area. Like the cross cradle hold, the football hold allows the mother to guide the baby's latch more easily.
Cradle Hold
So the first and most important thing to remember is to keep your babies belly facing your own. This should keep their spine in a straight line. You can check this in a mirror or get your partner or a friend to help you.
Secondly there is no need to hold the babies head in position. Once you have the baby attached and settled into the feed there is really no need for your other hand to be involved in holding either the baby or your breast in any position. The arm on the side which you are feeding from should have the baby's head nestled in the elbow and the forearm should then go along the baby's back.
Side Laying
The goal is to keep your back and hips in a straight line. With your baby facing you, draw him close and cradle his head with the hand of your bottom arm. Or, cradle his head with your top arm, tucking your bottom arm under your head, out of the way. If your baby needs to be higher and closer to your breast, place a small pillow or folded receiving blanket under his head. He shouldn't strain to reach your nipple, and you shouldn't bend down toward him
Note: You may want to nurse lying down if you're recovering from a cesarean or difficult delivery, sitting up is uncomfortable, or you're nursing in bed at night or during the day
Cross Over
Also known as the cross-cradle hold, this position differs from the cradle hold in that you don't support your baby's head with the crook of your arm. Instead, your arms switch roles. If you're nursing from your right breast, use your left hand and arm to hold your baby. Rotate her body so her chest and tummy are directly facing you. With your thumb and fingers behind her head and below her ears, guide her mouth to your breast.
Note: This hold may work well for small babies and for infants who have trouble latching on.
For more tips on breastfeeding or other newborn related issues visit: http://www.newborngrunting.com
Jamela T. Smith
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Breastfeeding---Techniques-For-Getting-Your-Baby-to-Latch-On&id=6654238] Breastfeeding - Techniques For Getting Your Baby to Latch On
As a breastfeeding mother you are special because you can make the food that is uniquely perfect for your baby. Invest the time in yourself and your baby, for your health and for the bond that will last a lifetime.
Breast milk has disease-fighting antibodies that can help protect babies from several types of illnesses like:
Ear Infections
- Respirtory infections
- Meningitis
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Asthma and a host of other diseases
- It can also help cut down on any reflux and constipation
issues associated with digestion.
Remember breastfeeding is a learned technique, it requires patience and practice. For some women, the first three months can be frustrating and uncomfortable. The good news is that it will get easier, and support for breastfeeding mothers is growing.
To begin breastfeeding gather all the information available for a helpful start. Also try feeding your baby at the first sign of hunger to prevent frustration for the both of you.
There are basic positions for successful breastfeeding: Football hold, Cradle Hold, Side-laying, and Cross-Over Hold. These position can be awkward at first, so experiment with them until you find the one that work best for you and your baby.
Football Hold
This breastfeeding position is great for mothers who have pain in their abdomen, such as after a caesarian, because it gets the baby off that area. Like the cross cradle hold, the football hold allows the mother to guide the baby's latch more easily.
Cradle Hold
So the first and most important thing to remember is to keep your babies belly facing your own. This should keep their spine in a straight line. You can check this in a mirror or get your partner or a friend to help you.
Secondly there is no need to hold the babies head in position. Once you have the baby attached and settled into the feed there is really no need for your other hand to be involved in holding either the baby or your breast in any position. The arm on the side which you are feeding from should have the baby's head nestled in the elbow and the forearm should then go along the baby's back.
Side Laying
The goal is to keep your back and hips in a straight line. With your baby facing you, draw him close and cradle his head with the hand of your bottom arm. Or, cradle his head with your top arm, tucking your bottom arm under your head, out of the way. If your baby needs to be higher and closer to your breast, place a small pillow or folded receiving blanket under his head. He shouldn't strain to reach your nipple, and you shouldn't bend down toward him
Note: You may want to nurse lying down if you're recovering from a cesarean or difficult delivery, sitting up is uncomfortable, or you're nursing in bed at night or during the day
Cross Over
Also known as the cross-cradle hold, this position differs from the cradle hold in that you don't support your baby's head with the crook of your arm. Instead, your arms switch roles. If you're nursing from your right breast, use your left hand and arm to hold your baby. Rotate her body so her chest and tummy are directly facing you. With your thumb and fingers behind her head and below her ears, guide her mouth to your breast.
Note: This hold may work well for small babies and for infants who have trouble latching on.
For more tips on breastfeeding or other newborn related issues visit: http://www.newborngrunting.com
Jamela T. Smith
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Breastfeeding---Techniques-For-Getting-Your-Baby-to-Latch-On&id=6654238] Breastfeeding - Techniques For Getting Your Baby to Latch On
Friday, November 18, 2011
Connecting to Yourself in the Newborn Period
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Stephanie_Wellington,_M.D.]Stephanie Wellington, M.D.
Moms and dads of newborns, term or premature, often find little time for themselves. Moms take care of their baby, their family, and the home. In our society, a dad is quickly back to work to provide for his family. Over time this results in fatigue, overwhelm, and resentment among many other negative emotions. A typical conversation is that there just isn't enough hours in a day.
Carving out 'Me Time' in the day requires creativity. It means thinking about 'Me Time' differently.
Shifting the purpose of 'Me Time' from Doing to Being means there is always enough time to replenish ourselves each and every day. Creativity is the key. As a working mom, nursing my baby, I welcomed the time I spent pumping while at work. It provided me a time to disconnect from the outside world and tap into my peace and highest self. For 20 minutes every few hours I replenished myself. I was able to let go of that longing to be with her when I knew it wasn't possible. I felt good about myself. I knew I was taking care of my baby even though I could not be physically with her.
In practice:
POSTPARTUM Path: You crave some time alone or as a couple. Life after baby is quite different from before the arrival of your baby. Although you expected this, you were not completely sure how it would feel living it. Connecting back to yourself is key. You are wondering how to find time to do that when things feel unsettled? We all have times in our day when our thoughts wander, usually to the to-do list. Take back these few moments and make them meaningful to you. Use this time to connect to your feelings of joy and happiness about your new family. Connect to what you want to feel and anchor that feeling with affirmations so it is available for you when things go crazy. Breathe.
NEWBORN Experience: The separation from your baby is difficult. With each trip to the hospital you recognize your baby is improving, getting better, and will soon be on his or her way home. So how do you handle the pangs of separation until he or she is in your arms? Connect to self. Recall the feelings you shared when your baby lived just under your heart. Remember that warm, glowing feeling that filled your heart. Anchor that feeling and connect to it each time you are at your son or daughter's bedside. Let these feeling work for you, flow through you, and support you until your baby is discharged to your arms. Allow the positive energy of warm emotions flow through you to assist in the healing process.
NICU Journey: The path home is challenging, and some days are more difficult than others. Life refuses to stop to allow you time to deal with having a premature or sick newborn, because life believes you can handle it. The "why" is a question that may never be answered. You are called to tap into your strongest, highest self to be a part of the medical team caring for your son or daughter. You do have the strength to not just survive, but thrive even when it seems unbearable. In the NICU journey time in silence and gratitude provides access to your greatest self. It nourishes and strengthens you to face each day, particularly on those days when you'd rather not.
There are times in our lives when it serves us to just BE and leave the doing to someone else.
Dr. Stephanie Wellington is a physician in the NICU, certified professional life coach, and founder of Postpartum Neonatal Coaching.com. She leads workshops for postpartum moms, dads, and families, and lectures on staff development in the NICU. For more information about speaking, workshops, and coaching programs, visit http://www.postpartumneonatalcoaching.com and sign-up for Embrace Life Newsletter and receive your Free copy of 5 Steps to Raising Your Energy Level in the NICU and Beyond. Contact Dr. Wellington at [mailto:Stephanie@postpartumneonatalcoaching.com]Stephanie@postpartumneonatalcoaching.com.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Connecting-to-Yourself-in-the-Newborn-Period&id=6655001] Connecting to Yourself in the Newborn Period
Moms and dads of newborns, term or premature, often find little time for themselves. Moms take care of their baby, their family, and the home. In our society, a dad is quickly back to work to provide for his family. Over time this results in fatigue, overwhelm, and resentment among many other negative emotions. A typical conversation is that there just isn't enough hours in a day.
Carving out 'Me Time' in the day requires creativity. It means thinking about 'Me Time' differently.
Shifting the purpose of 'Me Time' from Doing to Being means there is always enough time to replenish ourselves each and every day. Creativity is the key. As a working mom, nursing my baby, I welcomed the time I spent pumping while at work. It provided me a time to disconnect from the outside world and tap into my peace and highest self. For 20 minutes every few hours I replenished myself. I was able to let go of that longing to be with her when I knew it wasn't possible. I felt good about myself. I knew I was taking care of my baby even though I could not be physically with her.
In practice:
POSTPARTUM Path: You crave some time alone or as a couple. Life after baby is quite different from before the arrival of your baby. Although you expected this, you were not completely sure how it would feel living it. Connecting back to yourself is key. You are wondering how to find time to do that when things feel unsettled? We all have times in our day when our thoughts wander, usually to the to-do list. Take back these few moments and make them meaningful to you. Use this time to connect to your feelings of joy and happiness about your new family. Connect to what you want to feel and anchor that feeling with affirmations so it is available for you when things go crazy. Breathe.
NEWBORN Experience: The separation from your baby is difficult. With each trip to the hospital you recognize your baby is improving, getting better, and will soon be on his or her way home. So how do you handle the pangs of separation until he or she is in your arms? Connect to self. Recall the feelings you shared when your baby lived just under your heart. Remember that warm, glowing feeling that filled your heart. Anchor that feeling and connect to it each time you are at your son or daughter's bedside. Let these feeling work for you, flow through you, and support you until your baby is discharged to your arms. Allow the positive energy of warm emotions flow through you to assist in the healing process.
NICU Journey: The path home is challenging, and some days are more difficult than others. Life refuses to stop to allow you time to deal with having a premature or sick newborn, because life believes you can handle it. The "why" is a question that may never be answered. You are called to tap into your strongest, highest self to be a part of the medical team caring for your son or daughter. You do have the strength to not just survive, but thrive even when it seems unbearable. In the NICU journey time in silence and gratitude provides access to your greatest self. It nourishes and strengthens you to face each day, particularly on those days when you'd rather not.
There are times in our lives when it serves us to just BE and leave the doing to someone else.
Dr. Stephanie Wellington is a physician in the NICU, certified professional life coach, and founder of Postpartum Neonatal Coaching.com. She leads workshops for postpartum moms, dads, and families, and lectures on staff development in the NICU. For more information about speaking, workshops, and coaching programs, visit http://www.postpartumneonatalcoaching.com and sign-up for Embrace Life Newsletter and receive your Free copy of 5 Steps to Raising Your Energy Level in the NICU and Beyond. Contact Dr. Wellington at [mailto:Stephanie@postpartumneonatalcoaching.com]Stephanie@postpartumneonatalcoaching.com.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Connecting-to-Yourself-in-the-Newborn-Period&id=6655001] Connecting to Yourself in the Newborn Period
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
How Often To Breastfeed a Newborn
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Maggie_H_Day]Maggie H Day
Your newborn should eat often and for as long as possible. The best thing for your baby in the first few days of life is breast milk so feedings will be at least eight to twelve times a day.Nursing Eight to twelve times a day works out to every two hours or so and the clock starts at the beginning of the feeding. This will make it feel like you are constantly nursing at first.
The substance that your baby will be consuming when nursing for the first few days is called colostrum. It is actually not breast milk yet. Colostrum is packed full of immune boosters and proteins essential for the transition from the safety of the womb into the real world.
When your milk starts to come in, feedings will become longer at first. Your baby will begin to develop more of an appetite and it is important to allow the feeding to go as long as necessary. The milk that comes down at the very end of the feeding is called the hind milk and there are essential fats in this milk that you don't want to deprave the baby of. At this point your feedings will still be at least thirty minutes at a time and as frequent as eight to twelve times a day.
You will know your baby is getting enough to eat by looking at the diapers. If you are getting a wet diaper after feedings, your baby is eating enough. There is a chart that your doctor might give you before you take your baby home that shows how many wet diapers to expect during the first few months. It is important to keep a good count of the wet and dirty diapers so you know that your baby is eating properly.
A common concern with nursing mothers is that the baby is not getting enough to eat. Breast milk digests much faster than formula so breastfed babies tend to get hungry faster than formula fed babies. Digestion causes an empty belly and an empty belly in a newborn means that the hunger is back. This is why a nursing mother could think that she is not producing enough milk to satisfy her baby. The time for concern is when your baby has a dry diaper for an extended period of time.
Your baby will tell you when the hunger strikes and you will learn very quickly what the signs are. Sucking or even an open mouth could mean it is feeding time again. You should not wait until the cry starts because that may be a sign you waited too long.
Maggie H. Day writes articles related to [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing pajamas and [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing gowns We are a maternity and nursing clothing website specializing in soft, comfortable, stylish clothing and accessories for pregnant and nursing women. Visit our website to shop for yourself or find gifts for a friend!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-Often-To-Breastfeed-a-Newborn&id=6661697] How Often To Breastfeed a Newborn
Your newborn should eat often and for as long as possible. The best thing for your baby in the first few days of life is breast milk so feedings will be at least eight to twelve times a day.Nursing Eight to twelve times a day works out to every two hours or so and the clock starts at the beginning of the feeding. This will make it feel like you are constantly nursing at first.
The substance that your baby will be consuming when nursing for the first few days is called colostrum. It is actually not breast milk yet. Colostrum is packed full of immune boosters and proteins essential for the transition from the safety of the womb into the real world.
When your milk starts to come in, feedings will become longer at first. Your baby will begin to develop more of an appetite and it is important to allow the feeding to go as long as necessary. The milk that comes down at the very end of the feeding is called the hind milk and there are essential fats in this milk that you don't want to deprave the baby of. At this point your feedings will still be at least thirty minutes at a time and as frequent as eight to twelve times a day.
You will know your baby is getting enough to eat by looking at the diapers. If you are getting a wet diaper after feedings, your baby is eating enough. There is a chart that your doctor might give you before you take your baby home that shows how many wet diapers to expect during the first few months. It is important to keep a good count of the wet and dirty diapers so you know that your baby is eating properly.
A common concern with nursing mothers is that the baby is not getting enough to eat. Breast milk digests much faster than formula so breastfed babies tend to get hungry faster than formula fed babies. Digestion causes an empty belly and an empty belly in a newborn means that the hunger is back. This is why a nursing mother could think that she is not producing enough milk to satisfy her baby. The time for concern is when your baby has a dry diaper for an extended period of time.
Your baby will tell you when the hunger strikes and you will learn very quickly what the signs are. Sucking or even an open mouth could mean it is feeding time again. You should not wait until the cry starts because that may be a sign you waited too long.
Maggie H. Day writes articles related to [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing pajamas and [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing gowns We are a maternity and nursing clothing website specializing in soft, comfortable, stylish clothing and accessories for pregnant and nursing women. Visit our website to shop for yourself or find gifts for a friend!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-Often-To-Breastfeed-a-Newborn&id=6661697] How Often To Breastfeed a Newborn
Monday, November 14, 2011
Ways to Avoid the Problem Mother-In-Law Trap
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Susan_Leigh]Susan Leigh
When we first meet our boyfriend or girlfriend's family we are often on our best behaviour, nervous and keen to please, wanting to demonstrate how good, kind and caring we are. Often we will work hard to create a good impression, smile and tolerate all manner of situations because we love our new partner and want everything to go well.
When the relationship becomes more permanent we may rue the day we were so compliant and accommodating. All those little foibles and ways that their mother has are now going to become a more regular feature of our lives.
Let's look at some ways to avoid the problem mother-in-law trap:
- Start the marriage as you mean to go on. If you agree to go every Sunday to their house for lunch and then suddenly decide that you don't want to go anymore it can appear a little awkward or difficult. Start by deciding what you feel will be acceptable as a longterm commitment. Discuss and agree what is a reasonable arrangement with your partner in advance. Remember, not everything has to be done as a couple.
- Be tolerant. There are bound to be things about your family that are less than appealing to your partner. Give and take has to apply in many situations once a couple commit to living together. There can be an awareness of the commitments that are less pleasant but have to be done out of duty, as part of being in a loving relationship. Compromise helps to oil the wheels and show respect for each other's family.
- Give your mother-in-law space to show herself as she is. If she is being unreasonable, smile and say nothing. Remember that if someone criticizes our family we will usually leap to their defence, but if other people say nothing we may be more inclined to criticize their behaviour ourselves.
- Present a united front with our partner, their son or daughter. If we discuss our partner's faults with our family, every time they meet those criticisms are going to be in everyone's mind. Try to be circumspect with revealing the detail of arguments and problems. You may get over them quickly, but other people, especially mothers, often keep those comments in mind.
- Pick your rows. Some things are not worth falling out over. Gain a few gold marks by agreeing to do some things that matter to the mother-in-law. A little effort may succeed in winning her onside and it may be a worthwhile gesture in the longterm.
- Is she really so bad? It is very rare that one person is bad and another good in a disagreement. Often problems occur because two people have different ways of looking at a situation. Consider things from her perspective and try to appreciate how she may feel about what is happening. The insights may help to understand her point of view a little better.
We marry our partner but their family are often part of the package. It can be a sensible move to spend a little time nurturing the relationship with our mother-in-law. She often has the potential to be a friend or important ally throughout the marriage. Going out for an occasional lunch or inviting her round for coffee can be time usefully invested for the future of the relationship.
Susan Leigh is a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist who works with stressed individuals to promote confidence and self belief, with couples in crisis to improve communications and understanding and with business clients to support the health and motivation levels of individuals and teams.
Further help, advice and articles are available.
For more information see http://www.lifestyletherapy.net
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Ways-to-Avoid-the-Problem-Mother-In-Law-Trap&id=6555764] Ways to Avoid the Problem Mother-In-Law Trap
When we first meet our boyfriend or girlfriend's family we are often on our best behaviour, nervous and keen to please, wanting to demonstrate how good, kind and caring we are. Often we will work hard to create a good impression, smile and tolerate all manner of situations because we love our new partner and want everything to go well.
When the relationship becomes more permanent we may rue the day we were so compliant and accommodating. All those little foibles and ways that their mother has are now going to become a more regular feature of our lives.
Let's look at some ways to avoid the problem mother-in-law trap:
- Start the marriage as you mean to go on. If you agree to go every Sunday to their house for lunch and then suddenly decide that you don't want to go anymore it can appear a little awkward or difficult. Start by deciding what you feel will be acceptable as a longterm commitment. Discuss and agree what is a reasonable arrangement with your partner in advance. Remember, not everything has to be done as a couple.
- Be tolerant. There are bound to be things about your family that are less than appealing to your partner. Give and take has to apply in many situations once a couple commit to living together. There can be an awareness of the commitments that are less pleasant but have to be done out of duty, as part of being in a loving relationship. Compromise helps to oil the wheels and show respect for each other's family.
- Give your mother-in-law space to show herself as she is. If she is being unreasonable, smile and say nothing. Remember that if someone criticizes our family we will usually leap to their defence, but if other people say nothing we may be more inclined to criticize their behaviour ourselves.
- Present a united front with our partner, their son or daughter. If we discuss our partner's faults with our family, every time they meet those criticisms are going to be in everyone's mind. Try to be circumspect with revealing the detail of arguments and problems. You may get over them quickly, but other people, especially mothers, often keep those comments in mind.
- Pick your rows. Some things are not worth falling out over. Gain a few gold marks by agreeing to do some things that matter to the mother-in-law. A little effort may succeed in winning her onside and it may be a worthwhile gesture in the longterm.
- Is she really so bad? It is very rare that one person is bad and another good in a disagreement. Often problems occur because two people have different ways of looking at a situation. Consider things from her perspective and try to appreciate how she may feel about what is happening. The insights may help to understand her point of view a little better.
We marry our partner but their family are often part of the package. It can be a sensible move to spend a little time nurturing the relationship with our mother-in-law. She often has the potential to be a friend or important ally throughout the marriage. Going out for an occasional lunch or inviting her round for coffee can be time usefully invested for the future of the relationship.
Susan Leigh is a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist who works with stressed individuals to promote confidence and self belief, with couples in crisis to improve communications and understanding and with business clients to support the health and motivation levels of individuals and teams.
Further help, advice and articles are available.
For more information see http://www.lifestyletherapy.net
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Ways-to-Avoid-the-Problem-Mother-In-Law-Trap&id=6555764] Ways to Avoid the Problem Mother-In-Law Trap
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Sample Menu for Nursing Moms
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Maggie_H_Day]Maggie H Day
It is great to have a sample menu that includes healthy meals for while you are breastfeeding. Menu planning should include at least three meals and two or three snacks per day. There should be very little to no empty calories and very little to no sugar filled snacks.
There are so many nutrients and vitamins that are necessary to your diet that there is no room left for snacks that do not have a nutritious value. Breastfeeding women need more servings of calcium, iron, protein, and good fat. The American Academy of Pediatrics says breastfeeding women should have five servings of calcium rich foods per day.
Sample meals should not be eaten every day exactly the same. It is suggested to replace each food or meal every day with a new item that has similar properties. For example, if your sample meal says eat an apple with peanut butter for a snack, that snack consists of an apple which is a complex carbohydrate and peanut butter which is full of protein and polyunsaturated fat or good fat. The next day you could replace that same snack idea with different items such as a bowl of protein packed cottage cheese with berries of your choice. This way you are getting similar nutrition out of different foods.
Here is a sample menu that includes one day of meals. For breakfast, have a bowl of sugar-free, whole grain cereal such as Autumn Wheat by Kashi with a handful of blueberries on top and milk. If your newborn has a sensitive tummy to you drinking cow's milk, replace it with rice milk. Your morning snack can be a banana with peanut butter or cottage cheese. For lunch, try a turkey burger with avocado on a whole grain bun. Add a small green salad on the side with some cheese and sesame seeds. A good afternoon snack is yogurt and grapes. For dinner, have one piece of grilled chicken breast with your favorite rub or marinade. Add some roasted sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli as sides.
Make sure to drink a lot of water throughout the day. Invest in a good water bottle that you like in a few fun colors and keep it filled regularly. This will entice you to have it next to you at all times.
Maggie H. Day writes articles related to [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing pajamas and [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing gowns We are a maternity and nursing clothing website specializing in soft, comfortable, stylish clothing and accessories for pregnant and nursing women. Visit our website to shop for yourself or find gifts for a friend!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Sample-Menu-for-Nursing-Moms&id=6664082] Sample Menu for Nursing Moms
It is great to have a sample menu that includes healthy meals for while you are breastfeeding. Menu planning should include at least three meals and two or three snacks per day. There should be very little to no empty calories and very little to no sugar filled snacks.
There are so many nutrients and vitamins that are necessary to your diet that there is no room left for snacks that do not have a nutritious value. Breastfeeding women need more servings of calcium, iron, protein, and good fat. The American Academy of Pediatrics says breastfeeding women should have five servings of calcium rich foods per day.
Sample meals should not be eaten every day exactly the same. It is suggested to replace each food or meal every day with a new item that has similar properties. For example, if your sample meal says eat an apple with peanut butter for a snack, that snack consists of an apple which is a complex carbohydrate and peanut butter which is full of protein and polyunsaturated fat or good fat. The next day you could replace that same snack idea with different items such as a bowl of protein packed cottage cheese with berries of your choice. This way you are getting similar nutrition out of different foods.
Here is a sample menu that includes one day of meals. For breakfast, have a bowl of sugar-free, whole grain cereal such as Autumn Wheat by Kashi with a handful of blueberries on top and milk. If your newborn has a sensitive tummy to you drinking cow's milk, replace it with rice milk. Your morning snack can be a banana with peanut butter or cottage cheese. For lunch, try a turkey burger with avocado on a whole grain bun. Add a small green salad on the side with some cheese and sesame seeds. A good afternoon snack is yogurt and grapes. For dinner, have one piece of grilled chicken breast with your favorite rub or marinade. Add some roasted sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli as sides.
Make sure to drink a lot of water throughout the day. Invest in a good water bottle that you like in a few fun colors and keep it filled regularly. This will entice you to have it next to you at all times.
Maggie H. Day writes articles related to [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing pajamas and [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing gowns We are a maternity and nursing clothing website specializing in soft, comfortable, stylish clothing and accessories for pregnant and nursing women. Visit our website to shop for yourself or find gifts for a friend!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Sample-Menu-for-Nursing-Moms&id=6664082] Sample Menu for Nursing Moms
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Tips and Tricks in Balancing Career and Motherhood
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Brenna_Welker]Brenna Welker
Have you ever wondered why mothers are important in this world? Have you tried to ponder what life would be without them? Apart from fathers, our mothers are vital to our lives because of the special role they play in our lives. They are important not only because of their special qualities, but because of the roles they play in our lives to make us responsible and worthy persons.
With the tough economic conditions we have lately, it is already a fact that fathers are not the only ones who work for the family, but mothers are well. Due to the aim of providing quality life and education to children, mothers become career women. Balancing career and motherhood can be tricky and challenging for women because of the huge demands and hurdles they have to undertake to become successful in both worlds. Could you imagine how they manage to hurdle the difficult job of being a mother to their children, wife to her husband and employee at the same time? For sure, they have the most challenging and difficult jobs in this world and no amount of talents and organizational skills can match their abilities to balance these things. Without the right emotional stability and sense of judgment, for sure they would be struggling to maintain their sanity, but they manage to survive all these things.
Below are tips on how to juggle motherhood with your career:
Be sure to schedule all your household chores and tasks efficiently. Make a schedule on when you do the laundry, house cleaning, cooking and other things. Be sure to leave a vacant time for your rest or for any down time. Be sure to stick to your daily schedule.
Be sure to have time to bond with your husband. Take time out or cook dinner for him. You can also have a night out or do something special at home.
Be sure to have quality time to bond with your children. Allocate some time to help them out with their assignments and projects. Remember that assisting them with school work is one way of bonding with them despite the limited schedule you have at home and at work.
If you cannot do some difficult household chores yourself, you can always seek the assistance of your neighbors or parents. They can help you out with the task.
If you do not want to be disturbed while doing all the chores, be sure to keep the children busy by giving them other works to do like emptying the trash bin or dishwasher.
Despite the busy and hectic schedules you have, be sure to have quality time for yourself. Treat yourself to a spa, shopping or parlor to release all the stress and tension you have inside. Take yourself out on a manicure or pedicure. It is one way of relaxing yourself and removing the stress inside.
Take time out with your girl friends. Spending quality time with them is not only fun, but therapeutic as well.
You should bear in mind that the key to a balanced and harmonious life is balancing your work, relationship and household chores.
Brenna Welker enjoys writing for Crazy Baby Clothing Company which sells [http://www.crazybabyclothing.com/punk-baby-clothes.html]punk baby clothes and [http://www.crazybabyclothing.com/camo-baby-clothes-c-26.html]camo baby clothes as well as a host of additional products.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-and-Tricks-in-Balancing-Career-and-Motherhood&id=6663730] Tips and Tricks in Balancing Career and Motherhood
Have you ever wondered why mothers are important in this world? Have you tried to ponder what life would be without them? Apart from fathers, our mothers are vital to our lives because of the special role they play in our lives. They are important not only because of their special qualities, but because of the roles they play in our lives to make us responsible and worthy persons.
With the tough economic conditions we have lately, it is already a fact that fathers are not the only ones who work for the family, but mothers are well. Due to the aim of providing quality life and education to children, mothers become career women. Balancing career and motherhood can be tricky and challenging for women because of the huge demands and hurdles they have to undertake to become successful in both worlds. Could you imagine how they manage to hurdle the difficult job of being a mother to their children, wife to her husband and employee at the same time? For sure, they have the most challenging and difficult jobs in this world and no amount of talents and organizational skills can match their abilities to balance these things. Without the right emotional stability and sense of judgment, for sure they would be struggling to maintain their sanity, but they manage to survive all these things.
Below are tips on how to juggle motherhood with your career:
Be sure to schedule all your household chores and tasks efficiently. Make a schedule on when you do the laundry, house cleaning, cooking and other things. Be sure to leave a vacant time for your rest or for any down time. Be sure to stick to your daily schedule.
Be sure to have time to bond with your husband. Take time out or cook dinner for him. You can also have a night out or do something special at home.
Be sure to have quality time to bond with your children. Allocate some time to help them out with their assignments and projects. Remember that assisting them with school work is one way of bonding with them despite the limited schedule you have at home and at work.
If you cannot do some difficult household chores yourself, you can always seek the assistance of your neighbors or parents. They can help you out with the task.
If you do not want to be disturbed while doing all the chores, be sure to keep the children busy by giving them other works to do like emptying the trash bin or dishwasher.
Despite the busy and hectic schedules you have, be sure to have quality time for yourself. Treat yourself to a spa, shopping or parlor to release all the stress and tension you have inside. Take yourself out on a manicure or pedicure. It is one way of relaxing yourself and removing the stress inside.
Take time out with your girl friends. Spending quality time with them is not only fun, but therapeutic as well.
You should bear in mind that the key to a balanced and harmonious life is balancing your work, relationship and household chores.
Brenna Welker enjoys writing for Crazy Baby Clothing Company which sells [http://www.crazybabyclothing.com/punk-baby-clothes.html]punk baby clothes and [http://www.crazybabyclothing.com/camo-baby-clothes-c-26.html]camo baby clothes as well as a host of additional products.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-and-Tricks-in-Balancing-Career-and-Motherhood&id=6663730] Tips and Tricks in Balancing Career and Motherhood
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Words of Inspiration for New Moms
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Maggie_H_Day]Maggie H Day
New moms have so much to look forward to and so much to learn about how to adapt to a new role that it is sometimes hard to live in the present. The new role of Mom comes very easy to some women and not so easy to others, but as moms, we are all being faced with the same challenges and being given the same opportunities to grow.
A new role of any kind presents a challenge and provides new excitements. When that role is being a new mom, the challenges seem less daunting because the reward is so great. Seeing your child smile for the first time or take first steps, or say a word you have been trying to teach for months is so rewarding that the fact that you are more tired than ever and have a hundred things added to your to do list do not even matter.
Before you were a mom, you may have had some career goals and strived for your personal best at the local charity 5K race. When you become a mother, the things you look forward to the most become all about your child. The typical selfish goals of doing well in that race or getting the promotion turn into looking forward to your baby rolling over and crawling. Long term you may be looking forward to your son running track or your daughter playing field hockey.
It is nice to have all these things to look forward to. It is nice to want good things for your children. Remember to try to live in the present though. Enjoy the time you have with your child as an infant and toddler. The time goes by fast and it is easy to miss it if you are too busy looking ahead.
Maggie H. Day writes articles related to [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing pajamas and [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing gowns. We are a maternity and nursing clothing website specializing in soft, comfortable, stylish clothing and accessories for pregnant and nursing women. Visit our website to shop for yourself or find gifts for a friend!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Words-of-Inspiration-for-New-Moms&id=6664726] Words of Inspiration for New Moms
New moms have so much to look forward to and so much to learn about how to adapt to a new role that it is sometimes hard to live in the present. The new role of Mom comes very easy to some women and not so easy to others, but as moms, we are all being faced with the same challenges and being given the same opportunities to grow.
A new role of any kind presents a challenge and provides new excitements. When that role is being a new mom, the challenges seem less daunting because the reward is so great. Seeing your child smile for the first time or take first steps, or say a word you have been trying to teach for months is so rewarding that the fact that you are more tired than ever and have a hundred things added to your to do list do not even matter.
Before you were a mom, you may have had some career goals and strived for your personal best at the local charity 5K race. When you become a mother, the things you look forward to the most become all about your child. The typical selfish goals of doing well in that race or getting the promotion turn into looking forward to your baby rolling over and crawling. Long term you may be looking forward to your son running track or your daughter playing field hockey.
It is nice to have all these things to look forward to. It is nice to want good things for your children. Remember to try to live in the present though. Enjoy the time you have with your child as an infant and toddler. The time goes by fast and it is easy to miss it if you are too busy looking ahead.
Maggie H. Day writes articles related to [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing pajamas and [http://www.NursingPjs.com]nursing gowns. We are a maternity and nursing clothing website specializing in soft, comfortable, stylish clothing and accessories for pregnant and nursing women. Visit our website to shop for yourself or find gifts for a friend!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Words-of-Inspiration-for-New-Moms&id=6664726] Words of Inspiration for New Moms
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Britax Marathon 70 Child Car Seat
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mary_J_MacDonald]Mary J MacDonald
We all want to keep our children safe when we are driving and the Britax Marathon 70 convertible car seat will do a great job at that. When I had my first child I was a little blinkered in my thinking and initially used an old borrowed car seat from a friend. If I'm honest, I'll admit it didn't even sit in the car right.But hey, we all think it couldn't happen to us right? Well, I only woke up when I watched a TV program one night and saw how a child had been killed when his Mom had an accident and the seat she used, although it was in OK condition, actually had some fundamental flaws that meant it shouldn't have been used and should have been thrown away. That very next morning, I went out and bought a brand new child car seat and have not looked back since. There are a few different brands but Britax is a very high quality make that uses a lot of modern technology in its production process these days. An example of this is the SafeCell technology. This helps because it is designed to compress in a crash and that lowers the center of gravity and thereby counteracts the normal forward propelling motion that sends someone forwards in an accident. Here are some more of the features of the Britax Marathon 70 child car seat:
The technologies involved in the Britax Marathon 70 car seat are designed to work in such a way that the chances of serious injury to a child sitting in one of these seats is massively reduced.
Features for the Britax Marathon 70:
- the child is kept in the vehicle
- crash forces are diverted away from your child
- the momentum of your childs body will be slowed down
- movement of your child will be minimized which in turn,
- helps to protect your childs brain and spinal cord.
Installing the Britax Marathon 70 is pretty easy, although it's not something you would want to have to do to frequently, as the seat itself is quite large in size.
Once installed, the seat will not move. You can try as hard as you like but there is no chance of even the slightest movement from that seat
The seat itself is nice and sturdy and has a tendency to sit quite high up.This should be looked at as a positive though because the little ones will have a nice view of everything that's going on outside. In my experience that helps to make a car journey easier.
The marathon 70 has a nice setting that allows the seat to recline in forward and rear positions. It has two buckle positions and a tangle free fove point harness with ten harness height settings that guarantee a nice snug fit to keep your child nice and secure.
Probably one of the coolest features is the adjustment knob that allows you to alter the headrest and harness heights by simply turning a knob. This is a great feature because it means you don't have to take the seat out of the car in order to adjust it. The cover is also removable so cleaning is not an issue.
Britax Marathon 70
We cannot put a price on the lives of our children. Their safety is paramount and for this reason I highly recommend the Britax Marathon 70 as a superb option to keep your child secure.
Mary MacDonald is a busy mom bringing up two young children. More reviews [http://www.bestchildcarseatreviews.com/combi-zeus-360-convertible-car-seat/]on child car seats can be found at http://www.bestchildcarseatreviews.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Britax-Marathon-70-Child-Car-Seat&id=6666028] Britax Marathon 70 Child Car Seat
We all want to keep our children safe when we are driving and the Britax Marathon 70 convertible car seat will do a great job at that. When I had my first child I was a little blinkered in my thinking and initially used an old borrowed car seat from a friend. If I'm honest, I'll admit it didn't even sit in the car right.But hey, we all think it couldn't happen to us right? Well, I only woke up when I watched a TV program one night and saw how a child had been killed when his Mom had an accident and the seat she used, although it was in OK condition, actually had some fundamental flaws that meant it shouldn't have been used and should have been thrown away. That very next morning, I went out and bought a brand new child car seat and have not looked back since. There are a few different brands but Britax is a very high quality make that uses a lot of modern technology in its production process these days. An example of this is the SafeCell technology. This helps because it is designed to compress in a crash and that lowers the center of gravity and thereby counteracts the normal forward propelling motion that sends someone forwards in an accident. Here are some more of the features of the Britax Marathon 70 child car seat:
The technologies involved in the Britax Marathon 70 car seat are designed to work in such a way that the chances of serious injury to a child sitting in one of these seats is massively reduced.
Features for the Britax Marathon 70:
- the child is kept in the vehicle
- crash forces are diverted away from your child
- the momentum of your childs body will be slowed down
- movement of your child will be minimized which in turn,
- helps to protect your childs brain and spinal cord.
Installing the Britax Marathon 70 is pretty easy, although it's not something you would want to have to do to frequently, as the seat itself is quite large in size.
Once installed, the seat will not move. You can try as hard as you like but there is no chance of even the slightest movement from that seat
The seat itself is nice and sturdy and has a tendency to sit quite high up.This should be looked at as a positive though because the little ones will have a nice view of everything that's going on outside. In my experience that helps to make a car journey easier.
The marathon 70 has a nice setting that allows the seat to recline in forward and rear positions. It has two buckle positions and a tangle free fove point harness with ten harness height settings that guarantee a nice snug fit to keep your child nice and secure.
Probably one of the coolest features is the adjustment knob that allows you to alter the headrest and harness heights by simply turning a knob. This is a great feature because it means you don't have to take the seat out of the car in order to adjust it. The cover is also removable so cleaning is not an issue.
Britax Marathon 70
We cannot put a price on the lives of our children. Their safety is paramount and for this reason I highly recommend the Britax Marathon 70 as a superb option to keep your child secure.
Mary MacDonald is a busy mom bringing up two young children. More reviews [http://www.bestchildcarseatreviews.com/combi-zeus-360-convertible-car-seat/]on child car seats can be found at http://www.bestchildcarseatreviews.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Britax-Marathon-70-Child-Car-Seat&id=6666028] Britax Marathon 70 Child Car Seat
Friday, November 4, 2011
A Mom's Mid-School Year
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mary_Grace_Ramos_Espiel]Mary Grace Ramos Espiel
It's been three months since I went back to 'school', and it is now the middle of my school year. Like usual teacher-student relationships, my teacher and I are done with the getting-to-know you stage (at least for this stage of his life). I already know which cry means he's hungry, which one means he's sleepy and which one means he simply wants to breathe some fresh air outside the house. I would like to think he already knows me as well. I think he's able to notice if I'm happy as he also gets excited and cheerful when I am. And when I'm sad, he gives me that extra warm smile while he touches my face as if saying, "Don't be sad Mommy. I'm here." Surprisingly, that kind of, takes away the sadness.
I was right when I said I would learn a lot from my new teacher. I'm only halfway through my SY and yet, I have already learned valuable lessons from him.
The first lesson he taught me was acceptance. When the school year was just starting, I would often have thoughts like, "If I were at work, I would already be in my HR....If I were there, I would be meeting my club students...If I have work, I would be able to buy him lots of stuff". It was like that for some time. I admit it was hard to let go. After all, that's how my life was for three years.
Spending time with my baby made me realize that where I am right now is where I should be at this moment, that what I'm doing right now is exactly what God has planned for me. I have freely accepted that now, our daily routine would include our early morning playing, his favorite- taking a bath, reading him a book, singing (we're now starting to have 'duets')and watching TV. My day would end with putting him to sleep while singing him a lullaby.
Acceptance is a big step for me. I look forward to the day when it won't hurt anymore every time I remember what happened.
I still have my "if" thoughts. But now, they would include thoughts like "If I were at work, I wouldn't be the first one to see him roll over...If I were leaving early for work everyday, I wouldn't be able to see him smile when I greet him 'good morning'...I would have missed his first time to eat solids (he likes squash more than potatoes). if I were at work, I would not be able to give him what he needs the most at the moment-me".
My baby also taught me something about appreciation. I have learned to appreciate not only unexpected things but also those which seem unfortunate at first. I never expected I would stop working after giving birth. This is why to find myself jobless was an unpleasant situation for me. I would always remember how, what could have been my lifetime job, was taken away from me. I was in a rush to find work after giving birth. There were jobs that I could have taken. Every time I applied for a job, I would ask God for a sign that would tell me that this is the job for me. I searched and searched for work, but none of the jobs that I applied for seems to be it. Could I have missed the sign? In one of my prayers, I simply searched inside my heart. There, I find the sign I was looking for. No job would be good enough for me because deep in my heart, I know I want to spend more time with my baby. And that's when I learned to appreciate the fact that God actually gave me a choice. Thinking about it, I know that if I still had my previous job, I would definitely go back to work right after my ML. But I was given that choice to stay with my baby longer-a choice that not all moms are given.
Now, I appreciate each day that I spend with my baby. I appreciate that I am not really 'jobless'. God has after all, given me a handful to take care of-my family. I am even grateful that God has used my love for writing to keep me busier. I now work online, and I am also revising a book. I just feel so blessed that I can work at my own pace. I love the fact that I can get off the computer once in a while to breastfeed.
My school days are indeed getting more and more exciting. As someone who just went back to school, I look forward to more lessons my child would give me.
Mary Grace Ramos-Espiel
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Moms-Mid-School-Year&id=6662900] A Mom's Mid-School Year
It's been three months since I went back to 'school', and it is now the middle of my school year. Like usual teacher-student relationships, my teacher and I are done with the getting-to-know you stage (at least for this stage of his life). I already know which cry means he's hungry, which one means he's sleepy and which one means he simply wants to breathe some fresh air outside the house. I would like to think he already knows me as well. I think he's able to notice if I'm happy as he also gets excited and cheerful when I am. And when I'm sad, he gives me that extra warm smile while he touches my face as if saying, "Don't be sad Mommy. I'm here." Surprisingly, that kind of, takes away the sadness.
I was right when I said I would learn a lot from my new teacher. I'm only halfway through my SY and yet, I have already learned valuable lessons from him.
The first lesson he taught me was acceptance. When the school year was just starting, I would often have thoughts like, "If I were at work, I would already be in my HR....If I were there, I would be meeting my club students...If I have work, I would be able to buy him lots of stuff". It was like that for some time. I admit it was hard to let go. After all, that's how my life was for three years.
Spending time with my baby made me realize that where I am right now is where I should be at this moment, that what I'm doing right now is exactly what God has planned for me. I have freely accepted that now, our daily routine would include our early morning playing, his favorite- taking a bath, reading him a book, singing (we're now starting to have 'duets')and watching TV. My day would end with putting him to sleep while singing him a lullaby.
Acceptance is a big step for me. I look forward to the day when it won't hurt anymore every time I remember what happened.
I still have my "if" thoughts. But now, they would include thoughts like "If I were at work, I wouldn't be the first one to see him roll over...If I were leaving early for work everyday, I wouldn't be able to see him smile when I greet him 'good morning'...I would have missed his first time to eat solids (he likes squash more than potatoes). if I were at work, I would not be able to give him what he needs the most at the moment-me".
My baby also taught me something about appreciation. I have learned to appreciate not only unexpected things but also those which seem unfortunate at first. I never expected I would stop working after giving birth. This is why to find myself jobless was an unpleasant situation for me. I would always remember how, what could have been my lifetime job, was taken away from me. I was in a rush to find work after giving birth. There were jobs that I could have taken. Every time I applied for a job, I would ask God for a sign that would tell me that this is the job for me. I searched and searched for work, but none of the jobs that I applied for seems to be it. Could I have missed the sign? In one of my prayers, I simply searched inside my heart. There, I find the sign I was looking for. No job would be good enough for me because deep in my heart, I know I want to spend more time with my baby. And that's when I learned to appreciate the fact that God actually gave me a choice. Thinking about it, I know that if I still had my previous job, I would definitely go back to work right after my ML. But I was given that choice to stay with my baby longer-a choice that not all moms are given.
Now, I appreciate each day that I spend with my baby. I appreciate that I am not really 'jobless'. God has after all, given me a handful to take care of-my family. I am even grateful that God has used my love for writing to keep me busier. I now work online, and I am also revising a book. I just feel so blessed that I can work at my own pace. I love the fact that I can get off the computer once in a while to breastfeed.
My school days are indeed getting more and more exciting. As someone who just went back to school, I look forward to more lessons my child would give me.
Mary Grace Ramos-Espiel
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Moms-Mid-School-Year&id=6662900] A Mom's Mid-School Year
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