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Organic Baby
I was so honored to be included in this hangout! Join ME, several of my lovely associates, and our awesome CEO as we share with you our AMAZING and baby-friendly catalog of products.
Are you aware of all of the dangerous chemicals you’re loading onto and into your babies on a daily basis? GOOD NEWS – There is an alternative!!!
*around 30 minutes listen for a top secret reveal that is yet to be released!*
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Well Rested Mama
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LINKS:
Essante Lavender Essential Oil: http://tinyurl.com/lxgssqy
Essante Green Mandarin Essential Oil: http://tinyurl.com/m5bp7v7
Essante Sweet Dreams Essential Oil Blend: http://tinyurl.com/kab4vyv
Infononline 500ml Aroma Diffuser : http://tinyurl.com/l74orz7
**The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
Cyber Monday
Did you brave the madness on Black Friday or have you been patiently waiting on Cyber Monday? Maybe you are sly enough the shop both!
In either case, please check out the awesome deals I’m offering through my at home business. These savings don’t come around often and will vanish at midnight tonight!
Happy Shopping!!!
Click HERE to save 50%-80% on certified organic and toxic free products.
“Scrapbooking” Simplified
Kids say the darnedest things…right?
My daughter comes up with the most creative words. To be honest, I think she’s come up with a few terms more appropriate than the original.
For example:
- An appliance that is a stove top and oven is a “stoven”. Makes perfect sense to me!
- Here’s another that many kids ingeniously use, “hanitizer”. Again, makes sense and I know exactly what they mean.
- One of my favorites has to be the “cat pool”…you know, the big pool next to the “kiddie (kitty) pool”. Obviously!
- Then there’s how she describes someone sneezing. Being the true southern mama that I am, I taught her from birth to say “Bless you!” . Therefore, when a person sneezes she says they “bless you’d”.
- Finally, there’s the “pajacket”, a button up long sleeve pajama top, of course! Genius!
What are some crazy cute things your kids have come up with?
As my daughter….and eventually my son…come up with these brilliant gems, I like to make a note of them (usually in my phone) and later transpose them into a journal that I’m building for each child.
These journals are somewhat random and not neat or pretty, but neither is life with kids. I used to put off adding to them until I was feeling creative or had a quiet moment. Guess what? The journal’s stayed empty and I’m STILL catching up.
My “inner Monica” tries to persuade me to do all the fancy scrapbooking stuff and start a new book each year, but as a solely left handed hemi and busy mom…I get easily frustrated with that sort of thing. I am NOT the super mom that digs cutting, pasting, cricketing, or whatever…if you are, I salute you!
My kids won’t care about all that fancy stuff as young adults anyway (at least that’s what I tell myself). They’ll just be thankful for the memories, right? So don’t sweat it if you can’t find time to make an elaborate page for every life event. SOMETHING is better that a stack of “I’ll get to its”.
I randomly add things like birthday party themes, their friends names, notes about special gifts, cards, cute pictures, and memorable events. As long as you date every entry, the randomness will work itself out. It’s like I’m creating a set of “Clift notes” about their childhood.
For example: Last year, after Lil Imp’s third birthday, I started asking my her a set list of questions like “What do you want to be when you grow up?”, “Who’s your hero?”, and “What’s your favorite toy?”. I plan to ask the same questions, record their answers, and add additional questions for each child until their 18th birthday.
Tips for sticking with it:
- Keep the journals handy, not put up safe in a closet. I keep mine on a dresser in the playroom so I can write as we play.
- Keep a list in your phone. There’s an app for that…I just use a notes app. I type in a key word or phrase as life happens, then add it to the journal when we I get a chance.
- Make it a team effort. Ask your kids what THEY would want to say to their grown-up self…then try to write through yours tears of laughter.
- Finally, don’t sweat the mistakes. Our kids will know good and well that we are not perfect by the time they are young adults. A scribble, coffee stain, or misspelled word will only add character!
Well, these guys are a riot this week so I better go jot some things down!
What sorts of things do you hang onto and add to as keepsakes for your kids?
A Year in Review
Today is my son’s 1st birthday so I thought I’d share with you a project I’m working on…
For each of my kids, I chose a unique stuffed toy for them to pose with in their monthly pictures. As parents, sometimes it’s difficult for us to see the all of the slight changes as our babies grow through their 1st year. For me, this was a good reminder to stop and take note of how my babies were changing month to month.
Here are the monthly pics for my daughter’s 1st year (Warning: I am not a great photographer):
We made an iPhoto book with the pictures. Each monthly pic started a new chapter filled with special events and pictures from that month.
For the second baby we chose a more interactive toy with sentimental value…live and learn:
(I’m honestly not sure what I’ll make for my son to chronicle his 1st year…but I’m open to suggestions…hint, hint)
Obviously, I still have a lot more work to do on the second album, but I wanted to show you how unique the pics could be with a different child and toy. (I’ll try to replace the second album when I have a more complete version)
My daughter, the laid back one, was happy to stretch out next to her inch worm. My son, the non-stop mover, needed a toy he could play with. It’s kinda neat to look back and see so much of their personality even in those early months.
Here are a few of my tips for surviving and sticking with this year long project…
Chose a toy that is sentimental.
Try not to worry about the perfect pose.
Let your baby interact with the toy.
Set monthly reminders on your phone…the date will sneak up on you.
Don’t worry if you miss the exact day. Leave yourself a week window to get the pic when baby is “in the mood”.
Make the pics and end project individual for each child.
Have fun with it!!!
How did you chronicle your baby’s 1st year?
Adaptive Babywearing: Baby K’tan Giveaway!
The Baby K’tan Baby Carrier is a soft hybrid carrier that offers the ideal blend of a sling and wrap. Its innovative double-loop design allows mom or dad to wear baby in multiple positions, without any complicated wrapping or buckling! It is lightweight and compact, yet ergonomically designed to distribute baby’s weight across both shoulders. Retail value: $49.95. www.babyktan.com
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As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, it’s difficult for me to carry my babies unless I am wearing them. I have always been envious of those moms who snuggled with their babies in a simple wrap carrier, but wrapping and tying them one handed never seemed doable. I even tried a few slings, but have yet to find a comfortable option. Hence, I’ve always felt limited to soft structured carriers (SSC) like the Boba and Ergo.
Then…
I was introduced to the Baby K’tan while shopping at my local baby boutique, A Nurturing Moment. The owner, Glenni, is familiar with my need for adaptability and encouraged me to try the Baby K’tan with her weighted display doll to see if it might be an acceptable adaptable option.
After playing around with the doll in a few different carries, I decided the K’tan might be worthy of further review.
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Little did I know, it would become one of my daily essentials!
Hug Position
My son is a snuggler and demands human contact most of the day and night. I love this about him…it’s so nice to feel needed. However, it means that blogging and keeping up with housework must often take a backseat.
I tried wearing him in one of my SSC’s around the house and it worked well, but it was difficult to get the timing right. It’s a bit cumbersome to wear a SSC all day while baby is playing or eating just to be able to quickly pop him in it when he starts to get fussy or show feeding cues. I found that if I waited until he was ready to be held before I put the carrier on, I’d just forgo the whole thing and end up sitting with him and my Boppy.
My Baby K’tan solved all of those issues. I can toss my K’tan around my neck at a moments notice. I’ve even worn it across my chest in preparation to grab baby and go when he starts working up a fuss. It’s about like wearing a scarf, lightweight and soft.
My son may still fuss a bit while getting situated, but no more waiting on mommy to get settled with my Boppy…oh, and my iPad…and I’ll need a water…and maybe a snack…and, crap, I better go pee first because he may sleep for hours.
The K’tan allows me to stay mobile and hands free while my son nurses and naps to his heart’s content.
So here’s the breakdown…
Ease of use:
There is a learning curve. The Baby K’tan consists of two large loops of fabric connected by a small loop and a separate sash. This can be a bit daunting for a mom who is new to babywearing. Luckily, Baby K’tan offers a free step by step guide with pictures and easy to follow instructions for each of the 6 positions. There are also how-to videos on the Baby K’tan YouTube channel, as well as, my adaptive videos below to help you get started.
Mommy Comfort:
The K’tan is super comfy. No buckles, no straps, and balanced weight distribution across your shoulders and back. For me and my 19 lb tank of a son, this is not my all day carrier. My back starts getting fatigued after a few hours even while sitting. However, if I had found this option when he was a newborn, I could see myself easily wearing him for full day outings. Also, as you’ll see below, I am able to comfortably and safely carry my 32 lb three and a half year old with my K’tan in the hip position. This can come in handy when we are out and about, as I can carry one and push the other in the stroller.
A quick adaptive note, a good stroller can offer a bit extra balance and support while baby wearing on the go. I’ll discuss this at length another day, but thought I’d mention it here as well.
Baby Comfort:
I love, love, love this carrier for baby comfort. Baby is able to move and stretch against the fabric while still staying safe and cozy next to you.
My son has eczema that often flares behind his knees and this is the ONLY carrier we’ve tried that does not cause pressure and rub spots where his legs rest and meet the fabric.
Breastfeeding:
(I’m actually writing this section while nursing) We love breastfeeding in our Baby K’tan. The stretchy fabric snuggles him close and is lightweight and cool enough for baby to stay comfy. Initially, I was concerned that my Baby K’tan was going to carry him too high to comfortably nurse, but once he settled into the hug position breastfeeding was a breeze. I am able to nurse sitting or standing. Due to my right sided weakness, I could never dream of nursing standing without a carrier.
If modesty is your concern, nursing in public in your Baby K’tan can be very discrete…as you may note in one of the videos below.
The Downside:
Sizeability: You must buy the size that fits you so it can be difficult to share with another caregiver. On the flip side, this is the trade off for no straps or buckles…and sometimes it’s nice to have something in the house that you don’t have to share. 😉
Weight Distribution: I must watch my posture in this carrier. Unlike an SSG which places some of baby’s weight on your hips, the K’tan (and any other wrap or sling carrier) distributes baby’s weight throughout your shoulders and back. For this reason, my K’tan has become my at home and quick in and out errands carrier. It is ideal for doctor’s visits, managing baby between the car and shopping cart, and nursing in public.
The Positions:
Hug Position: My favorite for my little one. Ideal for breastfeeding.
Two-Hip Position: Good for shifting baby’s weight when fatigue is an issue.
Adventure Position: We’ve attempted this hold a few times, but my son is not a fan of facing out. Babywearers should use caution when wearing a baby forward facing because it can cause extra stress to the back and shoulders due to the way the baby’s weight is distributed and carried vs. the way it’s distributed when baby is snuggled close and “wrapped around” facing your body. It’s also important to remember to support the baby’s legs and hips when forward facing. Fortunately, the K’tan allows for this needed support by enabling the wearer to widen the base of the carrier/ fabric so that it cradles the child and gives full support to his hips and spine. See Owner’s Manual p.9
Explore Position: I prefer this position to the Adventure position, but my son is almost too large at 19lbs to pull it off.
The Adventure and Explore positions may be ideal for wheelchair users that need extra security holding their little one while using hands to ambulate their chair.
Hip Position: Great for hauling a larger child. I also use this position with my son for a quick assist, but it’s not entirely hands free and thus not ideal for this one-handed wearer.
Is it wrong to want another baby just so I can try the Newborn Kangaroo Position? 😉
With so many position options this carrier is ideal for adapting to the caregiver’s individual babywearing needs.
Baby K’tan helped me be gain independence through adaptive babywearing and I hope it will do the same for you!
In honor of Independence Day, I am offering one lucky winner a free Baby K’tan in your choice of size and color. The contest begins at midnight tonight (6/20/13) and will run through July 5th. Please share this post and submit your entries above. Good Luck!
Adaptive Baby Wearing
This part applies to all carriers…whatever works for you:
My tip for any mom with limited mobility or just new to baby wearing: Find a place to sit. It is 10x easier and safer getting a baby or toddler in carrier while seated. At home, I prefer the couch for extra wiggle room. When out and about, I get baby situated in the carrier while sitting in the car or on a park bench.
To unload your baby: Simply sit and lay baby in your lap or bend over a chair, car seat and gently lay baby down and slide him out of the carrier. Once baby is situated in his next destination (car seat, floor, Dad’s arms) take the carrier off.
As with all things adaptive, do whatever works for you. Every body is different. Find what adaptations work best for you and your baby. My goal is to demonstrate the adaptive possibilities of the carrier, the rest is up to you!
Disclosure: I received no compensation for this post. I purchased a Baby K’tan carrier at a discount for the purpose of this review. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own.
I only review products that I’ve found to be adaptable through personal experience or that I have researched and tried for the purpose of adaptive review.
Amazon links are affiliate links.
Milestones
Today marks the day my son has been in the outside world longer than he was in my belly. Yes, mommies can have separation anxiety too.
Chase turned 39 weeks/9 months old at 7:19 this morning.
During the 1st 9 months, a baby is 100% dependent on mom for everything and mom is able to protect every fiber of their being to the best of her ability. A nurturing bond forms. It’s a bond that cannot be broken…hence the separation anxiety.
The 2nd 9 months is SO much more fun. Each day is better than the last.
So why is this 9 month milestone such a big deal for me?
My baby is growing up and I must adapt. It’s just that simple.
Today marks the day Chase and I have been separated longer than we were intertwined. He no longer depends on me for everything. He is gaining independence through enjoying new foods, crawling, communicating…He still needs me, and always will, but each day he depends on me a little less.
I adore the little boy he is becoming. I am thankful for each new act of independence he exhibits…no matter how much it frightens me or causes me to gasp for air. It’s a big scary world out there and, as a mom, I am driven to protect him.
Our next major milestone will be weaning. I will again have to adapt to a new level of his independence. I will lose the ability to comfort and protect him through nursing. Thankfully, I have months and hopefully even years before he self weans, but I know a time will come when he joins his sister in the land of “I’m not a baby, I’m a big kid!”.
Until then, I will soak up every moment, adapt, and collect as many marbles as I can.
Happy 3/4 birthday Baby Boy!
What are the milestones that hit you the hardest? What are your favorite milestones?
Fisher-Price Rock ‘N Play Sleeper
The Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play Sleeper was a lifesaver when my babies were small and tops my list of newborn must-haves.
Soothe, nap or play!
The Rock ‘n Play is perfect for newborns because it’s extra deep with a structured insert that surrounds baby in comfort and makes them feel secure.
The rocker is manual, but if you have hardwood or tile floors the rocker will stay in motion for a bit requiring less mommy effort. The only thing I would add to this product would be a vibration option, but both of our babies were able to survive without that feature and the trade off having such an otherwise all in one tool was well worth the sacrifice.
The Rock ‘n Play is very lightweight and fold-able, so it’s easy to move around the house. I easily moved it from bedroom, to bathroom, to kitchen as we went through our morning routine. Thanks to our rocker, I am proud to report that I rarely missed a shower or a meal because baby transferred from room to room with me without much fuss. 😉
Helpful Hint: I fastened a belt to ours for easy pulling from one room to another so even our 3 year old daughter was able to help Mommy by pulling the (empty) rocker between rooms.
The Rock ‘n Play is elevated so it does not require the back wrenching leaning over to pick up baby like most baby seats. As an adaptive mom, with use of only one arm, our rocker was essential for me safely lifting baby into my lap to breastfeed. I was able to get situated in my glider with my Boppy (another must-have, blog to follow) before picking baby up from the elevated Rock ‘n Play.
The seat is inclined, which is perfect for babies with reflux. We used our Rock ‘n Play as a co sleeper. Both of our babies suffered from reflux as infants and were fussy when laid flat.
The Rock ‘n Play includes a three-point restraint to keep baby safe and secure and a washable insert for clean comfort and support.
Fisher-Price Rock ‘N Play Sleeper is an all in one tool…rocker/swing, baby seat, sleeping wedge, etc. I LOVE this product and my babies did too!
Here are some details from the Fisher-Price website:
Developmental Guidelines: Use only with a child unable to sit up unassisted or grasp side of seat and pull upward.
Maximum weight: 25 lbs. (11,3 kg)
A perfect solution for …
Sleep & play
• Toy rattle
Portability & storage
• Easy-push button fold
Easy-care
• Removable, machine-washable insert
Convenience
• Storage pocket for little extras
There was a recall in January 2013, but it was an easy fix and should only be of concern if you purchase a used model. The Rock ‘n Plays were recalled because it was found that mold could develop between the removable seat cushion and the hard plastic frame of the sleeper when it remains wet/moist or is infrequently cleaned.
Eczema…it’s so much more than a rash.
My son, Chase, has a wicked dairy allergy resulting in horrible eczema.
He was about 4 months old when the eczema manifested itself. He had always suffered from digestive issues, which I later discovered were linked to the daily whey protein shakes that I was drinking (talk about feeling guilty!), but no abnormal skin issues to speak of.
At Chase’s 4 month check up His peditrician refered us to a dermatologist. The dermatologist diagnosed Chase with eczema, impetigo, and infantile seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap. He sent us home with a prescription for an antibiotic for the impetigo and several recommendations for over-the-counter creams as well as two prescription lotions. Nothing really seem to help.
In February, I was introduced to Essante Organics. Essante not only offeres an organic protein shake that is soy, dairy, and gluten free, but they also have a 100% organic baby line. Desperate to help our son, we ordered their baby wash and baby lotion immediately. With the use of these products Chase’s eczema cleared up in three days. I still have to avoid dairy and know every ingredient in the food I eat and introduce to him, but the hardest part of the battle was over…or so I thought…
*Update*
We have now added Essante Sanitizing Spray to our eczema regime. This spray is powerful enough to sanitize my diaper covers, yet safe and gentle enough to spray on raw scratched spots.
Unfortunately, since Chase spent most of his early months scratching, it had become a habit. He had learned that scratching would get my attention and often lead to nursing for comfort (smart kid, right?). Any gains we made were often lost due to scratching and irritating his fragile skin.
We were unable to find long sleeve onesies with fold over sleeves in the larger sizes that my son needed. We tried mittens with velcro and even homemade ones with secured draw strings, but as a seven-month old Chase became very skilled at taking them off. Not to mention, mittens can be very difficult to put on a protesting active baby and even more so, wrestling him down with one hand in the dark at 2am.
Then we found Scratch Me Not.
ScratchMeNots are a uni sleeve or cardigan type contraption with fold over mittens that can be worn year round. Each ScratchMeNot is made in the USA from a Bamboo/Cotton blend. The mittens also have a silk outer layer that provides reduced friction against the skin..
ScratchMeNots come in sizes up to 3T. However, should you need a size that is not listed, they will create one especially for you!
I love this company and I have been very pleased with their customer service, as well as, the products.
Thanks to ScratchMeNot, my son is sleeping better and I am not waking up to pulled hair and fresh scratches (on Chase and myself) each morning.
And lest we forget the adaptive part…this alternative to traditional mittens is a lifesaver when it comes to putting them on a squirmy baby. No more fastening and tightening or wrestling to put them back on. I simple put his ScratchMeNot on like a jacket and fold over the mitten cuffs. Easy peasy! Chase has yet to figure out how to get out of his ScratchMeNot and I don’t foresee that becoming a problem as long as I keep him in the right size.
****Disclosure: I received no compensation for this post. I was not required to give a positive review and all opinions are 100% my own. I am an executive with Essante Organics and only receive compensation through their outlined system (sales, bonuses, commissions, etc).
