tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25545481136504823472024-02-07T20:12:31.101-05:00Mama KateJoys of Motherhood and Breastfeeding, Sprinkled with Random Blonde MomentsMama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-37507414298751488922011-01-31T06:06:00.003-05:002011-01-31T06:06:00.229-05:00Mad about Mama Milk Monday: Communication is the Key to Breastfeeding Success for Mama, Baby & Worldlove. Love. LOVE the recently announced theme for the 2011 World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7... <br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOethpT7XoB7bewOCmcPbK8HgIWbRym8OGIwGtk7if1et6r0MnBNve2tGuqev3XOF76-__hyuacRcBsuNMRKyzewIYCejJWNunzeqhmsSrlVue1Jah86wYQmy1nNEoX4jqBW-RTCRwjGM/s1600/wbw2011.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOethpT7XoB7bewOCmcPbK8HgIWbRym8OGIwGtk7if1et6r0MnBNve2tGuqev3XOF76-__hyuacRcBsuNMRKyzewIYCejJWNunzeqhmsSrlVue1Jah86wYQmy1nNEoX4jqBW-RTCRwjGM/s200/wbw2011.gif" width="163" /></a>The <a href="http://www.waba.org.my/">World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA)</a> is pleased to announce the World Breastfeeding Week theme for 2011 focusing on engaging and mobilizing youth intergenerational work with the catchy slogan of: "Talk to me! Breastfeeding - a 3D Experience". </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
I am so tickled about this focus because it encourages us all, breastfeeding mamas, lactivists, health educators, health care professionals and IBCLCs to think outside of the traditional box of breastfeeding support, and focus on communication as a key to breastfeeding success! Without a doubt, communication mediums are changing constantly, therefore our way of reaching others must also evolve over time if we hope to be effective in our reach to the people we wish to serve/impact and effective in the outcomes of our work. </div><br />
Breastfeeding has been happening since the beginning of time- well since Adam and Eve became the parents of Cain and Abel, but that doesn't mean our support and education methods should mimic such archaic methods. Don't get me wrong, I do not think that we need to muddy the waters with an overcomplicated message. Just the opposite! The beauty of today's technology, especially with social media at the forefront of daily communication, allows simple, effective and powerful messages to be disseminated with amazing impact! These efforts can create outcomes (my wish list), such as: <br />
<ul><li>increase awareness of the importance of breastfeeding</li>
<li>dispel myths of breastfeeding (pain, time commitment</li>
<li>reduce embarrassment of exposure</li>
<li>inform mothers of their options when it comes to a "low" milk supply </li>
<li>alter the "norm" of infant feeding to mother's milk</li>
<li>increase accessibility of pumping at work sites and not just acceptance, but ENCOURAGEMENT to breastfeed!</li>
<li>and much more!</li>
</ul>Communication can, and will assist in making my <em>wish list</em> a reality! I'm with ya WABA... and I'll help to communicate the wonders, beauty and life-saving importance of breastfeeding! <br />
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<strong><em><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Happy Milking Mamas!</span></em></strong>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-81207485536642266302011-01-28T22:47:00.001-05:002011-01-28T22:49:41.429-05:00Epidemic, shmecidemic... let's breastfeed!Have you turned on the boob tube, read msn.com or opened a newspaper in the past 5 years? If so, chances are you've heard about the Epidemic that has swept our nation and is circling the globe... obesity! Wow, so people are getting fatter at alarming rates. Not only are we getting fatter, but we're getting fatter at a younger age than ever. According to the <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/">Centers for Disease Control & Prevention</a> (CDC), the following chronic diseases are directly linked to Obesity:<br />
<ul><li>♥ disease </li>
<li>Type 2 diabetes </li>
<li>Cancers, such as breast and colon </li>
<li>High blood pressure (hypertension) </li>
<li>High total cholesterol or high levels of triglycerides</li>
<li>Stroke </li>
<li>Liver and gallbladder disease </li>
<li>Sleep apnea and respiratory problems </li>
<li>Osteoarthritis</li>
<li>Reproductive health complications </li>
</ul>Isn't that <strong>amazing</strong>?? That ONE condition could be directly linked to so many other chronic diseases, interfering with daily life activities, overall happiness/contentment, financial expenditures and much more?!! I don't want to depress anyone with a blog post about death, morbidity and disease. So, I think I'll shed a little light on this EPIDEMIC of GREAT PROPORTIONS-- OBESITY...<br />
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There are things you can do to <strong>prevent obesity and many other chronic diseases! One AMAZING thing is... breastfeed.</strong> According to <a href="http://www.usbreastfeeding.org/">The United States Breastfeeding Committee</a> Chair, Joan Younger Meek, MD, MS, RD, IBCLC, "Multiple studies have shown that a history of not breastfeeding increases the risk of being overweight or obese in childhood and adolescence. Adolescent obesity often persists into adult life. Breastfeeding plays an important role in obesity prevention and improving overall health outcomes, and therefore is vitally important to public health." <br />
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<strong>According to <a href="http://www.askdrsears.com/">Dr. Sears</a>, research has also shown that even</strong> in infancy breastfed babies as a whole are leaner than their formula-fed peers. Studies have shown that children who are breastfed are less likely to be obese during adolescence, and that <strong>longer periods of breastfeeding greatly reduce the risk of being overweight in adulthood</strong>. Overweight children are more likely to become overweight adults. Since breastfed babies themselves control how much they eat, children who are breastfed learn to trust their bodies' signals about how much they need to eat and when. This builds healthy eating habits right from the start. Some parents might encourage a formula-fed baby to finish up the last ounce or two of milk in the bottle, but you can't do this to a breastfed baby. Have you ever tried? I have... especially when very full. But when a baby is finished, they're finished!<br />
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Dr. Sears (don't you love him?) also adds that babies who are breastfed are less likely to develop type 1 diabetes in childhood. Researchers have attributed this lowered risk of diabetes to the delayed introduction of cow milk in breastfed babies. In addition, researchers have shown a lower insulin release in breastfed infants compared to infants fed formula. This preventive effect is particularly important if you have a family history of diabetes. <br />
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Dr. Meek points out that the longer and the more exclusively babies breastfeed, the better their health outcomes. "Both duration and exclusivity should be considered when investigating the relationships between breastfeeding and obesity. The duration of breastfeeding has been shown to be inversely related to overweight--meaning that the longer the duration of breastfeeding, the lower the odds of overweight. And although further research is needed, exclusive breastfeeding appears to have a stronger protective effect than breastfeeding combined with formula feeding."<br />
The value of breastfeeding to health of babies and mamas is evidence-based, solid, and continually being reaffirmed by new research. The review and analysis of breastfeeding research released in 2007 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Agency for Health care Research and Quality strongly supports the evidence-based research, which revealed the following success of breastfeeding:<br />
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<u>For Child:</u> reduced risk of ear, skin, stomach, and respiratory infections, diarrhea, sudden infant death syndrome; and in the longer term, reduced risk of obesity, type 1 and 2 diabetes, asthma, and childhood leukemia. <br />
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<u>For Mama:</u> reduced risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and postpartum depression.<br />
Breastfeeding has been shown to help mamas shed pregnancy weight (burning up to 500 calories a day)! <br />
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Other steps you can take today to prevent obesity tomorrow...<br />
<ol><li><u>Eat a variety of fruits and veggies</u>, and try to cut down of fatty foods. Swap out your nightly bowl of chips and dip with crunchy veggies and hummus, which is a personal fave!</li>
<li><u>Get up and move!</u> You don't have to run marathons like my rock star friend <a href="http://mollyberrieshodgepodge.wordpress.com/">Molly</a> in order to fight off obesity. Small steps add up to great success! Ways you can sneak in more physical activity each day:</li>
<ul><li>Take the stairs! Hey if I can run up the Hancock building in Chicago just 4 months after having L, you can certainly forgo the 2 story ride up the escalator. </li>
<li>Dance! Whether you're training for the next season of Dancing with the Stars, or you have two left feet-- no worries. Throw your cares to the wind, crank up your favorite tunes and get jiggy with it! Dancing is a favorite indoor activity at our house.</li>
<li>Take Fido for a walk, or at least toss him a <strike>snow</strike>ball.</li>
</ul><li><u>Get physical, physical...</u> Olivia had the right idea. OK, I'm not talking about <em>nookie</em> with your spouse! Regular physical exams with your physician are important to your overall health. Everything from mammograms to skin checks, and from monitoring your weight to <span style="background-color: white;">discovering a tobacco cessation program perfect for you. Bottom line: get <strike>a</strike> physical with your physician, you'll be glad you did!</span></li>
</ol>It is clear-- Obesity has serious a serious reduction in health of Americans, increasing the risk of many chronic diseases and illnesses, including: coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancers, high blood pressure, stroke, liver and gallbladder disease, sleep apnea and respiratory problems, osteoarthritis, and gynecological problems. <br />
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<strong>Do your part to help stop the Obesity Epidemic... breastfeed for the health of us all.</strong><br />
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<strong><em>Happy Nursing Mamas!</em></strong><br />
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Please note: I in no way take Obesity lightly; and I fully recognize the magnitude of this global health crisis. If you have medical concerns, be sure to contact your family physician to receive a comprehensive assessment of your needs. </span></em>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-72384493139715686442011-01-25T06:26:00.000-05:002011-01-24T21:27:16.002-05:00Waaa, Waaa, WAAA!<div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Every future firefighter has to start somewhere... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis-pPZSp0Lm4Hh-5yNXkLCyWxKpJnvwJr45Ag32XsYSL5J5yK32o0WHc4rDDhHu2PKfjazAwHRAQq4eeLM238LkHlF0PqbN6AORXDpcKVgKhbOe52F46Vj_xe9sDlm_BMZo_NK4iBTdW0/s1600/B+firebox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis-pPZSp0Lm4Hh-5yNXkLCyWxKpJnvwJr45Ag32XsYSL5J5yK32o0WHc4rDDhHu2PKfjazAwHRAQq4eeLM238LkHlF0PqbN6AORXDpcKVgKhbOe52F46Vj_xe9sDlm_BMZo_NK4iBTdW0/s400/B+firebox.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We got a new ottoman yesterday and it's shipping box quickly turned into our very own fire truck! If you use your imagination you can practically hear B's siren blaring through the family room. Earplugs... I need earplugs with all the "boy" noises going on around here. Honestly though when it's quiet in the house, which is rare, I go a little crazy and have to turn on the TV, music or call a loved one. So, perhaps I'll forgo the boy-noise-blockers and savor the sweet screeching siren sounds seeping from our home's inner walls. On second thought, perhaps I'll buy some earplugs for our neighbors!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Take a good look at B's goldilocks because yours truly cut them all off last night. It's a short 'do and it looks great... pics to come.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>Happy Parenting!</em></div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-41439965477407971482011-01-24T13:40:00.001-05:002011-01-24T13:42:02.628-05:00Mad About Mama Milk Monday: National Compliment DayDid you know today is National Compliment Day?! That's right. So whether or not we <em>need</em> a special day set aside to compliment others; the day does encourage us to be mindful about offering compliments to those around us. Being kind and sharing good cheer is something that I'd like to think comes naturally to everyone, but now we know that's not true. But each of us can intentionally share kind words: compliments and encouragements to those around us. Everyone from the mailman to our kids, co-workers to your spouse and everyone in between.<br />
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Here are my top 5 ways you can encourage a nursing mama with compliments:<br />
5. <em>Nice latch; you must be a great teacher!</em><br />
4. <em>Love the color of your nursing bra! Where'd you find it?</em><br />
3. <em>Your dedication to making breastfeeding work has really paid off. Kudos to you!</em><br />
2<em>. </em>From a spouse or family member, <em>Thanks for being so giving of yourself, so that ____ (my grandchild </em>or <em>our son) can have the best start at life.</em><br />
1. <em>I'm impressed by your ability to nurse your baby in a sling, while loading the dishwasher and taking a conference call. What talent!</em><br />
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The best compliment and encouragement has come from my hubs, especially during the first few weeks of nursing each of our kids. I can't recall one specific compliment, but his support has been unceasing. He truly rocks my world! <strong>Thank you honey for being the best male lactivist I know. Without your support, I never could have made it as long as I have! (19 months with B, and 15 months and counting with L!)</strong><br />
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I'd love to hear what compliment(s) have encouraged you along your nursing journey so that I can continue the compliment chain with others! Please share...<br />
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<strong><em>Happy Milking Mamas!</em></strong>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-62864961576087539112011-01-22T22:30:00.001-05:002011-01-22T22:38:21.824-05:00Baby It's Cold Outside... And?!Um, we live in northern O-H-I-O and cold weather is nothing out of the ordinary. It's also not out of the ordinary for winter to last 5 months; November through April. Every year I fluctuate between loving and hating the snow and seemingly never ending cold temps. I love playing outside with the kids. Although I should preface that... I really really really enjoy running in the snow pulling the kiddos in the sleds or chasing them through the snow. I do <u>not</u> enjoy making snowballs or snowmen. I know... I can't believe I admitted that as a mama of two young kids! I <em>should</em> love the romance of building a snowman, but really it seems as though the snow conditions are never exactly right. The snow is either too fluffy or too icy-- like my technical meteorology lingo?! Ha. <br />
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Well snow or no snow, right now it's just plan FRIGID! With temps in the single digits and windchill in the negatives playtime is inside- no exceptions. I fear that soon cabin fever will set in! Regardless of the temps outside, we've all got sillies, crazies and jiggles that need to GET out. Our top 10 ways to play inside at home include:<br />
<ol><li>Spinning: B's version of dancing</li>
<li>Dancing</li>
<li>Jumping</li>
<li>Puzzles</li>
<li>Fire Calls: we're a fire family so fire trucks, firefighting, building stations and going out on <em>fire calls</em> are a big part of our daily lives. oh and the kids' sirens... wowza. one word: LOUD.</li>
<li>Baby rocking: L is such a lil Mama, which REALLY really really warms my heart!</li>
<li>Story time</li>
<li>Hide & Seek: B loves telling us where to hide and even then he gets scared everytime. What a hoot!</li>
<li>Baking/cooking together: <a href="http://mama-kate.blogspot.com/2010/01/fa-la-la-la-lafal-fun.html">B is a great helper in the kitchen</a>!</li>
<li>Starring out the window with our cheeks up against the pane while longing for spring, it's warmer temps, brighter rays of sunshine, peeking flowers and chirping birds... soon, soon enough.</li>
</ol>How do you and your family keep active or entertained indoors, especially during the bitterly cold winter months?! <br />
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Happy weekend & stay warm!Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-241798481223267722011-01-21T06:32:00.006-05:002011-01-21T06:32:00.761-05:00Breastfeeding Blog HopIt’s Week 3 of the weekly Breastfeeding Blog Hop.<br />
<center><a href=”http://www.LifeWithLevi.com/” mce_href=”http://www.LifeWithLevi.com/”><img border=”0″ src=”http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa94/dvanti77/th_BreastfeedingBlogHopButton.jpg?t=1294413782″ mce_src=”http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa94/dvanti77/th_BreastfeedingBlogHopButton.jpg?t=1294413782″/></a></center><br />
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Link up to connect with other breastfeeding-friendly bloggers!<br />
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Host: @LifeWithLevi<br />
Co-Hosts: @ashley_d00dle, @ABCGP<br />
This Week's Guest Host: @BabyDickey<br />
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Here are the guidelines for this blog hop:<br />
Follow the 4 blog hosts for the week (spots #1-4). Spot #4 will always feature a blogger randomly selected from the previous week's blog hop. <br />
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Link up your breastfeeding-friendly blog so others can find it. If you have posted about breastfeeding (and/or pumping) in the past or plan to post about breastfeeding, that's you! <br />
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Check out some of the other blogs from the Linky. Be sure to leave a comment on each blog that you found them through the Breastfeeding Blog Hop so they can follow you back! <br />
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Repost the linky (link for the code is in the lower right-hand corner of the linky below) on your blog to help promote the blog hop. Be sure to add some info about YOU so others have a place to say "Hi" & let you know they're following. <br />
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This blog hop will be active from Thursday, 01/20 - Sunday, 01/23. <br />
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About Me: I'm a Fire Wife, Mama to a preschooler & toddler, Lactivist, Public Health Educator, Christ-follower, & Diet Coke enthusiast. Follow me on Twitter @kbevan4<br />
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<script src="http://www.linkytools.com/basic_linky_include.aspx?id=70403" type="text/javascript" ></script>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-60953125085948340232011-01-20T22:03:00.001-05:002011-01-20T22:05:23.026-05:00Advice for first-time parents...Becoming a parent for the first time is filled with emotion: excitement, fear, hope, nervousness and much more! I wish I had known/followed these few pieces of advice as a first-time mama:<br />
<ol><li><strong>Sleep when your baby sleeps.</strong> Everyone told me that, but did I listen? Nope. Ocassionally I took a nap, but not like my body, mind and spirit <strike>wanted</strike> needed me to! Looking back I definitely wish I would have slept more when B slept-- at least during the first 4-6 months. It's very true-- the cooking and cleaning can and will all wait! But, sleep-- it is neccessary to function even on the most basic of levels! So be sure to get your Zzz's when the baby does.</li>
<li>Keep in mind and TRUST the fact that <strong>every single stage, both easy and challenging, is only for a season.</strong> Therefore, try your best not to get worked up about all the what-ifs and wondering if you're doing <em>x y & z</em> "correctly." It's amazing, and you'll realize even more so as your little one becomes a toddler and preschooler, how quickly the stages truly go-- sometimes in the matter of minutes, one can go from <strong>hot</strong> to <em>cold</em>, from fighting sleep to sweet dreams, from loving sweet potatoes to hating them with a vengence-- flinging them across the room with an accuracy and speed worthy of a <em>Cy Young Award</em>. This has been my mantra with both kids, especially during long nights breastfeeding- leaving my sleep deprieved, yet <u>thankful</u> for our special nighttime dates!</li>
<li>Go out on dates with your spouse! If you do nothing else as a new parent, remember to keep your spouse-- the <strong>first</strong> love of your life-- <strike>at</strike> towards the top of your prioriety list! I honestly believe that a strong marriage is the foundation to your family and parenting success! And I know you desperately long to succeed as a parent! I'm here to tell you that it is SO easy to let special moments with your spouse get pushed aside by the needs of your child(ren), and rightfully so at times. Kids are a great responsibilty that often need/demand your time, energy and love immediately (i.e. breastfeeding, kissing boo-boos, and general childrearing duties), which is naturally a big part of this stage of your life. Maintaining a solid relationship with your spouse as your SPOUSE, not as <em>Daddy</em>, is extremely important. <br />
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So how can you maintain or strengthen your marriage, especially during the first few years as new parents? Make time for one another! This can happen at the end of the night once your little one is in bed by just cuddling on the couch watching your favorite flick; as a family date out for lunch or a scoop of frozen yogurt (especially during infancy when all they do is sleep); and every so often book a sitter or ask a grandparent to watch the kids while you and your love go out for dinner and a movie, go for a bike ride on your favorite path or simply go grocery shopping without kids(really THIS is a huge <u>treat</u> to me)! Whatever you do, make it special by focusing on one another. </li>
</ol>Enjoy being a first-time parent. It's an amazing, wonderful, sometimes rocky, yet always rewarding journey! Your kiddos are your's so love them like no other, find joy in their quirks, laugh together each day and show love to their mama/daddy!<br />
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Happy parenting!<br />
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<div align="center">I love parenting these cuties... even on the hard days that require dark chocolate and lots of prayers!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyvyBGDzCxP0JdP-K1ttb5vE3xo2Zdrz37pPgcQsFLzmL1dmBvC71SmFKfJvx_FXhsQiojyL-AulT97Kxvipi5Wnm8rQ4qjgcVPcPsJ1EcwYLaAIxkki2L0r9rpfarQs1LG9FD7CTpEb8/s1600/June+2010+137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyvyBGDzCxP0JdP-K1ttb5vE3xo2Zdrz37pPgcQsFLzmL1dmBvC71SmFKfJvx_FXhsQiojyL-AulT97Kxvipi5Wnm8rQ4qjgcVPcPsJ1EcwYLaAIxkki2L0r9rpfarQs1LG9FD7CTpEb8/s320/June+2010+137.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center"></div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-67720693792491391592011-01-18T20:46:00.000-05:002011-01-18T20:46:10.528-05:00Sweet, sweet photo...I adore sketches, photographs and paintings of mothers with their nurslings. If you've ever used my guest bathroom you know-- as I have a print of <a href="http://www.art.com/products/p10063864-sb-i3589916/pablo-picasso-motherhood.htm?sorig=cat&sorigid=0&dimvals=0&ui=be1de704d04443ac9362a781036ea4f1&searchstring=picasso">Picasso's Motherhood.</a> Even while people pee, I hope to help normalize breastfeeding. :-)<br /><br />Celebrity Orlando Bloom and his supermodel wife Miranda Kerr recently welcomed their first bundle of JOY into the world. Oh and oh precious he is! Check out a gorgeous photo of baby Flynn and his mama--<a href="http://bit.ly/h9tGao"> here</a>.<br /><br />Happy Nursing!Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-46680787100413305392011-01-12T21:38:00.000-05:002011-01-12T21:38:08.534-05:00:-)Good golly! It's been FOR.EV.ER. since I last blogged! The crazy thing is-- life hasn't really changed all that much. Things are still super busy juggling life as a fire wife with 2 kiddos, 1 mini dachshund and a part-time job. L and I are still nursing, and B is still a handful.<br />
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Lately I've been pondering a change. I'm not entirely sure what, where or when it will be. There's 3 things you can be sure of: taxes, death and CHANGE. And aren't each of those good? Taxes go toward the building of society, governemt and your community-- hopefully used in good stewardship, creative planning and with the betterment of all in mind. Death means, for those who follow Christ, the fulfilment of faith, hope and love in the flesh through God the Father. And Change, hopefully means transforming- even when painful- into a better version of the previous state. So we shall see, we shall see. Right now I'm just trying to enjoy this stage of life, because it is flying by so quickly!<br />
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Hold on... cause change is a comin'!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">This... I don't ever want to change! Me & L in the Moby.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQd2IPf9i15cJMjrXLQvchSalhh9eUHy6ieXAqc5JddNbxPRRA5d2XiV7OV_hB7taKau_s6RMrHv3oC0PKIUhPS1I4SNnShJGI3ru3NYVlWjXA5LOGa6HN3sqe9eR6jYVEZyIK6lIrNtU/s1600/KandL.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQd2IPf9i15cJMjrXLQvchSalhh9eUHy6ieXAqc5JddNbxPRRA5d2XiV7OV_hB7taKau_s6RMrHv3oC0PKIUhPS1I4SNnShJGI3ru3NYVlWjXA5LOGa6HN3sqe9eR6jYVEZyIK6lIrNtU/s400/KandL.bmp" width="300" /></a></div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-16218323049600941292010-08-31T20:49:00.000-04:002010-08-31T20:49:27.944-04:00LOVE. THIS.<p> </p><p>This rocks my world. Way to go Austin! I LOVE the t-shirts... I want one! b</p><p><object style="BACKGROUND-IMAGE: url(http://i3.ytimg.com/vi/ZSxWAM1Qdvo/hqdefault.jpg)" height="295" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZSxWAM1Qdvo?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZSxWAM1Qdvo?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="480" height="295" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></p>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-11763726746976265932010-06-21T20:04:00.000-04:002010-06-21T20:04:30.260-04:00Mad About Mama Milk Monday: Worksite EditionCalling all breastfeeding-friendly worksites in Lorain County, OH. The <a href="http://www.loraincobreastfeeds.org/">Lorain County Breastfeeding Coalition</a> wants to honor you for your dedication and support of breastfeeding!<br />
<br />
Read the press release below (by yours truly) for complete details... <br />
<blockquote>The Lorain County Breastfeeding Coalition (LCBC) is on a quest to find breastfeeding-friendly worksites in Lorain County. Feedback is needed to identify Lorain County worksites that actively support the efforts of their employees who want to continue breastfeeding when they return to work after maternity/adoptive leave. <br />
<br />
To acknowledge small and large workplaces that share the LCBC's mission, Lorain County’s top breastfeeding-friendly workplaces of 2010 will be announced on WEOL 930AM. In addition, top winners will be recognized at the World Breastfeeding Week celebration at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on August 2. <br />
The Lorain County Breastfeeding Coalition is committed to promote, preserve, and protect breastfeeding. Statistics show that 53% of mothers return to the work force within the first year after delivering a child, and most of them do so in the first six months. It is crucial that mothers return to workplaces that offer the opportunity to continue to provide breastmilk for their babies. Research shows that one-day absences to care for sick children occur more than twice as often for mothers of formula feeding infants; resulting in higher absenteeism rates and higher healthcare costs <br />
Not only is breastfeeding the healthiest choice for mother and baby, it is the best choice for employers' budgets! The US Department of Health & Human Services states that the payoff for supporting breastfeeding is significant; resulting in more satisfied, loyal employees and cost savings to the business. Savings seen in such areas as: <br />
<br />
• Retention of experienced employees; <br />
<br />
• Reduction in sick time taken by both moms and dads for children’s illnesses; and <br />
<br />
• Lower health care and insurance costs. <br />
Anyone can nominate a business, whether you are an employee currently breastfeeding or retired, a spouse of an employee, a co-worker, a supervisor, a boss, or a patron of the business. To nominate a worksite, visit www.loraincobreastfeeds.org and submit the online application. A hard copy application can be obtained by calling the EMH Breastfeeding Warmline at 440.329.7466. To be considered for the 2010 Breastfeeding-friendly Workplace awards, <strong>please submit all applications by Friday, July 2, 2010. </strong><br />
<br />
</blockquote>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-102777518433647532010-06-10T21:53:00.000-04:002010-06-11T03:19:20.871-04:00I Believe...in that which I cannot see<br />
in love<br />
in Christ<br />
in hope<br />
that one can change-- truly change<br />
<br />
What is hard to believe is how quickly life goes by. Three years ago today the world changed. Tears fell and hearts wept... Brett's cousin was killed while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. A1C Eric M. Barnes went to be with the Lord three years ago today.<br />
<br />
I remember the day like it was yesterday. It was a Sunday. We got a call- early. Brett and I were enjoying one of our final days sleeping in and rolling around leisurely in bed. I was 9 months pregnant with B. I had lost my job one week prior. Eric had been killed. Shock. Disbelief. True heart ACHE. We hurried off to be with our family. All gathered on Brett's aunt and uncle's front lawn. So many gathered. Family, friends, teens, adults, and tiny tots. Eric was gone. <br />
<br />
It's still so sobering to think about. <br />
<br />
If you have ever met Eric's parents or his brother then you have had the privilege of meeting strength, courage, love and hope in the flesh. They are amazing. I want to be like Eric's Mom in so many ways. She is a pillar of strength, yet vulnerable to her emotions and compassionate to others at all times. She rests in the arms of Christ, in the faith that her firstborn is also-- just as I type-- resting safely in the arms of Jesus. <br />
<br />
I wish I would have gotten to know Eric better. His legacy lives on always. Each year on the anniversary of his death, we will celebrate his LIFE. Just as we did tonight. Family, friends, adults, and <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background: yellow;">lil</span> tots gathered to celebrate- hug, laugh, and cry. As I nursed L in the family's living room, surrounded by red, white and blue, eagles, photos of Eric, and American flag clad decor, I couldn't help but to weep. <br />
<br />
Forget the P90x diet. Tonight I enjoyed a red-white-and blue-sprinkled-star-shaped sugar cookie tonight. Eric totally would have wanted me to! <br />
<br />
Cheers to you Eric! You will always be remembered. A1C Eric M. Barnes... a true HERO. Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-13184200214720632772010-06-04T07:42:00.002-04:002010-06-04T20:31:03.603-04:00HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">HAPPY 6th Birthday to Oscar! Oh how I miss you buddy.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4UYXpQGjugbOodQ41A4MkWoxuU-8D9p-NRnj8k6LzvvnZyhH6e9f5-h2-aOGzeoqhr-GA2rs2UUQts_zZ1OoPgNmc6q5C_x-OKIziMo8sm8i1oeM5Llh37abyijzAKCHW2_ZD7b-cXU/s1600/All+photos+075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs4UYXpQGjugbOodQ41A4MkWoxuU-8D9p-NRnj8k6LzvvnZyhH6e9f5-h2-aOGzeoqhr-GA2rs2UUQts_zZ1OoPgNmc6q5C_x-OKIziMo8sm8i1oeM5Llh37abyijzAKCHW2_ZD7b-cXU/s320/All+photos+075.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Oscar was our very first "baby." He was oh so precious to us. Then the kids came... still precious, but I just didn't have as much tolerance for his shenanigans and barking. </div><br />
If you're wondering what happened to Oscar. Well, he bit Bryce around Thanksgiving last year (09). That was it we had to get rid of him. If you know my background of being attacked by a dog as a little girl you understand. Oscar now lives with one of Brett's co-workers from the hospital. He fits right into their family (no young children- perfect) and is doing just great. Brett and I miss him terribly. <br />
And I know our other dog, Brutus does as well. <br />
<br />
Below are some photos of Osc during his younger years. Enjoy!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This shark costume would make me and Brett laugh SO hard. Really, it was hillarious. As soon as we Osc was in full shark-attack garb he wouldfreeze as if he were a statue. Only his eyes would move back and forth, from side to side. Ha. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUAbAIfCclGhBnQ9WBiD9bwUS6uS28n_rZeUU2EuuwoSA7bWdylIMbDTAPa4nJlnEJoF8rsWZF504P9uxpTOvcB650wiCRSxBLyYwrER8yYPRMykgJlO5AcuSpCyoRVER_S-HBRMSBdsU/s1600/All+photos+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUAbAIfCclGhBnQ9WBiD9bwUS6uS28n_rZeUU2EuuwoSA7bWdylIMbDTAPa4nJlnEJoF8rsWZF504P9uxpTOvcB650wiCRSxBLyYwrER8yYPRMykgJlO5AcuSpCyoRVER_S-HBRMSBdsU/s320/All+photos+025.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Me and lil Osc... our first summer of marriage and our first summer with Oscar. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdN4xHOmJ12d9XCHv5mSg2mCUexEtONhrmpehSEg5FJteIZLSvi5o-7Zv2Ms57svU-Ce4-g2FKplOJC3WZj0Vyr24ZmaEhHwbl8iInkNP5Y0lbr7qWnAnBQbYNnZbN66pmc_A1mjvMONY/s1600/All+photos+099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdN4xHOmJ12d9XCHv5mSg2mCUexEtONhrmpehSEg5FJteIZLSvi5o-7Zv2Ms57svU-Ce4-g2FKplOJC3WZj0Vyr24ZmaEhHwbl8iInkNP5Y0lbr7qWnAnBQbYNnZbN66pmc_A1mjvMONY/s320/All+photos+099.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Osc checking out the neighborhood from the front porch. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisf5SnFh_d3CvxZr4_ufyfWZnJ4z25sDQVMvyGRdyS5Q1qP2e2Bsmo5edS7CS2IZeB1BKvYuWNQFL_1jDGOLMk8l1n1hKHl2fpTk5pSVsGMVTUo5VFdqLYW1hMqP0qRvIYk0WQMfW4KEo/s1600/All+photos+128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisf5SnFh_d3CvxZr4_ufyfWZnJ4z25sDQVMvyGRdyS5Q1qP2e2Bsmo5edS7CS2IZeB1BKvYuWNQFL_1jDGOLMk8l1n1hKHl2fpTk5pSVsGMVTUo5VFdqLYW1hMqP0qRvIYk0WQMfW4KEo/s320/All+photos+128.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> You are missed Oscar. Cheers to you Oscki Pooski!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolIFsPUBke0Adq5cc6zXFLD7U-SEAwep7zXEgBKBQyYSlZhGp-Vidz3WBycz19O9P4jssLjZk0Qo70Uap9B2PcK5AkWOwDcUBlB7xv6I8ZlcKopUThx9fEZrMs7Sw-YapSZhagQ5R0sc/s1600/DSC00463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolIFsPUBke0Adq5cc6zXFLD7U-SEAwep7zXEgBKBQyYSlZhGp-Vidz3WBycz19O9P4jssLjZk0Qo70Uap9B2PcK5AkWOwDcUBlB7xv6I8ZlcKopUThx9fEZrMs7Sw-YapSZhagQ5R0sc/s320/DSC00463.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-78915088027991751372010-06-03T19:42:00.001-04:002010-06-04T20:31:20.789-04:00The best laid plans...So what began as a disappointing morning filled with pure defiance and disobedience turned into a pretty productive and enjoyable day (post nap time!). <br />
<br />
Our morning had planned to go as follows: Breakfast with Brett, and then off to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History with my girlfriend and her boys, lunch in the car on the way home and nap time... What actually happened included lots of disobedience, defiance, yelling and tears, which led to me canceling the outing planned with our friends. Robert Burns was right... "The best laid plans of mice and men often go astray."<br />
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One thing that is clear-- punishment for children is usually doubly sucky for the parents! So off we went as a family to run errands, rather than exploring dinosaur fossils and playing with friends. It was a very rough morning. Rough seems to have become a common theme around here lately. Oy parenthood can be so challenging, but I know the payoff far outweighs the hard times. <br />
<br />
The bright spots of the day included:<br />
<ul><li>Hugs and kisses from the kiddos and Brett</li>
<li>A lovely little package from the UPS man... filled with the wonder of Sephora</li>
<li>A Northern Lite from Caribou- one for me and one for Brett</li>
<li>Eating WILD ALASKAN SALMON for dinner. Delish!</li>
</ul>Now I'm off to do Yoga X... Bring it on P90x!Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-52560914463424130732010-06-01T06:55:00.002-04:002010-06-02T19:19:10.834-04:00DHA and ARA: Should be the equivilant of four-letter wordsIf you keep up on the latest news regarding infant and child nutrition standards then you're probably familar with the fact that synthetic DHA and ARA, common addatives in infant formula, have been widely debated for a number of years-- questioning their safety and overall effectiveness. Recently the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) passed a ban on DHA and ARA in all organic foods, including organic infant formula. <br />
<br />
I wrote a post back in January '08 on the subject of safety, or the lack-there-of, in regard to synthetic DHA and ARA... <a href="http://mama-kate.blogspot.com/2008/01/lab-made-dha-and-ara-unsafe-for-infants.html">check it out</a>. Unfortunately the facts are still true today, over two years later.<br />
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I'm not here to reinvent the wheel... so, be sure to head over to <a href="http://www.babygooroo.com/index.php/2010/05/23/usda-calls-for-removal-of-dhaara-from-organic-formula/">babygooroo.com</a> to read an excellent <a href="http://www.babygooroo.com/index.php/2010/05/23/usda-calls-for-removal-of-dhaara-from-organic-formula/">article</a> on the new ban. It's a very good read! Some of the highlights include... <br />
<blockquote><em>The process will include a 60-day period for public comment, and could take a year or longer</em> [for the ban to be fully implemented].</blockquote><blockquote>Re: the marketing of infant formula...</blockquote><blockquote><em>If they included synthetic versions of these oils (manufactured under the names DHASCO and ARASCO) in infant formula, the companies could assuage parents’ concerns about their baby’s development while suggesting that formula is “as close as ever to breast milk.” As noted in a Martek investment promotion from 1996 (and quoted in the Cornucopia Institute’s report), “Even if [the DHA/ARA blend] has no benefit, we think it would be widely incorporated into formulas, as a marketing tool and to allow companies to promote their formula as ‘closest to human milk.’”</em><br />
<em>In fact, leading formula manufacturer Mead Johnson admits on its Enfamil website that numerous scientific studies have shown little or no benefit to infant development, lending support to the theory that inclusion of these oils is just a marketing gimmick—much like the inclusion of prebiotics.</em><br />
<em><br />
</em><br />
<em>Unfortunately, it seems to be an effective gimmick. The percentage of people who agreed that “infant formula and breastfeeding are equally good ways of feeding an infant” doubled from 12 percent to 24 percent between 2003 and 2004, when the formula companies began advertising their supplemented formulas.</em></blockquote><br />
Natural DHA and ARA are totally safe... want to provide them au natural to your baby? Breastfeed.Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-24701634852340142862010-05-31T21:50:00.001-04:002010-06-04T20:30:16.137-04:00Mad About Mama Milk Monday: Relactating in HaitiIt has been nearly five months since the devestating earthquake ocurred in Haiti on January 12, 2010. Check out <a href="http://www.iycn.org/country-spotlight-2.php#solange">this article</a> of a nurse's account on maternal and infant care, including breastfeeding successes and myths in the Haitian cultural. Myths including belief that breastmilk goes bad after a mother experiences an emotional shock, and successes on relactation.<br />
<br />
Hats off to the US Agency for International Development's (USAID) Infant and Young Child Nutrition (IYCN) Project for their work to improve nutrition for mothers, infants and young children and prevent the transmission of HIV to lil ones.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><em>Celebrating the power of Mama Milk around the Globe... </em></span><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: large;"><em>Happy Nursing Mamas!</em></span>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-13818343894488222472010-05-28T15:06:00.000-04:002010-05-28T15:07:19.525-04:00Choo choo...<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzN_xuHE09GoU6DJbQA8n2L1uuh8GO1R4166k_nyH57zG-f1yVA16NgBa9InNxhIX8Q_zLaiAl-9viDTf7YyqlKafNk_Z8kUyFJeySjjspyDGpsq1Fq9QgMuEFWWpBzeYrtSwW47p9e_M/s1600/Thomas+Train+Ride+5-10+006.jpg"><img border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzN_xuHE09GoU6DJbQA8n2L1uuh8GO1R4166k_nyH57zG-f1yVA16NgBa9InNxhIX8Q_zLaiAl-9viDTf7YyqlKafNk_Z8kUyFJeySjjspyDGpsq1Fq9QgMuEFWWpBzeYrtSwW47p9e_M/s400/Thomas+Train+Ride+5-10+006.jpg" /></a><br /><br />B & my Mom had a great outing this morning to ride Thomas the Train. What fun for any two-year-old boy and any Gramma!</div><br />Because I know I don't say it often enough, <strong>Thank you</strong> to those who serve our Country and to those who sacrificed everything for my freedom. Especially remembering Brett's cousin this Memorial Day... Airman 1st Class Eric M. Barnes, killed while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom on June 10, 2007. We'll always remember!<br /><br />HAPPY long holiday weekend everyone!<div style='clear:both; text-align:CENTER'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-53845712522809980092010-05-17T12:47:00.000-04:002010-05-17T12:47:58.925-04:00Mad About Mama Milk Monday: DuctsWell it's Monday! And, I don't know about you but I'm still Mad About Mama Milk(ing)! <br />
<br />
It's been so busy around here lately... Monday's arrived and my MAMMM post has not. It happens.<br />
<br />
News about my Milk?! I have a plugged duct. L? She has a plugged nose. But we're surviving. Word to wise on plugged milk ducts. Nurse, nurse, nurse... warm compress (while nursing), or a warm bath just before or while nursing your bambino. Oh, and did I mention you should keep nursing? If things worsen or don't clear up within a few days be sure to see your physician. <br />
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Oh and one thing unrelated to breastfeeding, I started P90x this morning. I feared I would vommit. Luckily, I did not. Not only did I not puke, I actually survived! Bring It On! Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-27444826446556039052010-05-13T19:56:00.001-04:002010-05-13T19:58:49.955-04:00More of this...<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">is what I hope to experience this weekend. <br />
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More smiles, giggles, kisses, tickles, raspberries, zerberts, hand holding, and snuggling.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeG3yeHS6ih5HpKLKka0OkJPJqC61gMQ1TU4NJbd-bLZLeDx11EaRF17Ios3SctumkKtLMOcXzrrSQCu6Q8vHFeYV725NFtso88J9Mrdqi4rrmLBjkhFInBckPP_7CdeqOMwXW22sROAk/s1600/Easter+Weekend+10.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeG3yeHS6ih5HpKLKka0OkJPJqC61gMQ1TU4NJbd-bLZLeDx11EaRF17Ios3SctumkKtLMOcXzrrSQCu6Q8vHFeYV725NFtso88J9Mrdqi4rrmLBjkhFInBckPP_7CdeqOMwXW22sROAk/s400/Easter+Weekend+10.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Is there anything better?!<br />
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Happy weekend to you!</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: 0% 50%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" /></a></div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-5705494097419672322010-05-10T07:17:00.001-04:002010-05-10T07:27:23.231-04:00Mad About Mama Milk Monday: a pumptastic giveaway!<a href="http://www.people.com/">People magazine's</a> online celebrity baby blog <a href="http://celebritybabies.people.com/">Moms & Babies</a> is running a pumptastic giveaway. M&B has paired up with <a href="http://simplisse.com/">Simplisse</a> to give away five Breastfeeding Starter Packages (valued at $152!). <a href="http://celebritybabies.people.com/2010/05/10/giveaway-a-simplisse-breastfeeding-prize-package-152-value/?cat=deals-gear">Click here</a> to enter to win.<br />
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The Breastfeeding Starter Packages include:<br />
Manual Breastfeeding Companion ($40), Disposable Breast Pads ($11), EssenLactation Supplements ($40), Breastmilk Storage Bags ($8), Nipple Cream ($18), Breast Pump Cleaning Wipes ($18), Washable Breast Pads ($11) and Microwave Steam Sterilizer Bags ($6).<br />
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What a great opportunity to support breastfeeding-- way to go People! Breast wishes to win!<br />
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<em><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><strong>Happy Nursing Mamas!</strong></span></em>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-17770832376273313212010-05-09T20:22:00.000-04:002010-05-09T20:22:21.492-04:00Motherhood<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">So today is <span style="font-size: large;">the</span> day. The day set aside to remember, honor and celebrate motherhood. And really, where would we be without our M-O-M? For me, once I become a Mama I began to understand the love of a parent. Once I had L I really understood- I got it. Motherhood, to me, represents an all-encompassing love. A sacrificial-I'd-do-anything-for-you kind of love. When you love someone with your entire being it makes you want to be a better person, a kinder, patient and more gentle person. Even still, with the desire to be better and do better... gosh it is hard! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Personally I think I put even more pressure on myself because I truly long to be a good example to my kids. As parents, we're the foundation of all they learn, know, and value. I certainly don't want to screw that up! <span style="font-size: large;">Thankfully</span> we're teaching our kiddos that their entire existance is because of God and that through Christ we can be made new. Teaching my kids about Christ's sacrifice, unceasing love (way more than I even love them, which seems entirely unfathomable) and forgiveness takes (some) pressure off of me. I'm not perfect, and as B&L get older I know they'll be the first to remind me! :-) </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Daily I'm reminded that if I want my kids to be loving, kind, patient, slow to anger, and compassionate... I need to <span style="font-size: large;">set the example</span>. As a Mama I find myself, more now than ever, seeking help from God for extra doses of strength, patience, love and compassion to get me through the day.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Mother's Day is no different from any other day. Today there was a melting pot of activities and emotions- good and bad. B had a stellar performance at church! During service the pastor's wife came and got me because B had an accident. Off I went to perform my motherly duty of cleaning and changing. We had a delish lunch with our Moms at Panera. And on the way home we pulled over so B could poop in our porta-potty, which left a rather pungent smell for the remainder of the trip. Nap time, play time, dinner made by yours truly (just had to add that), followed by a walk with the kiddos and a cookie... life is good. Throw in a few tantrums, some tears, lots of <span style="font-size: large;">hugs <span style="font-size: small;">and</span> kisses</span> and the day was complete. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Completely great. Completely not perfect. <span style="font-size: large;">Complete.</span> Because I got to celebrate and reflect on motherhood... the good, the bad and the ugly. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em><span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;">Hope you had a fabulous Mama's Day too!</span></em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOA2DFQfSprffiPcPSHeG3LSKSRPyxJ3LNplb47lrHftLFGC4lmfu_ID-vaxwHsqYMOByRUWQNwBafZBQn_hpXbtI5OOW-U65zWPglFVMhsYkUXIan8vN13Iph_UnRg1XM97GtRQrNE0E/s1600/April+096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOA2DFQfSprffiPcPSHeG3LSKSRPyxJ3LNplb47lrHftLFGC4lmfu_ID-vaxwHsqYMOByRUWQNwBafZBQn_hpXbtI5OOW-U65zWPglFVMhsYkUXIan8vN13Iph_UnRg1XM97GtRQrNE0E/s320/April+096.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwXQUDhRpfcTNJIBjk3xdjemU3Es1jHXQ9uKdry9kcISJ_z8be6JNWsgNwAcWUg6JSCemgzKMNWtA0V3oCxruEoc10FXpvopno_jVhuixI1lwq-F6WaYqUwuwEt1nJi8Mqh3HrYGSRqE/s1600/April%20092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwXQUDhRpfcTNJIBjk3xdjemU3Es1jHXQ9uKdry9kcISJ_z8be6JNWsgNwAcWUg6JSCemgzKMNWtA0V3oCxruEoc10FXpvopno_jVhuixI1lwq-F6WaYqUwuwEt1nJi8Mqh3HrYGSRqE/s320/April%20092.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-16290650221983650452010-05-06T21:06:00.000-04:002010-05-06T21:06:20.750-04:00It's the little things...<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px"><br />L<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vyU7bDmzggh8zmMNwqfM2U8m6eauYVU954tFvNLZL11OGm5Sv8lm8IeZrOqSnplryefKS8_JkFknTqUFNnc6cdsdXwSGnr1b2UM_ZOa0hEIjHON94H6fyd5Do2cxKaUqZ1PFqclQsyA/s1600/April+137.jpg"><img border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vyU7bDmzggh8zmMNwqfM2U8m6eauYVU954tFvNLZL11OGm5Sv8lm8IeZrOqSnplryefKS8_JkFknTqUFNnc6cdsdXwSGnr1b2UM_ZOa0hEIjHON94H6fyd5Do2cxKaUqZ1PFqclQsyA/s400/April+137.jpg" /></a> </div><br /><br />Today's highlights...<br /><br />Getting the kids up and ready for the day.<br />Treating myself to an iced-mocha-something-er-another... delish and only 100 calories!<br />Getting a mid-day sneak-peek of L at the sitter's. Had to make an emergency stop on my lunch hour because the sitter was totally out of milk! Oops! <br />Working virtually-- all day!<br />Singing ALL the way home from the sitter's.<br />Nursing L to sleep. So sweet and so special- time for just us!<br />Bedtime... essential to harmony, peace, joy and happiness.<br /><br />So glad the weekend is near. Plans include getting L's 6-month photos taken. However, I'm definitely behind since I have yet to mail out her 3-month photos! Also looking forward to a stellar performance by the preschool and school-aged munchkins at church, followed by Mother's Day lunch out. :-) <br /><br />Hope you have a lovely weekend and a very happy Mama's Day!<div style='clear:both; text-align:CENTER'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-71729808465325102592010-05-03T14:08:00.002-04:002010-05-03T14:09:53.848-04:00Mad About Mama Milk Monday: Ready, Set, Go!L recently started solids. Her first food... oatmeal. <br />
Seems fitting since everyone in our family is obsessed with all things oat related!<br />
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Seriously though... I'm a total slacker when it comes to offering solids. At least at this young age and stage. It's WAY easier to just offer breast milk. And, babies should still be receiving the majority of their nutrients from breast milk anyways! Whew... Oh by the way-- it's important to offer breast milk first, then food to keep your supply up and ensure that baby fills up on liquid gold. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRe-H8KzhycfFLge7d44Nt0FuKkI8MLPOk24JyinT8qmVPQXuxcFftAUjFMR88C1onY6vuYwe8rw47kC1U7AuhKyQZOWWpZv6-CownOfcxEMK9cpsHoRK9JUsQ3WoHsIu93SpN1D4VrbU/s1600/April+060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRe-H8KzhycfFLge7d44Nt0FuKkI8MLPOk24JyinT8qmVPQXuxcFftAUjFMR88C1onY6vuYwe8rw47kC1U7AuhKyQZOWWpZv6-CownOfcxEMK9cpsHoRK9JUsQ3WoHsIu93SpN1D4VrbU/s400/April+060.jpg" tt="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div></div>It is a milestone when babies begin eating solid foods! Nevertheless, it's not a milestone to rush into. Our family believes in delaying solids until at least 6 months of age because of a variety of reasons. <a href="http://mama-kate.blogspot.com/2008/01/adventures-in-eating.html">Check out</a> when B-man started solids.<br />
<div>Delaying solids... </div><br />
<ul><li>Breast milk during the first 6 months of life is crucial; giving him the healthiest start with optimal nutrients.</li>
<li>Makes starting solids easier. Babies who start solids later are less likely to have food allergies. </li>
<li>Until Baby has good head, neck and core control helps to increase safety while eating. </li>
<li>Takes advantage of natural child-spacing. Preventing pregnancy is most effective when babies are fed exclusively at the breast. </li>
</ul>Looking for tasty recipes to offer baby? Check out <a href="http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/">Wholesome Baby Food</a>. They have great tips for starting solids, and a variety of yummy healthy options to offer your baby!<br />
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Want to read further on the importance in healthy, colorful foods? <a href="http://mama-kate.blogspot.com/2008/02/importance-of-variety-of-healthy.html">Check it.</a><br />
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<em><strong><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">Happy Nursing Mamas!</span></strong></em>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-13116083717416466862010-04-28T14:39:00.001-04:002010-04-28T14:40:24.280-04:00GAP Outlet Store... Go BANANAS Over Savings for the Whole Family!Around B's first birthday our family went on a shopping search for some fresh "duds" to bring a boost to our spring and summer wardrobe. When we're looking for deals we typically go outlet shopping to <a href="http://www.lodioutlets.net/">Lodi Station Outlets</a>. One our must-stop-shops is the GAP Outlet store. We find great deals there for the whole family! This particular shopping trip was no different. In fact, I remember getting three pairs of cropped chinos in white, navy and tan, Camouflage shorts for Brett, and <u>lots</u> of short-sleeved onesies for B! We find great deals at shoe outlet stores, too. On this same shopping trip I snagged some fabulous "boat shoe" slides-- love them! In fact, I'm wearing my boat shoes as I type this post! I can't imagine how much money we saved during that trip. Outlet shopping is a must for families! <br />
If you have little ones, <a href="http://www.lodioutlets.net/">Lodi Stations</a> is a great place to go for a day of family time and shopping. They have a wonderful train system that goes throughout the property. It's incredibly inexpensive to take the kiddos on a train ride.<br />
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Click on the widget below to take extra 15% off on purchases over $75 at the <strong>Gap Outlet</strong> (that’s on top of 50% savings on select styles), plus an extra 15% off on purchases over $100 at the <strong>Banana Republic Factory Store</strong> (that’s on top of an up to 50% savings on women’s clothing)!<br />
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<center><a href="http://gap.twittermoms.com/">Gap Twitter Discount</a></center><script src="http://cdn.widgetserver.com/syndication/subscriber/InsertWidget.js" type="text/javascript">
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</script><center><a href="http://gap.twittermoms.com/">Exclusive Gap Outlet and Banana Republic Factory Store Savings</a></center><br />
I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Gap Outlet blogging program to be eligible to get a $20 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click <a href="http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/exclusive-twittermoms-discount">here</a>.Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2554548113650482347.post-48891505287396433932010-04-27T23:41:00.000-04:002010-04-27T23:41:37.596-04:00If you're happy and you know it...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Smile! :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx4pbkdwGiqgsWv3kGVzgJEb2Ui57Lz1Mky0dUXvscHzVsGsflrYiki-D1a8nG41tScqDbg7D9BkF4NT2jMFw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hope this brings a smile to your face.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Mama Katehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05392525196088016886noreply@blogger.com0