Mama Kate

Mama's back for round two...

2009-09-23T20:18:00.004-04:00

Wow, after both a short existence in the blog sphere and an even longer hiatus from it-- I'm back. Lots has changed in the last 10 months. We've all done some growing up in our household, particularly Bryce. And I've done some growing "out." (see evidence in photo below)

Now in my final few weeks of pregnancy I'm looking forward to this new chapter. Life seems to be like one long and addicting book. One that you just can't quite put down because you HAVE to know what's next on the pages ahead. Although, I'm sure there are days and periods of time when each of us just want to put a bookmark in place, and PAUSE.

The last few months have posed both periods of addictive-just-one-more-page-excitement and also weeks wanting to superglue a bookmark into the book of life and disengage from reality, perhaps into an actual novel. But for now, I am happily awaiting the birth of my second and last child. What bliss, adventure and love a new life brings into the world.

Check back often for family/life updates, breastfeeding beginnings with a new nursling, and the latest tantrums from a mama of a two-year-old!

Mo' please Ma!

2008-11-17T20:30:00.005-05:00

I recently made pumpkin soup and wanted to share some photos prooving just
how much Bryce enjoyed it! Thanks to Gail Lawley for her very delish recipe...
it is a annual Fall staple in our house!

Please Note: Clean shirt, and let me mention that
Bryce is just starting to get the knack of utilizing eating utensils!

Mmm... my Mama knows how to make some gooood food!

Whew... I've got some more left in there!

I LOVE PUMPKIN SOUP!

Good to the last drop!

O-H-I-O

2008-11-26T14:49:00.005-05:00

In our household, much like countless others across Buckeye Country, are true, die-hard OSU football fans. This past weekend we went to the OSU v Michigan game in Columbus. While this wasn't my first OSU game, it was my first Michigan game and it was fantastic! We had a blast with friends and family! Before the game I went the to the skull session with my uncle and cousin Aaron, second year nursing student at OSU, which was a fun time listening to the best damn band in the land. Following the game and thawing out my ~~ice blocks~~ feet, we went to Thurman's Cafe for the biggest and best burgers! Despite the frigid temps in the twenties... it was a fun time. And the best part... we beat Michigan, 42-7!

Me & Brett freezing our buckeyes off at the game!

Human v Cow: Ongoing milk debate

2008-09-27T10:30:00.004-04:00

Perhaps you've heard in the news this past week about the outrageous request submitted by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) to Ben & Jerry's ice cream's brand founders, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, urging them to replace the cow's milk in its products with human milk. I am all for ethical treatment of animals (although I do eat meat and dairy products, wear leather, and yell at my dogs), but let's not sacrifice human milk intended to sustain babies for the sake of cows! As I'm writing this blog I feel a tad hypocritical... if a cow had the mental function of humans, how would a mama cow feel about shipping her milk off to feed humans? the question may sound obsurd, but is it really?

"The fact that human adults consume huge quantities of dairy products made from milk that was meant for a baby cow just doesn't make sense," said PETA Exec VP Tracy Reiman. "Everyone knows that 'the breast is best,' so Ben & Jerry's could do consumers and cows a big favor by making the switch to breast milk." I see Reiman's point, which is partially why my 15-month-old son still has not had cow's milk. I figure that at this point he is (more than) willing to have Mama Milk twice a day and there is no need to give cow milk, filled with hormones, puss, etc... Don't get me wrong- I love cow's milk and was obsessed, quite literally, while pregnant.

I digress. The point I want to make is-- that what is more important, more valuable and more enriching to society? A cow and it's milk used to feed it's young and produce ~~fattening, artery-clogging~~ delicious, intoxicating ice cream OR a Mama and her life-sustaining milk for her child (not to mention, calorie burning and cancer risk reducing for Mama)? Other benefits of cows include, the food-, financial-, and sustaining-source that cows represent to many Africans villages, and how just recently homes in an Eco-village of west Wales are making plans to use cow dung as a source of energy.

If nothing else was accomplished through this ~~publicity stunt~~ ethical call to action, breast milk was once again brought to light reinforcing it's importance in society, families, and the tummys of children worldwide!

*I have to give major props to PETA and Bill Maher for their stellar Breast Milk ad... check it out!

I HEART Baby/Kids Resales!

2008-09-20T20:55:00.006-04:00

If you're familiar with kids resales, typically sponsored by and funds raised for local PTAs and church groups, then you understand the almost "cult-like" following that they can have. At least the really good resales have this. I would not put myself in the category- at least not yet, but I would consider myself to be a resale-groupie! While pregnant I was introduced to my first kids resales- two in one morning with my mom and my aunt. That morning I spent a whopping 25 cents on "Feed me I'm yours."

Since that first experience I have learned a few things about baby/kids resales and here are some suggestions...

Check the status of your current clothing and toy inventory. I'd rather spend my money on something that we need or don't have rather than duplicate items.

Make a list mentally or on paper before attending the resale. Ask yourself: What do I need for the coming season (clothing, shoes, toys, etc)? What size will s/he be needing in the next 6 months?

Think about some larger ticket items that perhaps you might want or think would be a welcome addition, but wouldn't normally buy... jogging stroller, kids picnic table, chalkboard, etc. If you're a good treasure hunter and if you're lucky, you can often times find great items! So if you're mentally prepared to look for those items on your wish list you may have a better chance at being successful!

Talk to other mamas to find out which baby resales are the cream of the crop. Believe me there are some duds out there-- I've been to a few! By asking friends and family which locations are the best you'll save yourself time, money and frustration!
Enjoy the hunt! Yes, you'll find lots of things that do not meet your standard of quality, taste, size-needs-- and the list goes on. But, you'll also find those diamonds in the rough that make it all worthwhile.
Two words: Mommy time! It's a fun time out with other mamas- friends and new faces! So grab a cup of Joe and your best girl friend or mom and head to kids resale nearest you!

Babies are generally clean and grow so quickly. Often times not giving the opportunity to "wear things out," which is why many mamas (and papas) shop resales. If you find good quality, gently used items no one will notice the difference. For instance, Bryce wore his new G*ap overalls (shown below) this past week to the sitter and she comment how cute he looked in them. I told her I paid $3 for them and she was shocked, commenting "They look brand new!" Remember that most kids resales have an admission fee, typically $5 for early birds (that's me!) during the first hour and $2 following. This is all the more reason to choose your resales wisely.

Here are the things I bought last weekend for a total of $37.50:

G*ap jean overalls $3
Firetruck rain jacket $3
Two G*erber basic oneises .50
Child*ren's Place sweater $3
G*ap snowman sweater $3
G*ap rugby polo $2
Striped full-zip shirt $2
Tal*bots Kids red winter turtleneck $2
G*ap white winter turtleneck (not shown) $2
Melis*a & Doug stackable wooden animal pull-along $5 (retails for $15)
Chic*co Bilingual Smart Driver $3 (retails for $29.99)
Duck costume (not shown... Halloween surprise!) $7

B-man loves "driving" with me in the car.

How cute are these animals?!!

Check out the following links for upcoming resales in Northeastern Ohio:

A much needed vaca!

2008-09-03T20:00:00.004-04:00

We all survived Bryce's first trip on an airplane, which ended up being a serene and relaxing time for all thanks to a wee little dose of Benadryl and mama milk! The three of us flew to the east coast to spend Labor Day weekend with my family. Bryce had a wonderful time with his two older cousins, Grandad, Sue, and Uncle Tag. It had been nearly 2 1/2 years since I last saw my Dad, brother, niece and nephew so I was extremely excited to see everyone as well.

Our weekend adventure consisted of lots of playing: swinging- on swings and from ropes, wagon-pulling, bubble-blowing, wrestling, tickling, raindrop-dodging, ice cream-licking, sandcastle-building, crab-"hunting", seashell-finding, sand-digging, cartoon-watching, Lego tower-building and destroying (Bryce), ocean swimming, arcade playing, and much much more! It was a wonderful weekend playing like a kid with three of my FAVORITE kids in the world!

It truly are the simple things in life like opening and closing a gate 2 bazillion times because walking is fun and new (Bryce), taking countless baths because you think you're a bathing beauty/mermaid (I, my three-year-old niece), and swinging from a tree-rope like George of the Jungle (E, my five-year-old nephew) that make life exciting, memorable, and happy. Remember the world does not revolve around updated databases, raises and promotions, or whether or not the house was vacuumed this ~~month~~ week.

This weekend gave us the chance to relax and enjoy the simple things in life, including our dear family and friends. As you can see from the photos below, we had a splendid time. And Bryce certainly did enjoy experiencing new sights (the vast ocean), sounds (airplane jets up close and personal), and tastes (Clam Chowda!).

I HEART vacations!

My dear brother Tag with E- what handsome dudes!

Our little mermaid, I.

Bryce eating an entire banana with help from Grandad!

Jammin in the kitchen... Bryce is their band groupie!

So much sand, so little time.

Not a good photo of the two of us, but it's all I've got as proof of my existence on vaca.

No your eyes aren't failing... that really is Bryce (and Sue) sleeping on the beach!

Hello?

2008-08-12T20:41:00.003-04:00

Yes, we're still alive and going strong in OH-IO! Truthfully I've been feeling a little burned out on everything lately! Including my quasi-blog. :)

Of recent I've been asking myself-- "What really matters in life?" And while there could essentially be a gazillion answers to this somewhat deep question, the main two things that come to my mind over and over and over again are: God and my Family. So, if that is my answer then what am I doing to make sure I take full advantage of those things in life? Am I honoring my Lord every day- in thoughts, actions, and words? Do I show utmost respect and true Agape love to my husband at all times, even when he is crispy? How am I actively cherishing and loving on my son every moment we are together? Do I regularly reach out to my brothers and sisters in Christ? *sigh*

It's no surprise that working 40+ hours a week and squeezing every other waking moment with Bryce and Brett is enough in it of itself-- but then on top of all that I need to be living out a life honoring to my Father, which includes being a Proverbs 31 wife and a Proverbs 22:6 parent.

All this sure can make a person tired... and that's where I'm at. I'm just tired. No, this is not a pity-party. I just wanted to lay part of what has been on my heart out into the blogsphere.

Thank goodness I serve a God who promises to never leave me nor forsake me! His strength is what I need, and He quenches my thirst (and tiredness) better than an ice cold Diet Coke!

Let Freedom Ring...

2008-07-04T22:38:00.007-04:00

Happy Fourth of July!

We had a great holiday as a family! We spent a few splendid hours at the Zoo this morning. Bryce is at such a fun age-- so aware, interactive and curious! What fun! All three of us took an actual nap too! With work consuming so much of life, and for Brett- such an odd schedule, we really rarely have a day to simple do whatever we please. Today was the day! And isn't that the essence of freedom? To what you please, when you please, so long as it follows moral and legal code? (Alright, sure many people don't worry about those "codes," but they should!) :) Liberty, as defined by Wikipedia, is the condition in which an individual has the ability to act according to his or her own will.
How wonderful liberty is!

As Christians residing in the USA, we understand that although we have many freedoms in America, it is our freedoms in Christ that truly set us free! So on this Independence Day, yes give thanks to God for the men and women who have and continue to sacrifice for our freedoms, and also give praise to Jesus who paid the ultimate sacrifice to set us free from sin.
For true freedom is certainly not free...

How awesome is the photo above? The joey's leg is sticking out of it's Mama's pouch! I was so overly excited to see this first hand. AMAZING!!!

Hey Shorty It's Your Birthday, We're Gonna Party Like It's Your Birthday!

2008-06-18T13:10:00.005-04:00

Wrapped around Papa's finger from day one... 7 lbs 5 ozs

Our first family photo (I'm a little tired... can you tell?)

Today is my baby’s first birthday! I have an entirely different perspective of birthdays today. Maybe it’s because today is his first birthday, or perhaps it’s because since he was born the whole world seems like a different place… more important, more significant. Either way today is a day to celebrate his creation, birth and life! Obviously I am one proud Mama.

When I went into his room this morning, Bryce was standing in his crib talking to the window of course. I sang him “Happy Birthday” as he jumped on the mini-mattress and we hugged. He was SO happy this morning as if he knew it was his day.

It has been a year of great joy, some sorrow, lots of giggles, a few tears (OK, a lot of tears), lots of milk, not-so-much milk, growing pains for Mama and Papa, teething pains for Bryce (and at times for Mama!), thankful hearts, songs of praise, sleepless nights, sleep-through-the-night nights, and much much more.

I’m so looking forward to our years ahead. My hope and prayer is that Brett and I can help mold Bryce into young man of God, with respect for himself and others, and boundless energy and love to offer to the world.

Happy Birthday Baby!

On my way to Miss Sandy's.

Birthday kisses from Mama
Whew... birthday boys put in some long hours!

37 hours... a labor of love!

2008-06-17T07:12:00.007-04:00

Day One... Put a Fork in Me-- I'm Done!

It was one year ago today that I began my journey of 37 hours of labor leading up to Bryce's birth. I was induced at 40 weeks + plus one day because there was concern that Bryce might be a big baby-- perhaps too big for me to deliever. I was 9lbs 6 oz when I was born and my husband is 6'5", so the potential was definitely there! I won't bore you with the details of the induction and labor, but basically the induction didn't exactly "work" on the first day. So on day two (his birth day) we increased the pitocin and broke my water. Yikes! It was a roller coaster from that point on.

I just wanted to take a quick moment (before work) to reflect on today, because the first day of labor was a wonderful and empowering day for me, only to be topped by day two! :)

By the way, if I had to do all over again I would avoid induction at all cost. It gave a whole new meaning to the phrase "fast and furious!"

Arnold was right, "It's not a tumor!"

2008-05-27T19:49:00.007-04:00

Nearly seven months ago I found a lump in my left breast (gulp). At first I just shrugged it off while blaming it on my ever-changing size and density of my milking mounds. After several weeks and after talking with one of my lactation consultants I figured the lump was just a clogged milk duct. I tried to completely empty the breast, apply warm compress and massage it out and still- it was there. Finally in February, with no change, I decided I better see my Doc. After a round of labs and an ultrasound, and a few weeks of tortuous waiting my Doc told me it was an enlarged lymph node. Initially I was relieved, but after thinking about what the lymphatic system does I became more nervous. My Doc gave me a round of antibiotics, thinking that if the node was enlarged due to a virus the meds would get rid of it. No luck-- all the antibiotics did was give Bryce diarrhea. Doc also wanted to wait two months to see if there were any changes. Not feeling 100% comfortable with that, I went to my OB/GYN, Doc #2, since we've seen each other a lot in the last 20 months. He told me the node was enlarged from breastfeeding, since bacteria can be passed from mouth to breast.

I recently was treated for pneumonia, and while in for a check-up, with Doc #1, she asked about my lymph node. I told her it was indeed still there. She felt it again and thought it had actually gotten bigger.

SO, today I saw a surgeon, Doc #3. She was very nice, knowledgeable and to-the-point. I told her I was still nursing. And she asked how old Bryce was (he and Brett came to support me), and how long I planned to nurse. I replied, "11 months and indefinitely, but I realize that may need to change depending on what happens today." She quickly said, "Not necessarily at all. Let's just see." I liked that answer... that was what I had been wanting to hear from a Doc all along! (One doctor's office I called re: an appointment told me the physician wouldn't even touch me until I was finished nursing!) She checked both breasts and then we went in her office, where she showed me the ultrasound films and explained that it is a Benign lymph node. Doc #3 encouraged me to continue breastfeeding, and to plan to return for another ultrasound and exam in 6 months.

Finally... we know. One way or another. The past three months have been a roller coaster of emotions for me and Brett. I've been reluctant to say much to many people. Just didn't want to make a mountain out of a mole hill... at least not to anyone other than myself!

I just want to take a moment to remind people to follow your heart and your head when it comes to your health. No one knows your body like you do. You have to be your own advocate, because no one else will be. We live in an era where many physicians procedurize the heck out of every one and every thing, mainly due to malpractice and negligence. If you don't feel comfortable with a doctor or how your concerns were addressed or unaddressed, then seek a second opinion. Also keep in mind that there aren't always cut and dry answers. We still aren't 100% sure what has caused the enlarged lymph node.

Praise God it's not cancer! Praise God for creating WONDERFUL bodies-- for breasts that feed, hands that help, mouths that give thanks, and hearts that love!

Remember to do monthly breast exams. It's a simple thing, but one that many of us often "forget" to do. Get in tune with your body, so if things do change you're wise enough to investigate. I've decided that each month I am going to remind readers, all five of you :), to perform a breast exam. Starting now... go check those breasts!

Remembering a Loved One this Memorial Day

2008-05-25T20:46:00.005-04:00

This year, and for the remainder of Memorial Days to come, will be different. Of course I have always understood the importance of Memorial Day and the significance it holds for all Americans, but this year is different. On June 10, 2007, Brett's cousin Airman 1st Class Eric M. Barnes was killed in the line of duty while serving in Iraq. It was a devastating and tragic loss for our family and we still continue to grieve. This was Eric's second tour in Iraq, which he willingly signed up to serve. He loved his Country and believed in the cause. Please say a pray for his mom, dad and brother, as you can imagine how deep the pain runs in their hearts.

So as you enjoy a day off of work, perhaps while watching parades and cooking burgers on the grill-- remember those who have lost their lives for our Country, and those who have and are currently fighting for our freedom. Freedom is not free!

The latest shots...

2008-05-22T20:17:00.005-04:00

Play time with Mama and lil' B!

Off he goes!

Spaghetti with eggplant... yummy!

Some funnies...

2008-05-14T20:06:00.002-04:00

I recently saw this video clip on the Motherwear Blog, written by Tanya Lieberman. It is TOO funny! Take a couple minutes to watch it, and get ready for some belly laughs!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T13:40:00.003-04:00

Happy Mother's Day! This is my first Mother's Day as a Mama! And wouldn't you know it... I'm sick with pneumonia, so there won't be any fun trips around town today. (The Loft is having a big sale this weekend and it's killing me not to be there!) Despite being somewhat under the weather, I've had a great day so far. I awoke to my alarm clock-- I mean, Bryce-- around 6:15 a.m. Children are (typically) wonderful "alarm clocks" because they are always happy to see you. This morning was no different. In fact, and this is probably because I have the Delusional-First-Mother's-Day-Blur, I think Bryce was extra happy this morning... bouncing up and down in his yellow sleep sack just waiting for me to come in, scoop him up and shower him with hugs and kisses. Then we nursed, cooed and rubbed the sleep out of the corners of our eyes. Just a great start to the day! I did leave the house for a little bit this morning, just long enough to meet Brett and our Moms for breakfast.

I'm getting a lovely necklace for today's occasion from the Hazelnut Cottage. I love her things... check 'em out.

Even though I've only been a mama for less than a year, I am forever changed. When you become a parent the world looks entirely different.

I drive (somewhat) differently-- I only put on make-up at stoplights now.
I shop differently-- less often and more quickly with a specific purpose... no more window shopping.
I spend time differently-- Between work and Bryce who has time spend?
I look at my husband differently-- Brett is the best father I could have asked for for Bryce!
I think about my dogs differently-- at one time they were my babies... now they generally are an annoyance.
I look at the world different-- since having B we try to recycle every thing possible.
I look at Salvation differently-- although I've known for many years the importance of Salvation through Christ alone, it has been since becoming a Mama that I have tremendous desire to be sure that Bryce learns that Grace can be sufficient to fill all voids in his life.
I look at food differently-- the fresher and more colorful the better.
I look at education differently-- we must all work to make our schools better, safer and more inviting environments for all of our children. Education is not a luxury. It is a fundamental right.
I look at health differently-- we are not promised good health all (or any) days of our life.

I'm sure there are many things I've forgotten to mention. The bottom line is-- life has forever changed for the better!

I love being a mama! Sometimes, I swear I was born for the sole purpose of bringing Bryce into this world. Aside from becoming a child of King and marrying Brett- Bryce is my greatest accomplishment!

This quote is so wonderfully true:
When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. You are connected to your child and to all those who touch your lives. A mother always has to think twice: once of herself and once for her child. -- Sophia Loren

Happy Mother's Day!

Mother Song for You!

Squeaky Clean!

2008-04-29T20:29:00.002-04:00

From last night's bath... little did we know at the time that just a few hours later the B man would be up screaming bloody murder for over an hour. ***teething*** Inconsolable... not a sucker, not an ice cube, nor a cold washcloth, and not even nursing would calm this sweet thing down. Finally around midnight I decided to try the car. He fell asleep... I only got four hours of sleep. And the sleep I did get was spent on the floor of the living room with the door to the garage cracked so I could hear B when he woke from his slumber in the car. *humph* Hoping for a better night tonight! :)

Green can be easy

2008-04-28T19:46:00.003-04:00

While recently reading one of my favorite blogs, Crunchy Domestic Goddess, I read her green tip of week encouraging readers to shut down their computers at night. Makes sense, right? Just like humans, machines need breaks too. According to Amy at Crunchy Domestic Goddess, "By turning off your computer instead of leaving it in sleep mode, you can save 40 watt-hours per day. That adds up to 4 cents a day, or $14 per year. This will prevent carbon dioxide emissions from heating up the atmosphere (AKA global warming)."

With an extra $14 I could buy one of the following:

Almost a whole jumbo package of P*ampers diapers
A few new pairs of panties from Aunt Vicki's
A bottle of A*veda shampoo (Can you say Rosemary Mint?!)
A ticket admitting one adult into the zoo... plus a couple dollars to go toward an ice cream cone!

Amy also mentioned a blog that has 50 Ways to Help the Planet. This is a great site that has tons of easy-to-adapt-to green living ideas. Check it out!

Of the 50, I currently:

Recycle
Hang dry my clothes... mainly because I'm paranoid that things will shrink.
Wash in cold or warm 90% of the time
Can you say duplex when it comes to printing?
Use cruise control whenever possible
Lump as many errands into one trip as possible... also keeping in mind that this can be rather difficult with a 10-month-old in tow
Keep the fireplace damper closed (Be sure to open it when in use!)
Donate and buy re-sale items
Use rechargeable batteries

Ways I'd like to make an effort to do for Mother Earth (although, I'm not promising)

Not pre-heat the oven before baking/cooking. Truthfully I've always thought this was a waste of time and resources!
Use cloth diapers-- if I were a stay at home mom I would definitely go the cloth route, but frankly I don't have the time nor the energy to convince my husband and my sitter that it is a great alternative.
Telecommute!!! I'd love love love to do this! And, it would be totally possible with my job... *sigh* perhaps some day. For now I'll have to be patient, put in my time and pray

Pray...

2008-04-21T19:15:00.006-04:00

My dear friend April's best friend, Meredith is dying. Meredith was diagnosed in May 2006 with colorectal cancer . Meredith, who is 25 years old, is days away from her home going. While I've only met Meredith a handful of times through A and A's wedding, I can't help my heart from aching for her.

Please visit her Web site to read her journey of courage, strength and faith in God the Father. May peace, comfort and love overwhelm Meredith, her husband Justin, her parents, sister, family and friends at this time.

Update...

2008-04-23T19:41:00.004-04:00

Meredith went Home to be with her Heavenly Father on the morning of April 22. Please continue to keep her family and friends in your prayers as they grieve the loss of their loved one, yet rejoice in her Home going.

We're smitten for each other!

2008-04-17T20:35:00.005-04:00

Here are a couple recent photos...

"Elephant, elephant tell me who do you love? Oh you know it's my mama that I love..."

My little man... funny little bunny.

Taking food for granted...

2008-04-16T21:11:00.004-04:00

Do you take accessible nutritious foods for granted? I know I do. I even take for granted the opportunity to make and provide milk to nurish Bryce.

I just checked my long-time friend's blog. Katie is a first year missionary in Jeffrey's Bay, South Africa. She is a beautiful girl on the inside and outside, and more importantly has a genuine desire to share God's faithfulness through loving on others. Her most recent post touched my heart as a child of the King and as a mother. Take a couple minutes to read how a new mom has been unable to feed her darling baby.

No doubt Katie (and many others) are doing great things in Africa, and even more so it is obvious that GOD is doing awesome things through her!

May I hunger for the Lord each day... "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." -- Matthew 5:6

An Opportunity to Spread the Breastfeeding Gospel

2008-04-08T19:26:00.005-04:00

Today and for the next couple days I am attending some FEMA training and, therefore, working from a remote location. The last time I was at this particular location for a workshop the staff allowed me to pump in the conference room. This morning I reintroduced myself to the receptionist and reminded her of our last encounter a few months ago. Unfortunately today the private, and more importantly not-a-bathroom-conference-room was booked all day. She did however let me pump in a cubicle on the other side of her desk. While not an entirely private location, I was so thankful for a spot with an electrical outlet and chair to do my "duty." I was also glad I had a sweater so I could express more discretely. It's one thing to bare your breast while nursing a baby... it's an entirely different scenario to expose yourself while pumping. Yikes!

I thanked her for the accommodations and told her how grateful I was to not have to make my baby's food in a dirty bathroom. After my mid-morning milking session, the reception started asking me about breastfeeding, how I store my milk, whether or not I breastfeed or just pump and offer a bottle, and how long I plan to breastfeed. It was obvious that if she does have children she did not nurse them. That said- I was so glad to have been able to give her some basic knowledge about nursing, including the benefits for baby and mom. I really look at every opportunity that I have to talk about breastfeeding as a chance to educate and normalize breastfeeding. My goal is not to force my beliefs on any one, although I do believe that breast is best.

If you're a breastfeeding mama or papa don't be ashamed! Spread the word that breast is best! :)

Vote for Our Little Man!

2008-04-09T19:35:00.003-04:00

As posted on before... take a moment to visit The Twinkies Photo Contest and vote for Bryce. (It's listed under Katie) The photo with the most votes wins a $10 gift card to A*mazon, which I would use toward the purchase of a new book for Bryce.

Vote for Bryce!

Support is crucial...

2008-03-19T20:52:00.006-04:00

One of the most important things that every mother needs in order to be successful in breastfeeding, other than a hungry baby, is support. I really believe that this is crucial to nursing successfully.

First, let me just preface what I believe successful breastfeeding to be... nursing confidently and comfortably for as long as mama, baby and mother nature allow.

I knew long before I was pregnant that should I become a mom someday I wanted to breastfeed. Little did I truly know about the process. And it is a process! As time goes along, both mama and baby learn how to nurse and how to be a good nursling. I'd like to emphasize that while the first few days and, sometimes, weeks can be difficult-- your hormones are going bezurk, you're on an emotional roller coaster, your body seems incredibly foreign and all you want to do is SLEEP-- breastfeeding DOES get easier. And while some people may not think so- there will come a time when breastfeeding is consistently enjoyable! For me personally, the first month was difficult. While Bryce latched on from the get-go, he didn't always do so properly. Unless you've experienced it, you can't even begin to imagine the pain caused by a baby's lower lip tucked in his mouth while sucking on an engorged breast!

I am extremely thankful for my two lactation consultants and the wonderful support group that I have had from the start. Nearly every Monday for the first seven months I attended a breastfeeding support group at the hospital where I delivered. It was a very comfortable and welcoming environment. A place where moms could bare not only their chests. but their souls too. We shared common beliefs surrounding the life-sustaining nourishment that is breast milk! My lactation consultants are awesome women who I care deeply for. One night I thought I ran out of milk (not possible- but I was naive) so I frantically left a message one of the consultant's vm. Even though it was long after her normal work hours, nearly 10:00 pm, she called me back right away. Not because it was an emergency, but because she knew that I needed some support and encouragement!

If you are pregnant and plan to nurse, or currently nursing, I encourage you to find a local breastfeeding support group and/or area lactation consultants. If you don't have those resources in your area, ask a friend or family member who has breastfed their children to be your bosom buddy. Whatever it takes... seek counsel from those who have had success in breastfeeding!

Whenever I meet someone who breastfeeds, and especially new moms I try to encourage them. A few kind words can go a long way to build confidence and offer reassurance to nursing moms (and dads).

Breastfeeding is wonderful!

Teething sucks!

2008-03-17T01:02:00.006-04:00

I just wanted to take a brief moment-- in between giving Bryce more pain meds and consoling him through nursing, and me falling back to sleep-- to send a message out into the blogsphere... Teething Sucks!

Bryce definitely seems to be struggling again with some more teeth trying to errupt through his gums. Poor little guy!

May the luck of the Irish be with him on this St. Patrick's Day!!!

Here's to teething!