tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6623388005069948722024-03-20T23:24:49.781-04:00There's no snakes in New ZealandBreastfeeding Moms Unite!zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.comBlogger291125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-32381694944489101252011-10-26T00:22:00.002-04:002011-10-26T00:29:27.661-04:00Zealand turns 4<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGd8Y6EgJ8YNQ0QFYKBoBoczHAJt3O1Mwe5lIqCdBhapR08AeOt8RetJ5Q7NIQT30skL6r8H92fWEIG75f0o6vSqjHuSYgT4-3tJJE5N7ggQEVONqoS2ByJ_6MKwISHOJpkrdUw18PLM/s1600/mollymoo.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGd8Y6EgJ8YNQ0QFYKBoBoczHAJt3O1Mwe5lIqCdBhapR08AeOt8RetJ5Q7NIQT30skL6r8H92fWEIG75f0o6vSqjHuSYgT4-3tJJE5N7ggQEVONqoS2ByJ_6MKwISHOJpkrdUw18PLM/s400/mollymoo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667653185081375410" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I'm amazed at how fast time goes by.<br />I remember begging the seconds to tick when I was younger.<br />Days seemed like years and years seemed like infinity.<br />I'm saddened that I haven't been keeping better notes and records of his days. I am going to regret it even more with each passing year.<br />If there is one and only one piece of advice I would give to moms-to-be,<br />it would be to document every morsel you can.<br /><br />Because my wish has come true...the seconds are ticking faster....and I want to take it back.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-65827111931150011552011-09-12T22:04:00.000-04:002011-10-17T10:58:58.830-04:00Pursuing your Child's Potential<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9WlcYaC52ehNEcts4CbAt9zIJREI6072rKqx9oXEFe01VlPYCLoH7XRMZPOP30WqKqsPSc6wJrozEV1Eo9nlqToIuSBAvalm_BcQdJb7gNsWXoEr5NbMyXxUQ5tz_OX8GfiOUoGG5Gk/s1600/learning.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 127px; height: 168px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9WlcYaC52ehNEcts4CbAt9zIJREI6072rKqx9oXEFe01VlPYCLoH7XRMZPOP30WqKqsPSc6wJrozEV1Eo9nlqToIuSBAvalm_BcQdJb7gNsWXoEr5NbMyXxUQ5tz_OX8GfiOUoGG5Gk/s400/learning.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664475592316201762" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I remember watching and playing with my nephew and niece when they were little. I remember being in awe in what and how they learned....I also remember that I took it all in and believed that when I was my own parent that I would do it "so" much better.<br />That day has come and passed and I do take the things that I have learned from how my sister has raised her kids and apply my own versions. First of all I am having a really hard time realizing that I can't change my children. They are who they are and that I have to teach them in separate way. I have to harness their own natural abilities and run with those.....which is a hard thing for me to do.<br />Examples are that my oldest has a very difficult time with speech. He has been in speech for two and half years. Where my daughter started speaking and signing at 7 months.<br />Kingsley loves to sing her ABCs and her coloring is very intense and specific whereas Zealand prefers to goof off and I have yet to hear him sing his ABCs in order past the letter D and his coloring is flippant and disorderly.<br />I put Zealand into preschool even though I have a deep longing to homeschool because I need someone to show me how to harness his potentials. I know that he loves taking things apart and putting them back together. I know that he loves glue and building art projects. I love to watch him bop his head to music and play his air guitar.<br />I enjoy his creative side but know that academically he will need to meet goals as well. Getting past his verbal delays will be a huge progression and I have faith that we will be there in the next two years.<br />I think it's important to discuss goals with your child's teacher(s) to make sure that everyone is on the same page. I think supporting all your child's creative needs is imperative to showing them that academically they can be equally as successful. <a href="http://www.kumon.com/WhyJrKumon/GettingStartedIsEasy.aspx">Kumon</a> Academic Enrichment Program unlocks such potential so that your child can achieve more on their own. I have recently discovered Junior <a href="http://www.kumon.com/WhyJrKumon/GettingStartedIsEasy.aspx">Kumon </a>which focuses on children ages three to five. Junior <a href="http://www.kumon.com/WhyJrKumon/GettingStartedIsEasy.aspx">Kumon</a> builds fundamental skills in reading and math and by building such skills gives children a self confidence and a passion for learning.<br />Instilling a desire to learn for life is a motto that <a href="http://www.kumon.com/WhyJrKumon/GettingStartedIsEasy.aspx">Kumon</a> has for this program and it's clear that their programs work with the amazing statistics that they show.....46 countries and 16 million students enrolled since opening.<br />It's all about the <span style="font-weight: bold;">LOVE</span> of learning in and out of the classroom.<br />I hope to pass that on.....do you?<br /><br />Disclaimer:<br />This is a "sponsored" post...I was paid to write my own thoughts and opinions on this program.<br />I would not have blogged this opportunity if I did not believe<br />it to be in the best interest of my readers.<br />I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s <a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html" target="_blank">16 CFR, Part 255</a>: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-81303264186799817312011-08-30T21:19:00.000-04:002011-09-08T22:08:39.301-04:00To School and Back to School<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMZrnWszcnalNuN6PtTIpkj4DkhIBmr53GL6WQnzAfxNWNYTFFzx-TTPWb7wAOUvixaZFcc7VgQKm28KUBQX58_AArgoV9W7fW2NtRll73pEHQfWBATFG_3cU0p3xhqt1ez-7rchveKUI/s1600/CIMG0034%25282%2529.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMZrnWszcnalNuN6PtTIpkj4DkhIBmr53GL6WQnzAfxNWNYTFFzx-TTPWb7wAOUvixaZFcc7VgQKm28KUBQX58_AArgoV9W7fW2NtRll73pEHQfWBATFG_3cU0p3xhqt1ez-7rchveKUI/s400/CIMG0034%25282%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650174179825384354" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">It's hard to write a post about "Back to School" when we haven't been before!<br /><br />I say "we" literally of course as I did go to school.<br />I don't really remember having any anxiety or nervousness accompanied with the first day of school. I was always excited and eager to learn (a trait I hope my children inherit).<br />I know that not all kids were the same as me and I know that not all parents felt the anxiety-ridden sleep I had preparing Zealand to go to pre-school for the first time.<br /><br /><br />I always like to share tips so here is how my family transitioned Summer-time into School-time:<br /><br />1. Bedtime rituals!!! Starting bedtimes early is really hard with the hustle and bustle of summer time activities and a sun that seems to never want to set. The sooner you do it the smoother it makes the days leading to the "Big Day"<br /><br />2. Eating balanced meals. WHAT? Our school has a criteria as to what should be packed in Zealand's lunch. At first, I was a tad upset that they were telling me what to pack...then I realized it wasn't directed to me per se but to the millions of parents who have obese children. Preparing balanced lunches will help in the transition to school lunch time. McDonalds and Pizza Hut isn't accessible, so this transition might be more for the parent than the kid! ;)<br /><br />3. Discipline. I started telling Zealand weeks before we started school that "His teacher wouldn't like that...or this" often. Not that I wanted to use his future teacher as a tool or lever but to make sure that he comprehended that he was to have guidelines and rules. Being that Zealand has never been under the care of anyone but family, rules is something new to him. Zealand has an aversion to the word "No" to a humiliating fault.... something we are working on, as we tend to not use the word in our home.<br /><br />4. Bathroom Breaks. Sure, sure they have to be potty-trained but are the clothes you are sending them to school potty-ready?<br />This is something I should have shared with my friends earlier, as my dear friend already had to go and re-do her school clothes shopping. I have one quick and easy word: ELASTIC. I'm not a fan (mostly for myself....just tacky) but it truly is a must to make sure that your preschooler has the ability to drop those drawers in no time flat or they will be the talk of the class....and not in a good way!<br /><br />5. Being Prepared. I'm sending Zealand to preschool because I already know that he is not prepared for VPK (Florida's Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten). I'm taking the steps early to ensure that he doesn't fall behind because quite frankly I don't know how that feels and can't imagine. My sister took summer classes at <a href="http://www.kumon.com/">Kumon</a> because she fell behind in lots of subjects.<br /><br />Kumon is an Academic Enrichment Program that drives students to perform at their highest potential. If you are looking for a fresh year of learning and need a place for your child to be motivated to achieve more on their own.....then look no further! Since 1958, <a href="http://www.kumon.com/">Kumon </a>has helped more than 16 million children and is a valued and trusted company to my family.<br /><br />Here's to a successful and fulfilling learning journey this year!<br /><br /><br />Disclaimer:<br />This is a "sponsored" post...I was paid to write my own thoughts and opinions on this program.<br />I would not have blogged this opportunity if I did not believe<br />it to be in the best interest of my readers.<br />I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s <a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html" target="_blank">16 CFR, Part 255</a>: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-23256104365055652682011-08-28T16:53:00.003-04:002011-08-28T17:07:59.300-04:00Forever and a day
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;">It's been forever and a day.
<br />It sure feels like it anyway.
<br />Both the kids are potty trained....so I don't have any cloth diaper news to give.
<br />Kingsley has finally self-weaned...so I don't have any boobie news either!
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<br />I moved my shop (Peace Love Play) to a new location and it is doing AMAZINGLY well.
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<br />Zealand started pre-school last week and has already told me numerous times how much he loves his teacher....oh boy!
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<br />We stay busy that is for sure. Every extra penny I make goes towards the extras that I give the kids. Mostly trips to Disney and stays at the beach....we also have a Disney cruise we paid for, for next May!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjyRptT4EJ9dRrMkJ-Hky8GSFoCGnmApQPg15857kIBpUIMiKMqSWyY8K5ZM53ojA9meL3GLzIAr1r9XnZW3LNo3zr1N0NocrSqIXLyf6r4rBXEeufzXOX_mbVxXO98vWhSNDBpXarAHc/s1600/CIMG0662.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjyRptT4EJ9dRrMkJ-Hky8GSFoCGnmApQPg15857kIBpUIMiKMqSWyY8K5ZM53ojA9meL3GLzIAr1r9XnZW3LNo3zr1N0NocrSqIXLyf6r4rBXEeufzXOX_mbVxXO98vWhSNDBpXarAHc/s400/CIMG0662.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646015932232414002" border="0" /></a>
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<br />I'm actively involved with a new church now, that my kids and I love.
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<br />My husband loves his job (as much as anyone can love a job, i guess).
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<br />And that's it!
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<br />I'll be posting on things in the future about how we will pack healthy lunches, how we feel about some of the pressures and rules of pre-school and of course Disney (tips of the trade, I guess you could say!)
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<br />I hope to stay in touch more now that my store has moved and now that I've established a more regular bed-time routine for the kids and I hope you stick around and leave feedback so I don't feel like I'm talking to myself!!
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<br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />
<br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-21669051876829891052011-05-28T00:10:00.002-04:002011-05-28T00:20:17.715-04:00Disney's bringing the memories TO you!<div style="text-align: center;" class="video_player"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;" class="spread_magic"> <img src="http://www.letthememoriesbegintour.com/images/home/spread-magic.gif" alt="Spreading Magical Disney Memories Coast to Coast" width="370" height="45" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> No one has to tell a parent how quickly kids grow up. But memories are the secret to keeping them forever young. And Disney memories? They're magical things filled with color, wonder and laughter. The kind of memories that dance for us in our dreams and live happily ever after in our hearts. We're sharing those kinds of memories across America with the Let The Memories Begin Tour. It's taking Disney memory making into towns across America where children and adults of all ages are enjoying a sample of the magic and fun that people enjoy every day in the Disney Theme Parks. You can also pick up a commemorative Disney Parks photo below as well as enter for your chance to take home memories of a lifetime on a <i>Walt Disney World</i> ® Resort or <i>Disneyland</i> ® Resort vacation that you could win by entering below. So don't wait a moment longer. There's a Disney memory waiting for you right now. <strong></strong><br /><br /> <div class="back_btn"> <a href="http://www.letthememoriesbegintour.com/index.php"><br /></a> </div> <div class="header_txt"> <img src="http://www.letthememoriesbegintour.com/images/tours/header_txt.gif" width="735" height="30" /> </div> <table><tbody><tr> <td class="label">Chicago, IL</td> <td class="date">5/30 - 5/31/11</td> <td class="label">Houston, TX</td> <td class="date">7/12 - 7/13/11</td> <td class="label">Seattle, WA</td> <td class="date">8/20 - 8/21/11</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="label">Boston, MA</td> <td class="date">6/5 - 6/6/11</td> <td class="label">Phoenix, AZ</td> <td class="date">7/19 - 7/20/11</td> <td class="label">Calgary, Canada</td> <td class="date">8/26 - 8/27/11</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="label">New York, NY</td> <td class="date">6/10 - 6/12/11</td> <td class="label">Denver, CO</td> <td class="date">7/26 - 7/27/11</td> <td class="label">Toronto, Canada</td> <td class="date">9/2 - 9/3/11</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="label">Washington D.C.</td> <td class="date">6/18 - 6/19/11</td> <td class="label">Salt Lake City, UT</td> <td class="date">7/30 - 7/31/11</td> <td class="label">Puerto Rico</td> <td class="date">9/23 - 9/24/11</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="label">Atlanta, GA</td> <td class="date">6/24 - 6/25/11</td> <td class="label">San Francisco, CA</td> <td class="date">8/5 - 8/6/11</td> <td> </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td class="label">Dallas, TX</td> <td class="date">7/8 - 7/9/11</td> <td class="label">Portland, OR</td> <td class="date">8/16 - 8/17/11</td> <td> </td> <td> </td></tr></tbody></table><br />This is a media plug for, and written by, Disney<br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-13824391679512978432011-05-16T21:54:00.002-04:002011-05-16T22:44:11.120-04:00Disney advice<div style="text-align: center;">I doubt Disney reads my blog but I have a piece of advice for them and 3 pieces for you!<br />(short and sweet and to the point)<br />Let's get them out of the way ......<br />I think its safe to say that a least 50% of their phone calls for resort reservations have children involved...right?<br />So, why OH why is their phone system VOICE activated?<br />So that each and every time I call, "they" can't process "that" request.<br />So, Disney, how about the first thing you ask your callers is if they would prefer touch or voice answers....cause I would really appreciate it. Since all moms know that no matter what, kids don't have a thing to say (or scream) until we get on the phone!!<br /><br />OK....now on to advice for you. (Take it or leave it!)<br />On a mom board I saw someone searching out advice for Disney with toddlers and I saw many replies that begged the mom NOT to do it!<br />Totally DO IT!<br /><br />Here is 3 things I say will help with the trip:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bubbles and lollipops</span>.<br />They are amazing to waste away the minutes while you are waiting in line.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Snacks</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">and drinks</span>.<br />Pack a cooler. Yes you CAN! Bring all their favorites. AND if you need a drink you can get <span style="font-weight: bold;">FREE</span> ice water anywhere!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mark your stroller</span>.<br />I swear everyone has the SAME stroller as you. AND they actually pay employees to keep the stroller area neat and tidy, which means they move strollers ALL over the place. So bring a bright cup for the cup holder OR buy an awesome Mickey balloon from Dollar Tree and tie it on!<br />(That's a double tip...thank me later)<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-16073889903737962522011-04-27T19:59:00.003-04:002011-04-27T20:30:41.621-04:00Welch's Harvest Grants Program<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjf2jb4qvi54P3hX-9u6Vqtmg_JpBANt37Cy-XqyKugTGcLSVWUjt0LzoCaCbdJyfjSkA_l1Nw7iTHjuBxUIxuMwx-NEkrm9fm5S9gJeLTZyjV6f5HmtPbOr3Hpmi3Gd-DF9p-zPce9mM/s1600/Welchsheader.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 315px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjf2jb4qvi54P3hX-9u6Vqtmg_JpBANt37Cy-XqyKugTGcLSVWUjt0LzoCaCbdJyfjSkA_l1Nw7iTHjuBxUIxuMwx-NEkrm9fm5S9gJeLTZyjV6f5HmtPbOr3Hpmi3Gd-DF9p-zPce9mM/s400/Welchsheader.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600424693273859842" border="0" /></a><br /><h1 style="text-align: center;">Meet the Winning Schools in the 2nd Annual Welch's Harvest Grants Program</h1><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Nearly 7,000 teachers applied this year for the 2nd annual Welch's Harvest Grants Program! 100 schools (2 per state) were chosen to receive their choice of either an indoor or outdoor customized package that included: variety of tools, seeds, educational materials, and more.<br /><br />5 schools were given a package worth $1000 (with a flip camera included)<br />and<br />95 were given $500!!<br /><br />The benefits these children will receive by winning these gardening packages will affect all subjects.<br />Math: estimating and measuring<br />Art: dyes and coloring<br />PE: digging and planting<br />Health: nutrition education and source of food<br />Social Studies: economical and environmental issues<br />plus more.....<br /><br />You can find green thumb activities to help grow your family fun time <a href="http://www.scholastic.com/harvest/pdfs/activities.pdf">here</a><br />You can sign up for the Welch's newsletter <a href="http://www.welchs.com/about-welchs/newsletters/sign-up">here</a> and keep up with the programs they have and next year's application process<br />and<br /><br />drumroll....<br />you can see all 100 winner's <a href="http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3753837">HERE</a><br /><br /><br />Disclaimer:<br />This is a "sponsored" post...I was paid to write my own thoughts and opinions on this program.<br />I would not have blogged this opportunity if I did not believe<br />it to be in the best interest of my readers.<br />I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s <a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html" target="_blank">16 CFR, Part 255</a>: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-64475775747791570192011-04-24T22:54:00.002-04:002011-04-24T23:07:12.809-04:00if i could turn back time...I love this Cher song.<br />I sing it often...but just the chorus, cause that's all I really know.<br /><br />Anyways, so there's always that moment you wish you could do-over.<br />As a mom I agonize that one day will be too late. <br />One day, I'll know if I messed up.<br />One day my KIDS will know if I messed up.<br /><br /><br />What are you afraid of?<br /><br /><br /><br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-72796546179494457402011-04-19T23:34:00.002-04:002011-04-19T23:45:22.835-04:00War and Peace<div style="text-align: center;">There are days that I'd like to just muzzle them, like putting a silencer on a gun.<br />It's safe to say that the sounds I hear throughout the day are similar to the wails of missiles and the thudding of buildings collapsing.<br /><br />Then those sweet times after the storm, where I'm holding one in my lap, snuggled. Smelling wafts of pure heaven, the white flag raised....I think that I have won the battle.<br /><br />Until the alarm of screaming awakens me the very next morning and I don my shield of armor once more.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-13887961545781872822011-04-03T21:00:00.002-04:002011-04-03T21:03:33.043-04:00Re-Introducing my loves and our love for Disney!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uLr3IgDHIwk_45Ng3bi_ZAp5KHapo7E0Vqk1zCKHRC6ee_CwCv0JaMnwEHSaAClEivEoy8FPEaR568BqUf35KqP9lMrW64aUZM1w6yOhmnGzneFXsW3cgoBACoovDwkOUQCdYb5Ps3M/s1600/wallpaper-tempa.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uLr3IgDHIwk_45Ng3bi_ZAp5KHapo7E0Vqk1zCKHRC6ee_CwCv0JaMnwEHSaAClEivEoy8FPEaR568BqUf35KqP9lMrW64aUZM1w6yOhmnGzneFXsW3cgoBACoovDwkOUQCdYb5Ps3M/s400/wallpaper-tempa.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591527570767280114" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHt-XxUyeLb6XgDhCoc_-f-DC1ZANxGRk5wGs1AjbFky4wSWPENXUI2p_8mPEE-YyRs8g1ODUoJIbfyUExn8qp0-oeJvP-ljEgF9D9PWm2I6lPItfzA1IQQm2VBXLfcswOLAV4bKqwxLE/s1600/CIMG0127.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHt-XxUyeLb6XgDhCoc_-f-DC1ZANxGRk5wGs1AjbFky4wSWPENXUI2p_8mPEE-YyRs8g1ODUoJIbfyUExn8qp0-oeJvP-ljEgF9D9PWm2I6lPItfzA1IQQm2VBXLfcswOLAV4bKqwxLE/s400/CIMG0127.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591527569785672866" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFhnUPK8j-2fsr_RJ2bVubLIKb1sVydk3tw1FBUgh4rqk-px9F5ZT7XyhXUBF2F_A2pMWbM6MGNakiOpTssiKuvqX_a2kYsuOg-BmTeESk0nwd0VDD3ac9hrBe8df3vBKIh6jSO7ug18/s1600/CIMG0124.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFhnUPK8j-2fsr_RJ2bVubLIKb1sVydk3tw1FBUgh4rqk-px9F5ZT7XyhXUBF2F_A2pMWbM6MGNakiOpTssiKuvqX_a2kYsuOg-BmTeESk0nwd0VDD3ac9hrBe8df3vBKIh6jSO7ug18/s400/CIMG0124.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591527565504219266" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjamxHcUb0Ev_FPzfFAxa5Hs-wRyp8gfdNpC5K8MqRbhkITR6L7V3Dwl43bTcwzQCZycYmwkHZXWU5VWes_YHNIwOi-su19qfrD3dn_YPTzYiNoDZIxMTweaGZ7IcdIewQGsCgB_WCmkkU/s1600/CIMG0173a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjamxHcUb0Ev_FPzfFAxa5Hs-wRyp8gfdNpC5K8MqRbhkITR6L7V3Dwl43bTcwzQCZycYmwkHZXWU5VWes_YHNIwOi-su19qfrD3dn_YPTzYiNoDZIxMTweaGZ7IcdIewQGsCgB_WCmkkU/s400/CIMG0173a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591527562233183858" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-4539756501237318422011-03-22T21:11:00.002-04:002011-03-22T21:17:27.079-04:00Breastfeeding a toddler<div style="text-align: center;">I know there is alot of support <span style="font-style: italic;">out there</span> for us "toddler nursers"....but where is the real support in every day life?<br />Yes, Kingsley is walking. And talking.<br />And yes, she likes to scream "bewbie" when she wants it.<br />I decided the moment we knew she was coming, that I would let her decide, I am even comfortable with my decision. I just feel like I need some kind of speech prepared when she asks loudly, in the middle of a show at Disney World...When I'm not always prepared to undress or sitting next to a smelly man.<br />Do, I remind her that "now's not the place" or do I wiggle the girlies out to nurse?<br />Is there an age where she should wait? I mean, they are made for HER...and technically she uses them more than I do.<br /><br />I'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions.<br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-34748273133497116552011-03-01T21:39:00.002-05:002011-03-01T21:57:24.872-05:00A fresh start to #BfCafe<div style="text-align: center;">Pardon me as I blow dust off the keyboard....<br /><br />As some of you may know, I took a month off to spend some quality time with my family and gather fantastic sponsors for our 2nd year of #BfCafe.<br /><br />I did manage to spend the time with my family and even headed to bed before midnight, 85% of the month!<br /><br />I spent a considerable time thinking up new sponsors and following some leads....but as the month progressed, I found that my lack of internet time, caused me to miss some perspective tweets and emails...and the days turned into weeks.<br /><br />I want this chat to be able to help women so incredibly bad and I know I have the passion and the compassion to share it....what I don't have is the time nor the energy to really give what I believe the nursing mom deserves.....so I want to give #BfCafe a fresh start with a fresh face and fresh perspectives!<br /><br />Meet <a href="http://www.stylinmomma.com/">Katy</a>.<br />Katy is the owner and blogger for The Stylin' Momma.<br />She is currently nursing her 26 month old daughter and nursed her oldest daughter for 40ish months.<br />She has charisma and she has a passion.<br /><br />Katy will run the weekly posts and advice from her blog <a href="http://www.stylinmomma.com/">here </a>and will take over the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/BfCafe/124111407632462">facebook</a> page.<br /><br />Here what Katy would like you to know about her:<br /><br /><span style="color: navy; font-family: Prelude,Verdana,san-serif;"><div>As a mom, I started following the #bfcafe twitter chats from the beginning. The time of the chats didn't work for our family for a while, but I would catch up and interject when I could. When our schedules changed and Thursday evenings were free again for me, I started joining in. I love meeting and chatting with the moms and learning from each other. Support for moms is so important. </div> <div><br /></div><div>I am a mother to mother breastfeeding support person, and I am passionate about helping moms. My blog and website are mom focused. I want to help other moms know that they can reach their goals, they are amazing women, they are still beautiful, and they can be great moms in the process. I love the community that is found on twitter, and it is my hope to help foster the breastfeeding community by continuing the #bfcafe chats. </div> <div><br /></div><div>I will track the hashtag outside of chat times, and you can always reach out if you need support at other times! I can't wait to get to know everyone and chat with you all more regularly!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">I am still around...please feel free to email me or tweet me if you have any questions or concerns!<br />I will still be popping into chats and maybe even entering to win some stuff myself ;)<br /><br />I have loved getting to know you and love being able to say that maybe I was a part in your breastfeeding success!<br /></span></div></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-88051333811156899322011-01-18T22:12:00.003-05:002011-01-18T22:40:07.337-05:00Facts and Fiction sponsored by Motherlove<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQuAwQ-6tPgVBR3EMuMMedlVMQmEoDEr2y3_PwyIQTcg2msXYfxMQPbu4s7RlwmbL7BexauFICSeRW9qy19Twu7i_QyAzbBqXWHzuEOsr24SoFnN68rPalb0haKxHl69cG5kPodPr3Dgk/s1600/home_splash.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 364px; height: 386px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQuAwQ-6tPgVBR3EMuMMedlVMQmEoDEr2y3_PwyIQTcg2msXYfxMQPbu4s7RlwmbL7BexauFICSeRW9qy19Twu7i_QyAzbBqXWHzuEOsr24SoFnN68rPalb0haKxHl69cG5kPodPr3Dgk/s400/home_splash.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563736449519376722" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I overheard moms talking about breast milk today. I have to draw the line about how much I can interfere when the discussions are at my own store....as to not piss anyone off enough to not come back.<br /><br />Moms talking.<br /><br />Talking about not having enough milk.<br /><br />Talking about how in some "milk analysis study" that if mom doesn't eat healthy enough, that formula is more nutritious.<br /><br />Talking about how iron and fluoride are needed in supplement forms to breastfed babies.<br /><br />If these are truths....then we would cease to exist.<br />I can assure you that 100s of years ago they did not have formula. They did not have supplements and they did not analyze milk's nutritional value.<br /><br />So...I thought we could talk truths this week.<br /><br />You can bring those burning questions....and we can all try to get the truth's known!<br /><br />Does breastfeeding raise or lower sex drive?<br />Does the nutritional value of breast milk dwindle with age?<br />Do you need to quit breastfeeding while pregnant?<br /><br />Bring them!<br /><br />If you know your question now, ask in the comments below, so I can do some research!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-51609301109947091872011-01-07T16:12:00.002-05:002011-01-07T16:38:31.513-05:00Hello.....2011!<div style="text-align: center;">2010 was not my best year.....but I sure had a good one.<br /><br />I know, I have been neglecting my followers and fellow online friends but after turning off the internet (due to a local monopoly and ridiculous price gouging) I have been super M.I.A.<br />I'd love to recap 2010 and say goodbye. I'm really looking forward to 2011 and sharing with you success and happiness!<br /><br />January- Christian had just lost his job in December and we had just been declined re-admittance into the Coast Guard. We just started the hiring process with the Sherrif's office, so we decided to up and move ASAP.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Moving now places us near family!!</span><br /><br />February- We signed a lease with my sister's MIL (soon to be ex..Thank GOD) and she rented us a house with promises to fix NUMEROUS things. Tiffany (my sister) and I started looking at spaces to rent for a store to open.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Being short on $, we luckily had to pay NO deposit! LUCKY!</span><br /><br />March- Christian started training. Toby my beloved dog, ran away (never to come home).<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">We start painting our new store!!</span><br /><br />April- I opened up my playroom.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Business was great.</span><br /><br />May- July Great business...repetitive days!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get to meet some GREAT friends!!</span><br /><br />August- My sister's husband of 14 years has an affair and all things fall apart. Business starts to dwindle, bad energies and fights amongst families begin.<br /><br />September- More drama. More sad, tearful days. Energies are depleted and very depressed.<br /><br />October-<span style="font-weight: bold;">Christian graduates from the academy</span>. His mom comes to visit. Decision to put new, fresh, positive energy into my store starts.<br /><br />November- Business starts to pick up again..slowly. We do however become behind in rent. My sister although still beyond depressed, starts to pick up pieces.<br /><br />December- Drama commences again with sister's bat-shit crazy MIL (never really ended). My beloved other dog is killed by car...<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"> yet Christmas ends the year with an amazing dinner with BOTH Great-Grandmother's by my children's side.</span><br /><br />So....2011 will bring new found happiness and peace for us all. My husband will soon be on his own at work. My business, will either bloom or die....but regardless I have met some wonderful, caring local moms, dads and grandmas!<br /><br />Here is to YOUR 2011...may you have wonderful goals and dreams and may they all be fulfilled!<br /><br />I love you all! Thanks so much for your love and support!<br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-37339990924383151582010-12-21T21:39:00.002-05:002010-12-21T21:42:45.915-05:00Advice for new breastfeeding moms from #BfCafeTrust your instincts and surround yourself with supportive people.<br /><br />Make connections before you need them (# for an LC, LLL, twitter<br /><br />Every drop counts!<br /><br />Your supply, especially in those first few days IS enough!!<br /><br />Always get lots of opinions if someone advises you to quit. There is almost always a better answer!<br /><br />Don't confuse a crying baby for a starving baby. I know so many who quit because they assume a baby who is crying is hungry<br /><br />Set small achievable goals. latch. 6 weeks. 3 mo 6 mo 1 yr. beyond. don't think in years at beginning!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-11947020201806355162010-12-17T12:33:00.000-05:002010-12-17T12:33:00.452-05:00Breastfeeding in the news...Pediatric SuperSite<span id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder1_resourceTitleLabel"></span><h2><a href="http://www.pediatricsupersite.com/view.aspx?rid=78706">Healthy People 2020 goals include support of breast-feeding</a></h2>The barriers to breast-feeding are being addressed at the highest level of government, with the release of Healthy People 2020. The US Department of Health and Human Services has targeted the new 10-year goals for the nation’s health, and among these goals is supporting breast-feeding.<br /><br />“This is a major step forward for mothers and babies,” Gerald Calnen, MD, president of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, said in a news release. “For decades, we’ve been telling mothers to try harder. With the Healthy People 2020 goals, we are actually helping mothers to succeed.”<br /><br />The new public health initiatives address maternity care and workplace accommodations for nursing mothers, two major obstacles for breast-feeding mothers.<br /><br />Findings from a recent CDC survey demonstrated that maternity centers earned an average grade of 65% for infant-feeding care, and only 3.8% of US births occurred in facilities that earned Baby Friendly certification. Baby Friendly facilities meet standards set by UNICEF and WHO for high-quality breast-feeding care, according to information in the news release.<br /><br />The goals aim to increase the percentage of Baby Friendly hospitals to 8% and to increase the proportion of US workplaces that accommodate working mothers to express milk or breast-feed their infants during the workday from 25% to 38%.<br /><br />The goals also call for formula supplementation for healthy newborn infants during the maternity hospital stay. In 2006, 26% of healthy breast-fed newborns were fed formula in the hospital; the 2020 goals aim to decrease this rate to 15%.<br /><br />The new 2020 public health goals also set targets for initiation and continuation of breast-feeding. Currently, 75% of babies born in the US are initially breast-fed, but rates decrease to 43% by 6 months and to 22% by 12 months. The AAP recommends that infants be fed only breast milk for the first 6 months of life, but only 13% of American infants meet this standard.<br /><br />Healthy People 2020 aims to increase breast-feeding rates to 82% “ever breast-fed,” 61% at 6 months and 34% at 1 year; exclusive breast-feeding goals are set for 44% by 3 months and 24% at 6 months.<br /><br />“By making maternity care and workplace support part of the Healthy People 2020 goals, policymakers are recognizing what mothers already know,” Calnen said. “We need to change the system so that hospitals, employers and the general public work together to empower mothers to achieve the best infant-feeding goals.”<br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-55628595060492021202010-12-16T21:22:00.001-05:002010-12-16T21:26:39.542-05:00Breastfeeding in the News....virtual web<a href="http://www.virtualmedicalcentre.com/news/caffeine-and-breastfeeding/15735">Booby trap: Caffeine and breastfeeding</a><br /><br />Nursing infants don't get much say when it comes to choosing what's on the menu. If you're breastfeeding, whatever you're selecting, so is your baby. When it comes to selecting caffeine, babies are sensitive, so mothers may need to cut down to make sure it doesn't cause any damage to their baby's health. After all, caffeine is a drug, and if it can jack you up before a big day at work, imagine how strong it is for a tiny little person.<br /><br /><br />Psychoactive sensation<br /><br />It's well established that the drug caffeine is a popular sensation – but it's also a psychoactive one. This means it works by stimulating the nervous system, which is why it's so great at relieving fatigue. Unfortunately, new mums are probably the most tired of us all, and if mums are breastfeeding, too much coffee or energy drinks won't be worth it in the long run.<br /><br /><br />How much is too much?<br /><br />Breastfeeding mums can still have the occasional cup of coffee, but should limit the amount of caffeine they consume to no more than 300 mg per day. This equates to 2–3 cups of filtered coffee per day, and should be even less if you're smoking, which has been shown to increase the health risks associated with caffeine.<br /><br />Caffeine Calculator<br />Caffeine is a stimulant which can temporarily increase alertness and improve mood. However, when consumed in excess it may have negative health affects. You can use this tool to calculate your daily caffeine intake.<br />Click here to complete the Caffeine calculator<br /><br /><br />The Mum-to-bub caffeine express<br /><br />Caffeine is a smart drug; it can work its way into breast milk and right into your baby's mouth within 15 minutes of a cuppa. The concentration of caffeine in breastmilk actually peaks about an hour after you have consumed it.<br /><br />The levels of caffeine in your breastmilk gradually lower in the next 14 hours. But even though the levels are lower, they will still be large enough to affect your baby. Tough gig, huh?<br /><br /><br />Baby boom: Caffeine in an infant's body<br /><br />Very young infants have 'immature' metabolic systems. This is the newborn equivalent of an adolescent not cleaning their room, except the baby's room is their liver. This means they can't process and expel drugs from their body – they certainly haven't had as much practice as us oldies, either – so it takes about 8 days to metabolise most of the caffeine passed on in breastmilk from 6–8 cups of coffee.<br /><br />If you're thinking that's a long time for caffeine to be knocking 'round in your baby ... it is.<br /><br />Luckily, by the time a baby is 6 months old, the same amount of caffeine can be cleared in about two and a half hours. The younger the baby, the longer it takes to metabolise.<br /><br /><br />Grumblebums<br /><br />Whatever their age, if there is more caffeine in a baby's system than they can metabolise, the caffeine will start building up in their system and stimulate their nervous system, just as it would with any adult.<br /><br />The effects of this for your baby will be agitation, being jittery or unsettled, and sleeping difficulties. Mothers know that when it comes to sleeping, babies are tough customers as it is, so cutting out the caffeine is one way of limiting the long nights.<br /><br />Dental cavities and intestinal problems may be more common in infants of breastfeeding mums who are consuming too much caffeine too, so give your baby a break. No one likes being constipated!<br /><br /><br />What about me?<br /><br />All this might sound like a bit of a bummer for new mums, especially when all you want is a hot cup of coffee and a big block of chocolate. But you're also doing yourself a favour by cutting down on the caffeine.<br /><br />Firstly, caffeine consumption may inhibit the production of breastmilk – as if you didn't have enough worries! This means you may not produce enough to feed your baby properly, so you both suffer.<br /><br />High caffeine intake also affects the quality of your breastmilk and can reduce the iron content by a third. You may also experience uncomfortable breast inflammation and difficulty breastfeeding.<br /><br /><br />Say no to drugs<br /><br />As you can see, caffeine might be common, but it's still a very strong drug that can affect both you and your baby. By cutting down to just 2 or 3 cups a day, you can keep your milk running like a tap and keep baby sleeping like a ... well, baby.<br /><br />If you have any problems, then just book in with your GP to talk about techniques for getting off the black stuff.<br /><br /><br />More information<br />Caffeine and breastfeeding <br /><br />For more information, see Caffeine Consumption While Breastfeeding.<br /><br />calendar icon Article Date: 16/12/2010<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-60088659721706107232010-12-15T23:12:00.002-05:002010-12-15T23:19:43.236-05:00#BfCafe as this week's sponsor<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihrC-JRHDcPEYln_ZIJC4cT33gu547nE_I8xpPYQnyva0BP3OrqLMcPxFaHB1ihrn-jPIy4LqPsFpfbdCUVaJV_s90NSQNEEXuBGtLp9TWkbfavw97YCcMCn9MrOVCylsXpcF2O_nEkA4/s1600/motherlove.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 364px; height: 386px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihrC-JRHDcPEYln_ZIJC4cT33gu547nE_I8xpPYQnyva0BP3OrqLMcPxFaHB1ihrn-jPIy4LqPsFpfbdCUVaJV_s90NSQNEEXuBGtLp9TWkbfavw97YCcMCn9MrOVCylsXpcF2O_nEkA4/s400/motherlove.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551129911420602002" border="0" /></a><br />This week will be a catch-up week for all past <a href="http://www.motherlove.com/">Motherlove </a>weeks. We will touch up on all our previous topics and have a question and answer trivia for prizes!<br /><br />To win all you have to do is COME and ANSWER questions.<br />Winners will be chosen randomly from answers received.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-73141643837898796662010-12-06T19:56:00.003-05:002010-12-06T21:15:04.454-05:00Natural Transition as this week's sponsor 12/9<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTO3j1sLcMkJq9hkbrpbZtKAbGoF2_X7euT7VGzNzEmqE9CY49Mhh5XjlNhyczMiKL6iH4g90WkQR2_cxGeZZaixBWWsq8L7v7OPlgIbLM6BFj-s2xxAmYsnWKcyCNvKEzZN_svrwV8U/s1600/naturaltransitionnewlogo.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 72px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTO3j1sLcMkJq9hkbrpbZtKAbGoF2_X7euT7VGzNzEmqE9CY49Mhh5XjlNhyczMiKL6iH4g90WkQR2_cxGeZZaixBWWsq8L7v7OPlgIbLM6BFj-s2xxAmYsnWKcyCNvKEzZN_svrwV8U/s400/naturaltransitionnewlogo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547757115340751826" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">What I love about #BfCafe is that I get to support so many moms. Moms that have their own companies and moms that are looking for support in breastfeeding and a natural start.<br />Moms helping moms.<br /><br /><a href="http://naturaltransition.com/">Natural Transitions'</a> website header is:<br />"embracing motherhood naturally"<br /><br />I'd like to think that MOST moms want the natural and healthy lifestyle for their babies but unfortunately that is just NOT the case.<br /><br />But for those of you that do...I have found <a href="http://naturaltransition.com/">a great resource</a> for you.<br /><br /><a href="http://naturaltransition.com/">This site</a> is the epitome of support.<br />Whether you need recipes, fertility advice, breastfeeding or loads more.<br />Not only is a GREAT amount of this site free there is a new members area where personalized support from a trained teacher.<br /><br />We all know that most things cannot be done without support..this site can help with a beginning and a transition into a more natural lifestyle using tools geared directly at what you want and need the most!<br /><br />Looking for goodies to help?<br />Well....there is a shop too!<br />Although<a href="http://naturaltransition.com/"> Natural Transition</a> is in Australia, no matter where you are....you can still benefit.<br />From leg warmers to maternity wear to teething dolls.<br />The shop isn't huge but I'm sure it will grow!<br /><br /><a href="http://naturaltransition.com/">Natural Transition</a> is run by: Run by Julie Cottle- mother of 3, naturopath, breastfeeding counselor and natural fertility teacher....so she knows her business!!<br /><br />Julie has a prize for everyone but you MUST RSVP to win!<br /><br />Let's talk things natural!<br />From breastfeeding to products we love......<br /><br />I know I wouldn't be walking down the path I am now, if it weren't for breastfeeding.<br />One good thing deserves another, right!?<br /><br /><script src="http://www.linkytools.com/basic_linky_include.aspx?id=60800" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-4279917055894500082010-11-29T11:18:00.003-05:002010-11-29T11:34:34.050-05:00The Organized Disorganized Mom<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.busybodybook.com/"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRfzDgYvaqDQPJU_ER78Sqy7MJo20xm3dh3M5xlasjNkrPMnc2Mq0Z0KIJV0PLf5DHi2qgenzYWfXGpX87Cfn5aD8ewvKBqRCm2tVRcsBDt04qMr-BNzmSjLF3Vl9WZZ2Lr9cDPX_rH-I/s400/bbb.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545010647155652146" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I love to make lists....I want to be soooo organized! I write said lists on envelope backs mostly. I usually leave the list laying around, in no particular place and certainly not in the places I return to look for them....and find them missing.<br />I'm still phenomenal at list making and even better and list losing although I have found THE perfect calendar/organizer for me.<br />It's cute, practical, has list pages in the back that are perforated, so I can write my lovely lists and take them into the store with me!<br />This organizer has both a calendar year as well as an academic year.<br />Need a large wall calendar? Yep! They have this too.<br />This is the second year that I have gotten a <a href="http://www.busybodybook.com/">Busy Body Book</a> and I even purchased one for my shop, I love them soooo much.<br />See...they are gridded. Meaning what, you ask?<br />Meaning each person can have their own column in your organizer. Mom has an appointment, mark it in Mom's column....therefore keeping her hair appointment separate from son's dentist appointment. Because if you are like me I like to just write "1:30 appointment" on the calendar....and then the week comes and I have NO clue who the appointment is for or to where?!<br />Great for keeping play dates organized, work schedules and even cleaning schedules!<br />I think you'll really love to <a href="http://www.busybodybook.com/">GET this book</a> as well as being a STELLAR gift to give!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Right now, shipping is free AND you get 10% off!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grab one or two now!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ENTER MOMSBBB to get this deal!</span></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-50846384807552133692010-11-23T16:15:00.004-05:002010-11-23T16:25:31.155-05:00Breastfeeding in the News...Time Magazine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJePdKLBiCwwYxJdIVX-uew2Km-MWrjhQ-2Rlfev2EgcmMukA2GzCxE-Qx38JEXtSYmIf_9BhiyNkDniYlDxJqsTEt043xpAEeLtm9_3moC_5E_pcbBPZ6mSSvLwNJCjEqGJmWiBvOVg/s1600/tandem.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 307px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJePdKLBiCwwYxJdIVX-uew2Km-MWrjhQ-2Rlfev2EgcmMukA2GzCxE-Qx38JEXtSYmIf_9BhiyNkDniYlDxJqsTEt043xpAEeLtm9_3moC_5E_pcbBPZ6mSSvLwNJCjEqGJmWiBvOVg/s400/tandem.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542858953488911042" border="0" /></a><br /> <h1><a href="http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,2032363,00.html">Move Over, Milk Banks: Facebook and Milk Sharing</a></h1><br />By <span class="name"> <a id="emailWriter" href="http://www.time.com/time/letters/email_letter.html">Jennifer Block</a> </span> <span class="date">Monday, Nov. 22, 2010<br /><br /></span><div><div style="overflow: hidden; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; border: medium none;"><div><div style="overflow: hidden; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; border: medium none;">In one of the photos that keeps getting Emma Kwasnica's Facebook account su<span></span>spended, the Montreal-based mother and breast-feeding activist is tandem nursing, with a newborn at one breast and a two-year-old at the other. Classical art and public health be damned, Facebook has censored countless breast-feeding photos for violating the company's terms of use, a policy that has inspired more than 250,000 people to join a Facebook group called <a href="http://www.facebook.com/search.php?q=Hey%20Facebook%2C%20Breastfeeding%20is%20Not%20Obscene%21&init=quick&tas=0.8089853931161185&ref=ts#%21/group.php?gid=2517126532" target="_blank">"Hey Facebook, Breastfeeding Is Not Obscene!"</a> Kwasnica has protested her four account suspensions by e-mailing administrators and keeps doggedly reposting photographs and organizing virtual "nurse-ins" via her Facebook group, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/search.php?q=Hey%20Facebook%2C%20Breastfeeding%20is%20Not%20Obscene%21&init=quick&tas=0.8089853931161185&ref=ts#%21/group.php?gid=21515708855" target="_blank">Informed Choice: Birth and Beyond</a>. But last month it occurred to her that the global breast-feeding community could use social media to organize real-world, offline "lactivism," in the form of milk sharing. </div></div> <p>The result is a new network called <a href="http://www.eatsonfeets.org/" target="_blank">Eats on Feets</a> — a play on Meals on Wheels — that uses Facebook to connect women whose babies need supplemental breast milk to women nearby who have extra milk to give away. Shell Walker, a midwife in Phoenix, came up with the name and created the original page to facilitate local matches. But Kwasnica, who had already made several matches via her Informed Choice page, took the idea global, and in just a few weeks the network has grown to 98 local groups, spanning all 50 states in the U.S. and 22 countries. More than 70 matches have been reported so far, with milk coming not only in bags and jars, but also sometimes directly from the source.<br /></p> <p>Women have been sharing breast milk for eons (remember wet nurses?), but the practice has been stigmatized in modern society, especially in the age of HIV. Milk banks screen and pasteurize donated milk and give priority to premature and very ill babies, essentially preventing most families from accessing the milk. And for those who can get banked milk, it is often prohibitively expensive: $3 to $5 per oz., upwards of $100 for a day's supply. </p> <p>Although informal milk sharing is not standard practice in the U.S., the World Health Organization recommends "raw" donor milk if a mother's own supply won't suffice. "Milk from another human in any manner that's safe from disease is the logical and healthiest next best," says Miriam Labbok, a professor of maternal and child health at the University of North Carolina and director of the Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute.</p> <p>Most women in the U.S. <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/data/NIS_data/index.htm" target="_blank">try to breast-feed</a>, but many hit roadblocks. Facebook, however, is helping women turn to each other before they turn to formula. Jeannine Fisk of Eau Claire, Wis., knew she wasn't producing enough milk for her son when he was 4 weeks old and still not gaining weight. When a midwife suggested that she use donated milk, another mother who was at the birth center offered to pump some milk for Fisk right then and there. Fisk got another 5 oz. from a neighbor and found three more donors via the "Hey Facebook" page and Craigslist. She saw her son grow from wan to chubby, and within three months she was able to increase her own milk production. Now, she's donating her oversupply and administrating the Wisconsin Eats on Feets page.</p> <p>Eats on Feets encourages women to make informed choices and provides information about risks and precautions, like flash-heating the milk. Research out of the University of California at Berkeley shows that <a href="http://berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2007/05/21_breastmilk.shtml" target="_blank">a simple stove-top method kills bacteria and HIV</a>. This makes milk sharing not so different from other feeding methods. "We need to be concerned with safety however we're feeding, whether we're using formula, goats' milk, breast milk," says Walker. "All of those need care and attention."</p> <p>As more and more women recognize the benefits of breast-feeding, experts predict there will be more demand for human milk, particularly in the U.S., which is the only industrialized country that does not guarantee paid maternity leave — and thus makes it difficult for working moms to breast-feed their babies. In December, the FDA will hold a meeting on milk banking. "There are quite a few of us [in the public health community] who believe that we need to face it and do something about it," says Labbok. The virtual village, it seems, is one step ahead of them. </p> <span><br />Read more: <a style="color: rgb(0, 51, 153);" href="http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,2032363,00.html#ixzz168u5Rsba">http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,2032363,00.html#ixzz168u5Rsba</a></span></div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-45350142174327789652010-11-15T09:07:00.003-05:002010-11-15T10:08:27.085-05:00Motherlove as this week's #BfCafe Sponsor (Nov 18th)<div style="text-align: center;">Lot's of my online breastfeeding mamas are also cloth diaper users!<br />Stick around even if you don't use cloth because although breastfeeding and cloth diapers run in the same circle,<a href="http://www.motherlove.com/product/2301-Diaper-Rash-and-Thrush.html"> Motherlove </a>has products that work for either, or both!<br />This week we are going to talk about the dreaded.....THRUSH!<br />I had it BAD. Worse than bad. With Zealand, being my first, I had little (if any) support. Tears would silently fall from my eyes as the pain was unbearable. I searched out information all over the internet.<br />There were NO visible signs on either of us. By the time I dragged my butt to the hospital's lactation consultant....my nipples were purple. Besides the coloring change, we both still have no signs. I had my OB call in a script, telling him that our Pediatrician had recommended it. I tried gentian violet, olive oil, vinegar, bleaching my bras and breast pads, hot water on ALL towels & clothing....you name it...I tried it.<br />If you have been around on my blog for awhile, you know I also have battled HUGE diaper rashes with my babies. I even sought out a rash specialist (see my <a href="http://zealandsmom.blogspot.com/2009/11/stripping-diapers-101-from-rash.html">post here</a> about that conversation)!<br />Not only is is difficult to diagnose a rash, but when you use cloth, you have to be careful about which creams and ointments you use!<br />After months.....and I mean MONTHS and creams after creams, I came to find out that they had ammonia burn from the diapers just not getting clean enough....see my <a href="http://zealandsmom.blogspot.com/2010/07/secret-is-about-to-be-revealed-getting.html">post here</a> about how I got the ammonia out.<br />I had thought the kids had thrush on their hineys and since I am still nursing Kingsley, I needed to treat myself for thrush, if perhaps we were exchanging it back and forth!<br />I tried EVERY cream, mix of creams imaginable!<br />(Often Doctors will NOT treat mom, if child had thrush & still nursing....but for the life of me I cannot understand why. TREAT mom and baby together....always!)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.motherlove.com/product/2301-Diaper-Rash-and-Thrush.html">Motherlove</a> has ONE product for this debacle. ONE! Not jars and jars but one single jar.<br /><a href="http://www.motherlove.com/product/2301-Diaper-Rash-and-Thrush.html">Diaper Rash and Thrush</a>.<br />Great to use on both cloth and disposable diapers.<br />As always this is an organic product!<br />This can be used on baby's rash as well as mother's nipples. No need to wash off prior to nursing!<br />(My main advice for using this product as well as others when dealing with thrush is:<br /> DO NO DOUBLE DIP!<br />Use different fingers when applying generously!<br /><br />Motherlove will be giving a jar of their <a href="http://www.motherlove.com/product/2301-Diaper-Rash-and-Thrush.html">Diaper Rash & Thrush</a> to 3 winners!<br /><br />RSVP to win below<br />and<br />For additional entries please leave a comment per entry below if you:<br />Fan <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#%21/pages/BfCafe/124111407632462">#BfCafe</a> in Facebook<br />Fan <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotherloveHerbal">Motherlove</a> on Facebook<br />Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/motherloveherb">@motherloveherb</a> on twitter<br />Leave a review of one of their products on their site!<br />Tweet Thursday's chat & let's get a HUGE group together (1 entry per tweet)<br /><br /><script src="http://www.linkytools.com/basic_linky_include.aspx?id=56526" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-5931706059939415752010-11-13T22:13:00.001-05:002010-11-13T22:16:27.459-05:00Breastfeeding in the News...Taipai<h1 class="title"><a href="http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2010/11/10/2003488177">Breastfeeding act passes into law</a></h1> <h3 class="a2"><span class="a1">RIGHT TO FEED:</span>Advocates have sought the right for women to nurse their children in public since 2005, when mothers were asked to leave a Taipei attraction</h3> <div class="reporter">By Flora Wang / Staff Reporter</div> <div class="text"> <p>The Legislative Yuan yesterday passed the Act Governing Breastfeeding in Public Places (公共場所母乳哺育條例), which makes it illegal for anyone to prevent women from breastfeeding in public.</p><p>The act stipulates that anyone who prohibits a woman from breastfeeding in public or asks that she leave a specific area to do so will face a fine of between NT$6,000 and NT$30,000.</p><p>The act also requires that department stores, megastores, government agencies, train stations, airports and public transit areas provide a breastfeeding room. Failure to abide by this requirement could result in a maximum fine of NT$30,000.</p><p>Those establishments will have one year to make breastfeeding rooms available from the time the act is promulgated.</p><p>Legislators also passed an additional resolution calling on the Department of Health to actively promote breastfeeding.</p><p>The resolution nevertheless said the department should abide by the WHO spirit of respecting a mother’s decision about whether to breastfeed.</p><p>“Breastfeeding is how a mother shows her love for her children as well as a woman’s right,” Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Huang Sue-ying (黃淑英) told the legislature after the bill was passed.</p> <p>“This country should create a breastfeeding-friendly environment so that women can feel comfortable nursing their babies,” she said.</p><p>Prior to passage of the bill, Taipei City on April 1 became the first city in Taiwan to implement the Public Breastfeeding Regulation (公共場所母乳哺育自治條例) guaranteeing a mother’s right to breastfeed in public.</p><p>Under the regulations adopted by Taipei, anyone who tries to prevent a mother from breastfeeding in public is subject to a fine of between NT$5,000 and NT$30,000.</p><p>Advocates of breastfeeding had been fighting for the right to breastfeed in public since a number of women in October 2005 were asked by Taipei Story House to leave because they were nursing their babies.</p> </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-57341418167170246212010-11-07T00:13:00.002-04:002010-11-07T00:17:29.882-04:00Breastfeeding in the News....Sydney<h1 class="cN-headingPage prepend-5 span-11 last"> <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/wellbeing/blogs/chew-on-this/breastfeeding--what-makes-women-give-up/20101101-179dr.html">Breastfeeding - what makes women give up? </a></h1> <!-- cT-storyDetails --> <cite>November 2, 2010</cite><br /><br /><br /><p>It’s the mother of all myths – that breastfeeding puts paid to perky breasts. But if you want the real culprit for any post-baby droop, it’s pregnancy itself – mainly the effects of gravity, weight gain and stretched skin followed by weight loss after the birth, says lactation expert Dr Jennifer James. Other factors could be older age, having a higher BMI or a history of smoking, according to a small 2008 study by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery which concluded that breastfeeding wasn’t to blame.</p> <p>But rather than working against reclaiming your shape after pregnancy, breastfeeding is an ally, helping to shed extra fat stores laid down for breastfeeding, adds James, senior lecturer in Midwifery, Breastfeeding and Human Lactation at RMIT University. </p> <p>Along with the breastfeeding-ruins-breasts myth there’s what James calls the ‘yuk factor’ – the attitude of 18 to 24 year olds who, in a survey commissioned by the Australian Lactation Consultants’ Association last year, were the age group that was least supportive of breastfeeding in public. James believes this younger age group finds it hard to reconcile breasts as both sexual assets and sources of baby food. </p> <p>But she doubts these attitudes are the main reasons why so few Australian women do what the World Health Organisation and Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council urge women to do - give babies no food other than breastmilk for the first six months. </p> <p>If there were pills conferring the same benefits as breastfeeding, they’d be hot sellers. Besides giving babies the best nutritional start, breastmilk lowers the risk and severity of common illnesses like ear infections, gastroenteritis, respiratory and urinary infections, thrush and conjunctivitis, says James. According to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, babies who aren’t breastfed have a higher risk of asthma, insulin dependent diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease – so it’s no wonder health authorities want women to keep it up for six months and then continue for two years or more if they can. As for women themselves, breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, while some research also suggests that women who breastfeed are less likely to develop diabetes.</p> <p>Yet although about 90 per cent of first time mothers start off breast feeding, only about 20 per cent are still feeding their babies with breastmilk alone at six months. The rest have either given up or are combining breastmilk with other foods – even though breastmilk provides all the nutrients a baby needs until six months. </p> <p>“I think body image is low on the list of reasons why - the real barriers are a lack of understanding of how breastfeeding works, its importance for babies’ health, and how breastfed babies behave. There can be unrealistic expectations that babies sleep a lot and regularly wake for feeds and then sleep some more. That’s not the way babies are designed, but if a baby’s more wakeful then breastfeeding can get the blame. There’s also pressure to return to work and the fact that women don’t get enough support to keep on breastfeeding,” James says.</p> <p>You might think breastfeeding comes as easily as breathing, but one of the shocks of new motherhood can be discovering that some babies take a while to ‘get’ breastfeeding. That’s fine if you’re in hospital for a few days with professional help, but many women are discharged in 48 hours and may go home not knowing what to do if breastfeeding doesn’t go smoothly. Nor can new mothers just walk into their local maternal and child health centre for advice and reassurance as they did in the past – they now have to make appointments, James says.</p> <p>We’ve come a long way since 1950s when breastfeeding was seen as something nice women didn’t do. The pro-breastfeeding movement that swept in on a wave of feminism in the 70s promoted a more natural approach to both childbirth and feeding babies, and since then breastfeeding’s approval rating has grown. But with more women returning to work and lack of support to put it into practice, breastfeeding hasn’t got any easier, says James.</p> <p>“Mothers and babies need two to three months to establish breastfeeding and feel they have it under control. The proposed 18 weeks maternity leave for all women is good – but we’re still lagging behind Scandinavian countries like Sweden which offers six months.”</p> <p><strong>What’s been your experience with this? Has breastfeeding been difficult, a breeze – or just impossible because of pressure to return to work?</strong></p><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" />zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-662338800506994872.post-21838725479267265442010-11-01T22:40:00.004-04:002010-11-03T22:34:06.343-04:00Mommy Breastfeeds my Baby Brother #BfCafe<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVV6t0SxzFcyo8zAyI6olTDWDHhCJoMuyqPqUdCKymXCdrrR4EK1VAbisNH8pWoQ1V2lEpWj_A2ghT74XdHeLPKCQv2iYE-f9T7fO08j6qTrdM2anhuu9z3gKtVLmDmajLFQf12amEbY/s1600/mommy+book.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 203px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVV6t0SxzFcyo8zAyI6olTDWDHhCJoMuyqPqUdCKymXCdrrR4EK1VAbisNH8pWoQ1V2lEpWj_A2ghT74XdHeLPKCQv2iYE-f9T7fO08j6qTrdM2anhuu9z3gKtVLmDmajLFQf12amEbY/s400/mommy+book.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534785799063624194" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mommybreastfeeds.com/">Mommy Breastfeeds my Baby Brother</a> by Istoria House is this week's sponsor for #BfCafe.<br />Zealand was only 14 months old when Kingsley was born, so he obviously didn't have many questions for me. He has however shown some signs of jealousy throughout these past 22 months of me nursing Kingsley.<br />I am in awe of breastfeeding books. I love that we can take a story and that it can really truly hit home. I love that my children see this book, when we sit down and read and re-read and re-read it and they feel this is a completely normal book to read!<br />The author uses the terms breasts and booby in the book to show that terms are loosely yet commonly interchanged. He also (yes! HE) notes points on pumping and having a special "Feeding Time Toys".<br /><br />I think <a href="http://mommybreastfeeds.com/">the story</a> hits home with the majority of the moms that come to chat during #BfCafe. I think this book would be an AMAZING baby shower gift for a mom who is expecting her second child. I really, really love this book. It is so simply written, that any toddler would not only understand that concept but as a Mom, you can see that these exact conversations probably happened within your own home. The colors and illustrations are definitely eye-catching and page turning!<br /><br />This week I wanna talk about how to nurse when you have an older sibling.<br />What about tandem nursing, when you have to offer breast more<br />with a newborn than with the older child?<br /><br />I know with me, even though I was no longer nursing Zealand when Kingsley came, when he asked to nurse, I let him.<br />When he wanted to sit on my lap, we all sat together.<br /><br />Let's also talk about the importance of teaching our children the benefits of nursing at a young age and how we can do it.<br /><br />3 winners will win a copy of <a href="http://mommybreastfeeds.com/">Mommy Breastfeeds My Baby Brother by Istoria House</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mommy-Breastfeeds-My-Baby-Brother/73054534596?v=app_135607783795&ref=ts"><span style="font-weight: bold;">THIS JUST IN!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ISTORIA HOUSE WANTS TO CELEBRATE THE KICK OFF OF THEIR RELEASE TO BUY ON FACEBOOK BY OFFERING THEIR FANS THE BOOK FOR ONLY $9.99 $ FREE SHIPPING!!!!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Become a fan on facebook and receive MORE of a deal when you order!</span></a><br />This deal is ONLY for November...so pick up a book or two for baby showers!<br /><br />For a chance to win 1st RSVP with the MckLinky below:<br />enter your twitter name like: @zealandsmom<br />and the link should link to your twitter name like: www.twitter.com/zealandsmom<br /><br />For additional ways to enter please enter ONE comment PER entry:<br />Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/MommyBreastfeed">@mommybreastfeed </a>on twitter<br />Fan Mommy Breastfeeds My Baby Brother on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mommy-Breastfeeds-My-Baby-Brother/73054534596?v=wall">Facebook</a><br /><br /><script src="http://www.linkytools.com/basic_linky_include.aspx?id=53756" type="text/javascript"></script><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeLM-pjwdXXBSHyGWSK7RlwR3m4-8WchYgttHbuHpoad7eyKDeyTiEb2hhrUqORRZbXufTnqU-7FGHsj5W8KDk6M4ezbavFTMKefHhf5U9Gu8VxMfHd366p2LWilhNW652KrB3X8Yu24e/s374/signature.png" align="right" /><br /></div>zealandsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13651654526153514070noreply@blogger.com5