Tag Archives: Baby

by | November 13, 2010

One Whole Year Event Day 3: HappyBaby!

Welcome to Day 3 of my One Whole Year Giveaway Event! (Remember, to enter you must visit the original One Whole Year giveaway post, and complete the mandatory entry first. ALL extra entries must also appear on THAT post!)

So far, I’ve announced 2 prizes in the package:

  • One Kawaii Minky Bamboo one size cloth diaper in the new olive green color
  • The in-stock baltic amber teething necklace of your choice from Inspired by Finn!

Are you excited yet? :D

Today’s featured sponsor is HappyBaby!

We love HappyBaby products in our house. Yes, I make a lot of our baby food, but when I do buy it, I always buy organic and I love love love to find unique varieties to feed my son. I’m a firm believer in introducing lots of different tastes and ingredients early on to develop a broad palate, and HappyBaby helps me do that!

Mama Grain with quinoa, banana and black beans? Banana, beet and blueberry? Yes, please!

By far, our favorite product from HappyBaby is the Organic Puffs. We NEVER leave home without them, and the sight of a puff cures most cranky moments in an instant. Sure, lots of companies make puffs. They’re pretty simple, but HappyBaby’s puffs are organic,  contain 1/2 the sugar of many of the other leading brands, are made with whole grains and come in BPA-free containers that are sourced through a green partnership with Method.

By NOT using pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically engineered ingredients, HappyBaby supports sustainable agriculture, so I support them. :) Be sure to check out even more reasons to love HappyBaby, including their work with Project Peanut Butter and how your purchase helps feed children in Malawi, on their Our Promise to You page.

The Prize? I’m getting to that… ;)

HappyBaby has generously offered my lucky One Whole Year winner a copy of their book, HappyBaby: The Organic Guide to Baby’s First 24 Months! (Written by Dr. Sears.) This book is full of answers to all the important questions about feeding baby, and your whole family, well. It also addresses living a greener lifestyle and making your home healthy. Inside, you’ll even find over $100 in coupons!

But that’s not all. My winner will also receive a set of FREE trial coupons for HappyBaby products, a nutrition guide and HappyBaby recipes! 8O
Not bad, eh? Thanks, HappyBaby!

For an extra entry into the One Whole Year giveaway: Visit HappyBaby’s website and leave me a comment on the original One Whole Year post letting me know what you like about HappyBaby! Good luck and thanks for celebrating with us!

**Make sure to complete the mandatory entry first! Mandatory entry and ALL extra entries must appear on the original One Whole Year post! (NO entry comments on this post, please!)

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Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the HappyBaby Organic Guide for review purposes. All other products mentioned were purchased by me and are used in my household. I was not compensated for my review and all opinions are my own based on personal experience with the product.
Sorry, this contest open to US residents only (Please note: My EcoMom giveaway is open to residents of US and Canada!) Entries will be accepted through 11/18. I will choose a winner via Random.org on 11/19. Winner will be contacted via email (please leave your email address!)  and will have 48 hours to respond and claim prize package or a new winner will be chosen.

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by | August 21, 2010

My 100th post: Reflections and Goals

(Cue balloons and confetti… oh, and presents are OK, too!)

Hooray for my 100th post!! Woooo!

Well, we’ll just pretend this is my 100th post. It’s actually 102, but this has been a thoroughly crappy week so I blew right past it. Today, however, is a better day. :D

I started my blog in March, when my son was a few months old and I was getting back into the groove of things after my maternity leave. I was adjusting to new mommyhood, had just returned to work part-time, and was looking for a way to hold on to my interests, do a little writing and maybe meet some new like-minded friends. And, to be perfectly honest, I really just wanted to learn a little bit about how to use my computer.

I had no idea what I was in for! I can do things with my trusty Mac that I never thought I could (I’ve even had people ask ME for help!), and I’ve learned countless other things from the many blogs I’ve discovered. I’d go so far to say that blogging has affected the way I live down to the very core! Not only do I get to write about topics that interest me, but there are actual people out there –really inspirational, supportive, and amazingly talented people –who share my opinions, ideas and passions! Luckily, you all share your knowledge, too! What a gift to have found you all, especially since my life is not overflowing with people who share my views on most things.

(Plus, every so often, I even get a sample or two of something fun in the mail! Bonus!)

These days, my son is going on ten months old, reaching new milestones every day, and starting to enjoy the foodie action that goes on in my household. I’m considering going back to work full-time, for various reasons, which will alter my lifestyle to some extent. So, I thought it was about time to restate my mission here and clarify for everyone what you’ll be seeing in the coming months!

1. More Food!

Yes, food will still be here.

Old favorites…

and new!

Healthy, natural foods, gardening, and fun kitchen adventures are such big parts of my life that my blog wouldn’t be my blog without them. I’m lucky enough to have a husband that will try anything, and I’m hoping that love of exploration passes on to our son (I have a good feeling it already has…) I will be keeping my personal circumstances in mind when choosing foods, so here are some of the criteria that will guide my way…

  • We are still nursing, and hoping to add another little one to our family, so high nutrient value is very important. Low-fat and low-cal are not so important right now, but folate, calcium, protein and healthy fats sure are!
  • I am still hypertensive, so sodium is a concern. I do find that cutting out processed foods has made the biggest difference, however, so I do use a little salt in my cooking. No biggie.
  • I am still on hypothyroid medication, too. Not sure if diet or lifestyle can affect that, but I’d like to find out…
  • I’m not cutting out sugar, but I am cutting back on sugar. Being so tired and busy has caused me to turn to sugar a little more than I’d like, and given that diabetes does run in my family (and I had gestational diabetes) it’s something I’d like to conquer now. (Don’t think you won’t be seeing holiday cookies, though!)
  • Hydration, hydration, hydration! (More about this in tomorrow’s post! Don’t miss it!)
  • As always, I will continue to strive for a diet that is fresh and natural, with lots of whole foods and very little dairy. I’m thinking that gradually including my son into our family meals will provide even more incentive to stick to it…
  • Even within the restrictions of a busy schedule and tight budget, I will always choose local and organic foods when possible. That said, food also has to be interesting, fun and just plain good! 

2. Less Food!

That’s right. I know I just described my food mission, but I do have a life outside the kitchen and most of that part of my life revolves around this cute little one.

Just as with food, I strive for all things natural when it comes to raising my son. Most plastics are on their way out of our lives (I say that as I show you a picture of a plastic laundry basket :roll: I’m trying…), as are any other toxins we can get rid of. There are just SO many positive changes that can be made with just a little effort! The more I research and learn, there seems to be a better alternative for almost everything, from toys and diapers to household items and beauty products, and even the way we go about doing things, and I would like to share them as I find them.  

You’ll also see some posts about the struggles and triumphs of parenting. I believe in the concept of attachment parenting, which I look at as a very natural and intuitive way of raising children – a return to our instincts as mothers and parents. I breastfeed,  co-sleep (part-time) and engage in many other AP practices that keep my child close and connected. Attachment Parenting International lists the 8 principles of AP:

  • Prepare for Pregnancy, Birth and Parenting
  • Feed with Love and Respect
  • Respond with Sensitivity
  • Use Nurturing Touch
  • Ensure Safe Sleep, Physically and Emotionally
  • Provide Consistent and Loving Care
  • Practice Positive Discipline
  • Strive for Balance in Personal and Family Life

Nice, eh? But I also have a career that is important to me, and I’m not ready to abandon that at this point. So, while the two might seem in direct conflict with each other, I believe I can find a balance...the right balance, and I plan to share that journey here, too. After all, API describes the long-range vision of Attachment Parenting as raising children that will “become adults with a highly developed capacity for empathy and connection. It eliminates violence as a means for raising children, and ultimately helps to prevent violence in society as a whole.” So, it’s worth it, don’t you think?

Check out API for lots more great info on attachment parenting, and feel free to comment if you have any advice or tips for me! I’d love to hear from you! 

So, I’m excited to write my next 100 posts, and to read yours! If you have any friends that might share my interests, please tell them to drop by and introduce themselves. I’ll return the favor! 

I’ll do my best to stay current, but if I happen to drop off for a day or two, it just means I’m focusing my efforts on achieving that balance thing I mentioned earlier, and I’ll be back! Once in a while, a nap, tickle fight or impromptu picnic really can be the most important thing in the world. 

Happy blogging, everyone, and thanks for reading!

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by | July 23, 2010

My little fruit hugger

As usual, my Friday is out of control. They always are, especially because my alarm goes off at 3 am on Saturdays!

Couple my whack schedule with my lack of camera, and this has been one challenging week of blogging!

I’m trying not to stalk the UPS guy too hard, but my new camera is on its way, and I think I’ll have it tomorrow. Look out for picture mania, comin’ your way! I can’t wait!

So, I’m keeping this short and sweet today with one of the last pics I have from my dear old camera. :cry:

It’s my Hug-A-Fruit Month photo! :D

See how the diaper even matches? I totally didn’t even do that on purpose…

Happy Friday, everyone!

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I had a conversation about fruit with a coworker today. I say fruit should be hugged in all dishes, both savory and sweet. She said, “No way, fruit is fruit, dinner is dinner.” 

What do YOU say?

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by | July 8, 2010

Mommy and Me Hummus Recipe

I have been accused of being a little too cautious when it comes to introducing solids to my son.

My response? Well, I’ll let you guess. :x

I care...really care…about the relationship my son has with food, so yes, I’m pretty careful. The way I see it, that’s my job as his mother, so he doesn’t get a bite of french fry or a lick of an ice cream cone just to elicit a cute reaction. He’s 8 months old now, and so far his diet has consisted of:

  • Breastmilk
  • Water, as long as it doesn’t interfere with nursing
  • Oatmeal (at 5 1/2 months), organic
  • Veggies (at 6 months), organic
  • Fruits (at 6 months), organic
  • A total of 4 organic maple oat teether cookies
  • I’ve not yet introduced wheat, dairy, eggs, meats, soy, citrus, juice, sugar, salt …well, you get the idea.

But, I’m not a big meanie, either, and lately I’ve noticed my son noticing my plate. He always has, but it’s getting more obvious and he’s definitely getting more vocal about it. This tells me two things: I have to be super aware of the example I’m setting, and I need to start letting him try some new things.

So, a few days ago, while eating hummus on pita chips, I caved in and gave him a little taste.

How did he like it? Well, I think we may have a little hummus monster on our hands.

It was fun to share my food with my boy. Exploring healthy new foods together is one of the things I’ve been looking most forward to. But, as soon as I gave him a few smidges of my hummus, I immediately regretted it when I remembered that sesame, which is in most hummus, is a common allergen and should be avoided until about 12 months. ACK!

When I snapped back into reality and realized that one taste wasn’t going to hurt him, I set my mind to making some baby-friendly hummus that we could enjoy together, and that I could feel good about.

The recipe:

  • 1 1/2 cups cooked organic chickpeas
  • scant 1/4 tsp cumin
  • 1 small clove garlic
  • 1 drizzle olive oil
  • 1 squeeze fresh lemon

Add all ingredients into food processor and process until well blended and smooth. Add water to thin if needed.

There seem to be different schools of thought about citrus fruits and babies under one year in age. The acid in oranges, lemons, etc. can cause reactions and rashes, but I am not freaking out over a small squeeze in a bowl of hummus. I think WholesomeBabyFood.com put it best:

There is a big difference in using a drop or 2 of lemon juice as a preservative in a fruit purée, as the drop or 2 is spread throughout the purée and your infant will not be consuming the drops with each bite of fruit purée that is taken.  It is entirely different than offering your baby a few slices of oranges or chopped tomatoes for example.

Little did I know when I started making this that my husband had already unearthed our garden garlic and had it drying in the sun. This bulb was so warm and fragrant,  it felt like it had been in the oven! Heaven!

Looks pretty bland, huh? Well, it is. But that’s OK…it’s supposed to be, at least for now. Just a hint of garlic, and the cumin is barely detectable. I believe in introducing herbs and spices early, but little tummies are sensitive so they have to be introduced slowly and carefully. Besides, what seems bland to me is a whole new taste exploration for my little guy.

Since Mommy likes a little kick, we discovered a fun way to share our little pot of hummus so that we’re both happy…he eats his plain and unadulterated, and I keep a bottle of hot sauce nearby and drip a drop each time I pop a chip! Perfect!

The new hummus won rave reviews (or big smiles, at least.) He’ll never go through this whole bowl, but it was a good practice run. Next time, I’ll remove his portion and add some peppadews or sun-dried tomatoes to the rest, to be enjoyed by Mommy and Daddy (with some wine, after he nods off at night. ;) ) 

The best thing about this recipe (besides the fact that it’s cheap, easy and healthy, of course) is that it can grow right along with your baby! Veggies, spices and any other flavors you want to introduce can be added as his palate develops, and for toddlers, it’s right at home spread on whole wheat toast or nestled in a heated quesadilla, served with salsa. 

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What’s your favorite “Past Purees” baby or toddler recipe?

How do you respond when/if others challenge the way you feed your child? Would you ever challenge the way someone else fed their child? 

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by | July 3, 2010

If you don’t like you, who will?

According to Mothering Magazine, today is Compliment Your Mirror Day!

Seeing as how Mothering is the absolute BEST magazine on the face of the planet, I figure it must be true, and that’s got me thinking about how very few compliments I’ve been paying my mirror lately.

I’m afraid I’m falling into a really harsh period of self-criticism in my journey toward good health. You’d think that establishing healthier eating habits, becoming more in tune with my body, and trying to maintain a healthier lifestyle overall would make me feel pretty dang good about myself. But, I’m afraid the opposite may be happening. But, knowing myself and how self-critical I’ve always been, this really isn’t any big surprise. A positive self-image has never been easily attainable for me, and except for when I was pregnant and my body was doing something absolutely magical, I’ve never liked what I’ve seen in the mirror. 

I think it’s because I only see my weight, and I directly equate my weight with my self-discipline and ability to achieve a goal. So for me, weight=self-worth, whether I like it or not.

Now, I just have to figure out what to do about it.

Here are a few examples.

1. Not long ago, I ran to the grocery store to pick up a few items. I wanted some falafel mix, some whole wheat pitas, dates, all the normal stuff. My husband says to me on my way out the door, “Can you get me a bag of chips, and some frozen chicken pies for my lunch.” 8O (Yes, my husband has a certain fondness for the bachelor food of his past….I’ll just say EW! and save that for another post…) 

As I walked through the grocery store, I filled my cart with my whole grain, all-natural, feel-good picks, and then darted over to the chips and freezer aisles to pick up my husband’s requests. I realized something was up when I found myself darting through the store, sure that someone would see my cart and think, “Boy, that girl sure doesn’t need to be eating those potato chips…” I was on the verge of embarrassment at the checkout, wondering if I should make a comment about how I certainly didn’t plan to eat the offending items…

First, I was angry with my husband. I don’t ask him to buy tampons, so he shouldn’t ask me to buy frozen, processed chicken in a goopy crust made of who-knows-what. Same thing, don’t you think? Then, I was angry with myself. First, I thought, be reasonable…nobody eats perfectly all the time, and second, don’t flatter yourself…nobody cares what’s in your cart!!

2. It’s one thing if I can’t compliment my own mirror, but I just can’t seem to accept a compliment from anyone else, either. My husband, my mom, several coworkers, have all paid me compliments lately, ranging from how my skin has gotten so much better since I’ve given up processed foods to how good I look post-prego. I know that my skin has gotten better, and I know that I have lost all my pregnancy weight and fit into clothes now that I couldn’t even wear before I got pregnant, but it just doesn’t feel right to me to accept a compliment with denying it, or following it up with something like, “Thanks, but it’s really just the clothes that make me look thinner” or  ”I really should be exercising more because I’m so out of shape.”

I know it’s an unattractive way to be. Nobody likes a whiner. “Thank you” is what I should say. Just “Thank you.”

3. Today, I’m heading off to the biggest party of the year among my circle of friends. The 4th of July always brings crowds of people to an old friend’s house along the Susquehanna river, and it could easily turn into a 2-day event. Kegs of beer, lots of food, canoes and fireworks…it’s always a good time and a good chance to see all the people we don’t see all year long, including some who even come from out of state. 

I could be thinking of how much fun I’ll be having, but I’m not. I could be thinking about how much fun it will be to introduce my son to all the people who have not met him yet, but I’m not. My mind is on whether the new shorts I just got do a good enough job of hiding the body flaws I have since having my baby, and what I could possibly wear with them to emphasize the good and de-emphasize the bad. See, last year at this time I was a few months pregnant and I am absolutely terrified that someone at the party might snicker, “Wow, look how fat she got!” or “She’ll never look the same after having that baby.”

I’m so bad at group functions anyway because I get a bit of food phobia in a crowd. As in the grocery store, it goes back to thinking that everyone is going to notice what I eat and comment or wonder why I would possibly think it was a good idea to eat this, or that. I also feel that with my commitment to healthy eating, I might be considered a bit of a hypocrite is I indulge in some party food, I’ll discredit myself, and then all my hard work will be for naught.

Again, I don’t know why I think anyone even cares. In fact, I know that no one does. 

I am starting to become very aware of how observant my son is now that he’s not a newborn anymore, and how he is going to start really following my lead soon. I’m not kidding myself for one second into thinking that because I have a boy, I don’t have to worry about things like body image issues or self-love. My attitudes and behaviors will help mold the man he grows up to be, and I want the lens through which he views himself to be much, much more positive than mine, so I’d better get working on this. Nothing brings a bigger smile to his face right now than that baby in the mirror, and I’d like to keep it that way.

First step? I’m going to see how hot it is outside today, and I’m going to dress accordingly, so that I’m comfortable enough to wear my sling to carry around that perfect little being that this body created. If I don’t look perfect, so be it. And if I’m hungry, I’m going to make the best choice I can given the options at hand. 

And finally, if I pass a mirror in the course of my day, I’m going to tell that it doesn’t need to be perfect, because it’s pretty flippin’ remarkable the way it is. 

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What do you think when you look in the mirror?

Do you ever get self-conscious in the grocery store?

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