BABYOURSELF Magazine - January 2011

pampering for preggos

JANUARY 2011

**

2011 STYLES TO WATCH FOR

newborn diaper bag essentials Get an issue for FREE! Just txt ur name & addy to 407.490.4075

sanity for sleepless mommies

Breast or Bottle

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POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION two women’s battles

Baby Boot Camp ! a m m o m e h for t

2011

PHOTO COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD

It’s a New Year!

... with a new magazine! babyourself is Orlando’s premiere magazine for

new and expecting, modern mommies.

Read all about it, and how to advertise, at www.babyourself.com

PHOTO ŠiStockphoto.com/sonyae

See

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

babyourself Volume 2, Issue 1

From elation to sleep deprivation Nothing can prepare you for the months after having a baby. Diaper changes, trying to get the hang of breastfeeding, cleaning the umbilical cord, sore nipples, trimming tiny fingernails, sterilizing products, another diaper change, sleep schedules out of whack, and then – before you know it – you hit a wall.

Ph o t o b y Ce c e G l o v e r rapturephotoar t

You are overjoyed in awe with this miracle that has grown in your body and is finally here, but why do you spend hours in tears? Why do you sometimes not even know why you’re crying? There’s this notion of, “You should be happy! You just had a baby!” However, a tug-of-war happens in your heart pulling you from one extreme to another. How can you be so in love with your baby one minute, then filled with exhaustion and defeat the next?

In this issue, we are featuring the very real facts of what happens postpartum. You will learn about the details surrounding postpartum blues and depression. You will read the very powerful first-person stories of some brave women. And you will also learn some helpful tips and resources to help if – or should I say when – you encounter the unexpected period of your life called postpartum.

If you are in the midst of your postpartum, I hope that the information in this issue will help you see that you’re not alone. I hope it gives you the courage to reach out for help if you are having a rough time. If you are still pregnant, I hope this prepares you. Save this issue as reading material after you come home from the hospital.

And if you are a husband, sister, or friend to a new mommy, read these articles on how you can be an encouragement to her.

Babying yourself is necessary at all kinds of times and seasons. And I say that there is no better time than in your postpartum to make sure you are properly caring for yourself.

January 2011

www.babyourself.com www.facebook.com/babyourself www.twitter.com/babyourself 321-696-3962

EDITOR IN CHIEF kristi corley

CREATIVE DIRECTOR elisabeth nixon

WRITERS kim daniels angel feltman jennifer hatcher heather mcleod april merritt - md elisabeth myrick dina saunders

FOOD AND DINING tracy guenther vickie myers

CONTRIBUTING WRITER andy corley

EDITOR jennifer hatcher

PHOTOGRAPHY elisabeth nixon photography

WEB AND DESIGN

Kristi Corley

andy corley

editor in chief

To advertise in babyourself call 321-696-3962 or email advertising@babyourself.com

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babyourself.com • January 2011

No Need To Have Those Baby Blues!

Healthy baby—Yes! Now healthy YOU too!

Nutritional needs before, during and after pregnancy are as important for you as they are for your baby.

Did you know that foods rich in B vitamins can help treat anemia, promote growth & rejuvenation and improve memory—all supporting good mood and enduring energy?

Your Nutrition Partners offers a signature Pea-in-a-PodTM Nutrition & Health Pregnancy Program geared for the development of your whole healthy family! Learn how food & lifestyle choices can impact the health of you and your baby for life!

Contact: info@yournutritionpartners.com 407.761.8143 Your Nutrition Partners provides individual nutritional assessments for weight loss, nutrient deficiencies, food intolerances and more. Don’t Wait Another Bite! TM Healthy Counseling to the Core

www.yournutritionpartners.com

babyourself january 2011

CONTENTS

know yourself 8

6 Ask the Doc Baby Blues, or Postpartum Depression?

8 Real and Raw Stories from two moms with PPD 14 Breast or Bottle? Four moms tell what they chose PHOTOS COURTESY EL ISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY

read for yourself

12 Dads to Dads How to care for her 13 Reality Chic Sleep is a precious thing 16 Baby Boot Camp Bring your baby. Get fit.

style yourself

20 16

20 Featured Nursery unique, handmade accents 22 Diaper Bag Must-haves What’s in your bag?

25 2011 Maternity Styles Looking ahead to Spring

nutrition for yourself

28 Avacado and Sweet Potato Benefits of these superfoods 30 Make Your Own Baby Food It’s easier than you think!

31 Border Turkey Soup Chase away the winter blahs

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24

30

babyourself ASK THE DOC

What Is The Difference Between

The Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression?

Dr. April Merritt Delaney OB/GYN

Postpartum depression is so very common and yet, it can be so very taboo to talk about. So we are going to break it down and list the facts.

I should point out that all signs and symptoms are variable. Some women may exhibit many signs, while others show only a few. Remember to look at the big picture.

Postpartum Blues:

This is very common, even normal. It can start a day or two after delivery and last 12-14 days.

This is crying when your baby cries, checking on your baby two-dozen times in an hour and worrying if the baby should be woken up to eat yet or if you should let the baby sleep. This is crying as you make a bottle or yelling at your husband and then crying about it.

Think about this -- You’ve just brought a human being into this world. Some people can’t bake a cake, yet you’ve brought forth a person. It is normal to obsess and cry. You’ve given birth to a person, and now you are trying to clothe and feed that person on his or her schedule, and you aren’t even sure what his or her schedule is! Did you ever start a new job knowing all of your coworkers’ wants and needs or every little thing your boss wanted and how she wanted it done? Of course not! As the baby (your new boss) makes your schedule and you both adjust, things will get easier. That is why this lasts about 2 weeks. This is more frustration than clinical depression.

Husbands, a word if I may. Smile. Encourage. Understand this won’t last forever. The laundry does not have to be done; the dishes can wait; and sometimes take-out food can be a great meal. It’s adjustment time for everybody, and you’ll both need to grit your teeth and get through as you figure out what works for your baby, your partner, and you, as things slowly settle into a rhythm.

Postpartum Depression:

This develops in 10-20% of women who have just had a baby. If you were on an antidepressant before pregnancy, 60% of you will relapse after having a baby.

Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression include: * Fatigue or decreased energy (What new mom does not have this?) * Irritability or restlessness (This is more than just with your husband. Friends and family may notice it too.) * Sad, anxious or “empty” feelings (You want to be happy about your baby, but you are sad and frustrated about the baby.) * Insomnia (This is the not the mom who cannot sleep when baby naps. This is the mom who is not sleeping – period.) * Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness (You feel so guilty and helpless you cannot care for your baby the majority of the time and even have trouble caring for yourself.) * Appetite issues (This is a hard one because new moms feel fat and sometimes don’t want to eat. This is variable.)

* Loss of interest in sex or pleasurable things (This one is variable too. Sex drive is decreased with breast-feeding, and it is hard to do fun stuff when you are postpartum. It is hard to have sex or take interest in sex if you are tired.

It is just plain hard to have fun with your spouse in the first few months after having a baby.) * Thoughts of wanting to hurt yourself or your baby (This is a RED flag. It’s a sure sign you should get help immediately!)

So what do you do if you have any of these signs or symptoms? You pick up the phone and call your doctor! This does not make you a bad mommy. It makes you a great mommy because you are trying to get healthy for your baby.

Depression has nothing to do with love or want or need. Get help. Do not be embarrassed. Be proud that you are giving your baby a healthier mommy.

Fourth "The y ter" b Trimes horn in Amy E Merritt il Dr. Apr

Treatment Options Antidepressants

Some are designed to work for mommies who have anxiety mixed with depression; some are designed to work for mommies with low energy and depression. Your doctor will listen to your symptoms and find the medication that is right for you.

You will not magically get better after the first pill.

Most of these pills take 4-6 weeks before you see the full effect. Be patient.

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babyourself.com • January 2011

Counseling

A pill works well if it is straight-up postpartum depression; however a pill will not fix issues that are now exacerbated by having a baby – relational issues with extended family, marital problems, or unresolved issues from your past .

A Little of Both Please

Medication can help, but what will really seal the deal and make you feel whole again are coping skills. You have just been through a major life change. Counseling may offer more help than medication alone.

[

real & raw

]

These are the stories of two women’s battles with postpartum depression. Most new mothers have some baby blues, but postpartum depression this severe is rare. However, we share these stories because mothers suering with postpartum depression often feel isolated and alone. If you identify with these women, if you see yourself in their stories, know that you are not alone, you are not isolated. We encourage you to talk to a trusted friend or your spouse or your doctor and get the help you deserve.

[

Alena’s Story Six months ago I reached out. I was in a hole. I was alone and afraid, and I had no clue how this happened, when it happened, or why it was happening to me.

Looking back, I see the slippery slope that I stumbled down as my postpartum depression (PPD) got worse. I can see times where my rage took over, and I yelled and screamed and cried and – yes -- physically harmed myself.

Looking back on it now, it doesn’t seem possible that I was that person, that I would act that way or do the things I did. But it happened. And all it took for me to reach out and talk was someone saying they were going through it too. When I realized I wasn’t alone -- that it wasn’t just me -- I reached out immediately. I can still remember trying to stop crying just to finish my story.

Telling my husband was hard. He didn’t understand. Then he thought he had done something to upset me. He asked many times if he wasn’t doing something right. And that was difficult, because it wasn’t him and it wasn’t my baby, Sophia. It was me. It wasn’t the real me; it was what PPD had made me.

The day we went to make the appointment, my husband took off work to drive me, because I couldn’t seem to make the call. When we got to the therapist’s office I couldn’t get out of the car. I was terrified. I was so scared that the doctor wouldn’t be able to help me, that he would tell me the problem was simply that I was too weak. I was afraid that this hell was my forever-reality.

I was scared of being judged. I was so afraid that, when it was time for my actual appointment, I cried the entire way there. When I was filling out the paperwork, my hands wouldn’t write out what was going on. I wrote “will explain” over and over again. The moment I sat down with my therapist I started crying. He hadn’t even spoken, and I was crying. I cried the entire session, sometimes to the point I couldn’t breathe. I purged my thoughts; I purged my fears; I emotionally purged the past months of hell. And instead of telling me he couldn’t help me, instead of telling me “This is life; get over it”, he told me he wanted to help if I would let him. And then I cried some more.

I saw him weekly and sometimes more than once a week. I was given homework, relaxation CD’s, and books to read. I saw a physician and began taking medication. I put in a lot of hard work because I couldn't imagine the rest of my life feeling like what the past months had felt like.

I don’t remember the first night I got sleep without hearing the imaginary screaming in my head. But I know it happened. I don’t remember the first day I was able to go through the entire day without crying. But I know it happened. I do remember there was a night I played with Sophia and actually found joy. Before, no matter how much love I felt for her, I was missing the joy. Then, gradually, the joy began seeping back in.

It slowly felt as though my dark pit was becoming more shallow. It was like this dense fog wasn’t quite so dense. I was healing, and so my family was healing.

But is that the end? No. I still have to work through my triggers, which is easier some days than others. I am learning to get through the guilt of what I missed out on during those dark months and simply enjoy what is happening now. I can look at this year and see clearly that I’ve come a long way. I have climbed out of the hole. I am not alone any more. And the turning point came when I talked to one person.

- Alena, mommy to Sophia, 17 months

PHOTOS COURTESY EL ISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY

Telling one person, one person who cared, made the difference. She checked on me and made me accountable to talk to a therapist and to open up to my husband. She pushed me to do something I should have done months before.

When my son was born on October 14, 2009, I fell so in love that I thought I would explode into a trillion little pieces. Many people commented on how competent I was – calm, collected, confident. It felt like the most instinctive calling in my life. Nothing fazed me. We never even turned on the baby monitors - I was so sure that I did everything correctly and that he was safe.

I was in absolute bliss.

At three weeks, my son was diagnosed with Acid Reflux Disease. He began screaming and did not stop crying for four months. Every time he screamed, I felt like my head pounded with "bad mother, bad wife, bad daughter, bad woman." I began to feel isolated, despairing, and completely empty. Then I felt horribly guilty for that emptiness - I had a beautiful baby, a loving husband, a successful career, yet I was so horribly unhappy. I wanted to "snap out of it.” I tried exercising. I lost the baby weight.

I got a pedicure, had a spa day, took time for myself. My son was sleeping through the night, so sleep deprivation was not an issue. I went out with girlfriends, had date night with my husband, and bought a few new outfits.

I had everything that should equal a perfect life. And still I was not happy. I felt like a failure.

At home, every moment my baby cried, it shredded my confidence. When I returned to work, I felt even more despair. I likened returning to work 10

babyourself.com • January 2011

as a polar plunge to my entire system – emotional and physical. I felt such a state of shock at both work and home that I could not function. I was distracted and forgetful at work, exhausted at home. I was constantly choking back tears and fighting the guilt that beat down on me. I felt like my head pounded constantly with “bad mother, bad wife, bad employee.” Every time I fed him, tears spilled over his head. I was sorry that he didn’t smile for me, that he didn’t seem to know me. I was sorry that I couldn’t bear to be around him anymore. I was sorry that he didn’t get a better mother.

I thought I was going insane – manic in emotions, actions, moods. I was snapping at my husband, losing my cool on the mailman. One day, I almost hurt our dog when she woke my son up from a nap. Every morning commute, I imagined a car crash. At first, I felt afraid. Slowly, the dream and the emotion changed. I started picturing a truck, side-swiping the car right into the baby seat. I didn’t feel fear. I felt calm relief. I would sit and think on it for hours, replaying the scene and the relief in my head. Then guilt would come crushing down. What kind of mother thinks of her baby being hurt and instead of crippling with fear, she replays car crashes in her head? So I Googled adoption agencies. It’s not that I wanted to give him up. I felt like he deserved a better mother.

I was diagnosed with Postpartum Depression on February 17, 2010 by my OB/GYN. I began taking the antidepressent Celexa and began seeing a psychiatrist. I chose a practice in which the psychiatrists specialized in postpartum mood disorders. My psychiatrist agreed with the diagnosis of Postpartum Depression and also added the diagnosis of Postpartum Anxiety. Over the course of several months, I continued to see my psychiatrist weekly and increased the amount of anti-depressants under her supervision. I also took Klonipin for anxiety.

Unfortunately, my depression worsened and I was admitted to a postpartum psychiatry ward in the hospital on May 17, 2010 for a week of intense therapy and medical treatment. It was the most terrifying experience of my life, but thankfully it led me to a better doctor and better treatment.

Since the hospitalization, I began seeing a new psychiatrist and have continued on Zoloft (antidepressant) and Risperdol (antipsychotic). These days, I am combining therapy and medication, plus regular exercise and light therapy. The fog of postpartum depression is slowly lifting. I finally enjoy life again - my son's smile, a hug from my husband, my job. I feel like me again, instead of like an empty shell of a human, ravaged by depression. I am forever thankful. I am healing.

- Beth Anne, mommy to Harrison, 14 months

PHOTOS COURTESY EL ISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY

Beth Anne’s Story

What your family can do to help Don’t be afraid to ask for help during this time. If family or friends ask how they can help you, think about giving them small things to do, such as: *Assisting with the housework *Running errands *Taking care of the new baby or other children * Spending quiet time with you * Learning more about PPD *Talking to your children about what mommy is going through

Help is available Postpartum Support International

Depression After Delivery

805-967-7636

to request an information packet

27 North Kellog Avenue Santa Barbara, CA 93111

91 East Somerset Street Raritan, NJ 08869-2129

800-944-4773

The National Depressive and Manic -Depressive Association 800-826-3632

www.depressionafterdelivery.com Or, if you live in the Orlando area, you can call, Mary Jacob, EdD, ARNP, CS Lutheran Counceling Services 407-644-4692 babyourself.com • January 2011

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babyourself DADS TO DADS

How Can I Help Her?

As of last week I’ve been a husband for 14 years and a dad - of three - for nearly 12 years. I’ve cut the cord at my son’s birth and tried to catch my youngest daughter as she was delivered - a story for another day!

What we’re talking about today is how to successfully navigate the post-baby-delivery blues that cause deep distress for so many women.

First, you need to accept your wife’s mood swings as normal no matter how much your sweetheart flips from Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde. You have to slow down, turn off the NFL game, and actually listen to what she is feeling. If it helps, I give you permission to not say anything at all. Just sit in the same room with her for a while.

Second - once you have a good idea of how bad she feels - ask her what she’s eaten so far today, and offer to get her a cool drink of water or her favorite beverage. I think you’ll be surprised to find that she most likely hasn’t eaten or drunk anything at all! So this is your duty. Make sure she gets the most basic necessities for herself, because she probably won’t ask.

Third -- and this is the most important thing you can “do”.

Go to the store at the very first signs of the blues and buy her whatever she normally craves, indulgences that may not always be on hand.

This is not a time to think about health and wellness; it’s a time to think about what she craves. In my wife’s case, this means picking up dark chocolates and her favorite wine.

Fourth, offer to take one feeding a day. I know this sounds strange, but she needs to see you bond with your baby. And even if she’s breastfeeding, most women are glad to pump - and even freeze a few ounces for later - if she can have a break and see you caring in such a real way.

So to make this easy for you, here’s the quick list: 1. Shut up and listen.

2. Make sure she has food and water.

3. Buy what she craves.

4. Offer to feed Baby.

One final tip. When she asks you to help in other ways - especially when she asks you to change a diaper - put on your game face and be a man. No, be more than a man. You’re a dad.

PHOTOS COURTESY ELISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY

by Andy Corley

Reality

Chic

Then I would lie down on the couch and turn on PBS for the four-year-old (who was safe in a six-sided play-yard with her favorite toys) and the five-year-old (who I made sit at my feet so I could feel when she tried to escape).

a real mom with real kids & a really messy home

I remember fantasizing about hiring a babysitter and then driving somewhere to sleep in my car. The most romantic thing my husband could do for me was to hand me some earplugs and say, “Go take a nap. I’ve got the kids.”

At some point, when I was pregnant with my sixth child in seven-and-a-half years, I realized I hadn’t slept longer than four hours at a time in nearly a year. I was seriously sleep-deprived and I had just snapped at a dear friend of mine. Horribly embarrassed, I apologized through tears. I felt like I was barely hanging on, but I hadn’t realized until that moment how sleep-deprived I actually was.

B

efore I became a mom, I had some notions about what motherhood would be like. Some of those notions were accurate – snuggling a fresh-smelling new baby, hearing a toddler call out “Mahmah” and wobbling her way to me, reading board books and using all the voices, singing lullabies, and baking cookies.

But nobody told me the reality of motherhood - So much of a mother’s life revolves around two things: bodily functions and the need for sleep.

month old, and she was screaming. I was trying to get her to nurse. Again. I had already changed her diaper, burped her, changed her clothes, put socks on her, held her every conceivable way you can hold a baby, and walked laps around our very tiny house with her. I was exhausted. So I rocked her, and she screamed, and I cried. I had never wanted sleep so badly.

I remember standing over the crib of my third baby. I had a three-year-old and a twenty-one-month-old, and they We’ll probably cover bodily functions were both napping. I desperately wanted another time because I sure do have my two-month-old son to get with the PLENTY to say about that. Way more program and fall asleep as well. I needed than I ever dreamed, actually. But right a nap! But he would not cooperate. I now, the topic is sleep. laid him in his crib and patted his back.

Through tears, I begged him “Nobody ever told me that sleep to sleep.

is the Holy Grail of motherhood."

For several years my main quest in life was sleep -- a long, solid block of uninterrupted slumber. I never understood how Esau in the Bible could have sold his birthright for a bowl of soup; but I sure would have empathized with him if he’d sold it for a solid 8 hours of sleep!

I remember rocking my first daughter in the middle of the night. She was one

When I was pregnant with baby number five, I had that first trimester, placenta-making exhaustion going on. I needed naps – I probably needed a long hibernation, but a nap a day would do. Sadly, some of my children didn’t take naps anymore. So I had to get creative! I would put the baby in his crib to nap and the toddler in his crib (complete with crib tent to confine the little Houdini).

Perhaps it was then, perhaps it was sometime soon after, I happened upon the idea that I could take time off, a night away.

To sleep. To eat a hot meal. To sleep. To read – forget books, I just wanted to read an entire magazine article without being interrupted. But mostly, to sleep. Fortunately, my husband agreed that the cost of a night at a nearby hotel was a good trade-off for a well-rested, more pleasant wife and momma.

And with this discovery – a local hotel – my quest for sleep was complete. I had found the Holy Grail. You might find this Holy Grail of sleep with a pair of earplugs and a white-noise sound machine.

Or you may find it by hiring a babysitter to play with your children downstairs while you nap upstairs. Or you may find it in the offer of a friend to take your baby to her home so you can stay home and sleep.

My advice to you – keep searching. You need sleep. It truly is not a luxury and you should not feel guilty. You NEED sleep. Crib tents for the toddler, PBS for the preschooler, a babysitter for the infant – do whatever works for you, but get some sleep. You won’t get judgment from me.

This is the reality of motherhood – sleep is a precious thing.

-by Jennifer Hatcher

babyourself.com • January 2011

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Breast or Bottle?

PHOTOS COURTESY EL ISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY

Each experience is unique just like your precious baby

“I'd always intended to exclusively breastfeed my daughter as I believed (and still do) breast is best. At first, it seemed everything was going perfectly, until we took her to her first pediatrician appointment at 5 days old. Kendall had lost over a pound and was jaundiced. The lactation consultant and pediatrician recommended I pump and supplement with formula to get her weight up, while continuing to work on Kendall’s terrible latch issues. To up my supply, she also recommended that I nurse every two hours and pump after each feeding and in between. As a first time mom, I was overwhelmed at the idea of being attached to my pump every hour and nursing in between so my husband and I made the difficult decision to exclusively pump and supplement with formula. I continued this arrangment until Kendall was 5 months old, even after returning to work. Eventually, it was just too exhausting and the majority of her bottles were formula, not breastmilk, so I hung up my pump horns, and switched to formula full time. It was heartbreaking to let go of the exclusive breastfeeding idea, but in the end, I have a healthy beautiful baby girl, which is all that matters.” - Elisabeth

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"When I began breastfeeding my first child I was overwhelmed and uneducated...therefore I only lasted 3 weeks before switching to formula. During my second pregnancy I made up my mind that I wanted the best nutrition for my new baby and that I would reach out to other mothers who had had a successful experiences. This made all the difference in the world and made breastfeeding my second and third child a joyful experience...I lost my baby weight quickly and I felt so empowered knowing that everytime they ate they were receiving the best nutrition possible. I'm looking forward to a successful, bonding *feeding experience* with baby number 4!"- Alyssa

"I personally had a wonderful breastfeeding experience with my daughter. I was very lucky, she latched on right away.

However, I was very unhappy with the hospitals lactation consultant. She actually seemed disappointed that I had an easy time nursing right after delivery. She even went so far as to 'order' my mother (who was in the delivery room with me) to hand back the baby to me when she was holding her. Not only did I find her rude and insensitive, I felt she completely overstepped her boundary as a 'consultant'.

My advice...do not be afraid to put your lactation consultant in her place if necessary." - Michelle

"Breastfeeding was a wonderful experience.

It went very much like I expected and I was one of lucky ones not to have many set backs. Of course my best companion was my breast pump to which I was attached every 3 hours for 11 months. That I believe was the hardest thing for me. After a while my life revolved around it. The Nursing Mother’s Companion by Kathleen Huggins, R.N., M.S. was my favorite book to read, and I referenced it before and throughout breastfeeding. I couldn’t have done without it! We have baby number two on the way and looking forward to doing it all again and hoping it goes the same way, if God willing." -Munch

babyourself.com • January 2011

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babyourself FITNESS

Article by Angel Feltman Photography by Elisabeth Nixon Photography

It’s a new year and we’re

all wondering how to stay healthy and fit during and after pregnancy. Let’s face it, getting in shape and staying that way is more fun when you’re working out with other mommies whose bodies are going through the same changes that your body is going through!

Baby Boot Camp is a stroller fitness workout for moms.

Their tagline? Bring your baby and get fit! The classes are led by certified, professional fitness instructors who instruct and modify all workouts for pregnant, postnatal and super fit moms. Nationwide there are over 100 locations. Their workouts combine stretching, cardio, strength training and core strengthening.

Kimberly is a mother of three (Chloe born September ‘06, Ezekiel born August ‘08 and Jedidiah born June ‘10). She is a graduate of Stetson University where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. She is an ACE-certified personal trainer and also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). Kimberly has a passion for exercise and loves to engage with other moms and help them achieve their fitness goals. Her hobbies include photography, surfing, volleyball and reading.

Here in Orlando, I spoke with Kimberly Kimmig who owns her own franchise of Baby Boot Camp. She currently offers classes in the Lake Mary/Sanford/Debary area. Your first class is always free with Baby Boot Camp and Kim assures all of her mommies that their workout will be challenging, life-changing, and fun. No membership required and the costs of individual classes are very reasonable - plus you have the added bonus of a personal trainer at all times!

Kim’s classes are currently on Monday mornings from 9:00-10:00am in the Seminole Towne Center Mall, Tuesday mornings from 9:00-10:00am at the Sanford Riverwalk in Downtown and Thursday mornings from 9:00-10:00am at Gemini Springs in Debary. Class locations are subject to change with the weather but Kim regularly updates the “Baby Boot Camp, Sanford, Lake Mary, Debary” Facebook page with any schedule changes.

How does weight gain affect you during your pregnancy?

Click on the Discussions tab and share with other mommas how weight gain or loss affects your feelings towards your pregnancy. www.facebook.com/babyourself

Whether you are newly pregnant, in your 2nd or 3rd trimester or trying to get your body back in shape after having your baby, Baby Boot Camp is a great way to get motivated to stay fit while you exercise with other mommies like yourself.

cont

...

babyourself FITNESS

The Intervals of B Baby Boot Camp If you have already had your baby, the things you need to bring are yourself & your baby, a good stroller (preferrably jogging but it’s not necessary), good running/walking shoes, WATER and an exercise mat. If you’re pregnant or within the six-week post partum period, Kim will personally modify your workout to be at a light and safe pace for you and your baby.

Stretching - Stretching at the beginning of a workout is

very important to help warm up your muscles before you begin to exercise. This helps prevent pulled muscles and leg cramps.

1 Cardio Drills - The cardio portion of the workout incorporates walking and jogging with your baby in the stroller, jumping jacks, yoga, pilates, and other aerobic exercises. If you are pregnant, your instructor will help you stay within a healthy heart rate zone for you and your baby.

2 Strength Training - The strength training portion consists of resistance bands, push-ups & squats. Kim provides resistance bands for her class participants.

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babyourself.com • January 2011

PHOTOS COURTESY EL ISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY

January 2011

Cool Down - During the cool down period, you will check your heart rate to make sure it is not above 100 beats per minute for more than 5 minutes.

5 Abdominal and Core Strengthening - This part of the workout helps you strengthen your core and get your flat tummy back. Please note that if you are still pregnant you may not participate in this part of the workout.

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babyourself FEATURED NURSERY Article by Elisabeth Myrick Photography by Elisabeth Nixon Photography

B

old, ageless and unique were the three words Meghan had in mind when planning her daughter’s nursery . . .

. . . no cartoons, pastels or typical baby stuff fit this first-time mom’s taste.

Reminicent of her own wedding, Meghan chose bold black and white prints with pink accents to fill two month old Rachel Zade’s room. However, as the space started to come together, the pink began to seem overwhelming. Meghan nixed her original plan for pink walls and instead chose a soothing celery green.

Finished off with unique, handmade accents using simple materials such as scrapbook paper, craft paint and stickers, Zadie’s room is ready to grow with her from a nursery to big girl room.

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January 2011

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1.

Keepsake frame, Long’s Christian bookstore.

2. Wall monogram, Back40Life.com. This is one of Meghan’s favorite elements in Zadie’s nursery. It was inexpensive, easy to apply, and the seller was great to work with, letting her personalize her font and color.

3. Black table and pink lamp from Marshall’s.

Cow humidifier from Target (other animal designs also available).

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4. Pillow from Little Miss Matched - available online at littlemissmatched.com. The crib bumper was made by Zadie’s grandmother look for a tutorial in the future!

5 & 6.

All bookcase items were gifts and many were handmade with scrapbooking supplies. The white keepsake box (#5, bottom shelf) holds Zadie’s hospital bands, baby shower cards and sonogram pictures from Meghan’s pregnancy.

7.

Funky hanging painting available from Hobby Lobby, now open in Orlando.

5&6

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babyourself TIPS FOR MOMMYHOOD

What’s in Your Bag?

Newborn Diaper Bag Essentials Ginormous diaper bag (with insulated bottle holder) Baby Bottle Formula Dispenser (with formula) Nursing Cover Burp Cloth Bib Water Bottle (for mom) Pacifier Diapers Wipes The “Don’t lay your baby on the nasty changing table” Pad Hand Sanitizer Change of Clothes Alcohol Swabs (umbilical cord care) Baby Toy Baby Blanket Little Toiletries Bag (see above inset)

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babyourself.com • January 2011

January 2011 Little Toiletries ‘Bag Within the Bag’

PHOTOS COURTESY EL ISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY PHOTO COURTESY EL ISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY

Our heads put together, we compiled the absolute essentials for our newborn diaper bags. There’s always room for a little more . . . but these are the things you don’t want to leave home without!

Hand Lotion (for mom) Hand Sanitizer Shout Wipes (for the inevitable) Infant Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer Infant Sunscreen Pacifier Alcohol Wipes

babyourself.com • January 2011

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Our Favorite Diaper Bags We have a few ABSOLUTE FAVORITES to share, because they’re just so fun & functional!

Gussy Sews $89

www.gussysews.com

Have fun at work with a Gussy / LoveFeast vacation tote bag! This large bag is perfect for the traveler, blogger or “woman on the go!”

Each bag also comes with a matching zipped pouch {store your computer/phone/camera cords, or other necessities}, and measures 6.5” x 9” x 2”.

Your bag also has 5 inside pockets! Three are made with the lining fabric (larger pockets) and two are made with the outside fabric (smaller pockets).

Daydreaming in Dresden

$86

www.petuniapicklebottom.com

Charcoal Brown/Rose/Lime whimsical floral medallion with Lime and Petal Pink hand embroidered detail. Rose water-resistant lining and Rose frame. * New and Improved wristlet strap that converts to shoulder strap * Diapers/wipes pocket *Large fold-out/snap-out, wipe-able changing pad *plus so much more

Siesta in Savilla

$146

www.petuniapicklebottom.com

Navy/Raspberry/Chartreuse blooming fleur-de-lis with Pink and Lime hand embroidered detail. Chartreuse water-resistant lining and Navy straps. *Double-headed zipper for easy opening *1 front pocket with magnetic closure *1 large back zippered pocket with removable changing pad *2 side zippered pockets for cell phone or iPod *plus so much more

Share your favorite diaper bags - and styles, too!

Click on the Discussions tab and share with other mommas who are shopping for diaper bags. www.facebook.com/babyourself

LOOKING AHEAD

PHOTO COURTESY a pea in the pod

2011 STYLES TO WATCH FOR

Trends for Spring feature cowl neck cropped and boxy burnout tee, and stretch denim cargo.

The slim cargo pant with zipper detail are also on the Spring 2011 radar.

babyourself.com • January 2011

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babyourself FASHION

Feminine Utility

combines pretty details and a distressed boyfriend jean look.

SPRING 2011 26

babyourself.com • January 2011

PHOTOS COURTESY a pea in the pod

January 2011

Inner Bliss ruched racer-back yoga tank and slim fit yoga pant are new to the Spring collection.

styles available this Spring from a pea in the pod

babyourself.com • January 2011

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Avocado

go anywhere, eat anywhere

Avocados are the most practical “go anywhere, eat anywhere� food. They do not need to be cooked, require no refrigeration, they come with their own carrying case and even have a builtin serving bowl! So next time you and your baby are on the go, drop an avocado and a spoon in your diaper bag and you are all set!

Like banana, the density of avocado flesh is filling and acts as a digestible slow-burning fuel, providing energy for growing children.

Avocados contain more potassium than bananas. Avocados have the highest protein content of any fruit.

Because of its high carbohydrates and protein content, mashed avocado is the perfect nourishing food for babies who are beginning to take solids.

On average, 53.5 million pounds of guacamole are eaten every Super Bowl Sunday, enough to cover a football field more than 20 feet thick.

Avocados help with morning sickness. The vitamin B6 helps relieve nausea and queasiness associated with pregnancy.

Tips and Tricks

Because of its high carbohydrates and protein content, mashed avocado is the perfect nourishing food for babies who are beginning to take solids.

The potassium content and calories of an avocado is three times that of a banana.

The handiest method for preparing an avocado is to cut the pear-shaped fruit in half length-wise with a sharp knife so that you cut in to and all around the pit; then rotate and pull the two halves apart. Remove the pit. With the knife, gently make a cross-hatch pattern throughout the halved fruit while the skin is attached, then use a spoon to separate the flesh from the shell by scooping the soft, ripe fruit gently.

The skin becomes the serving bowl.

How to prepare Sweet Potatoes

PHOTOS COURTESY EL ISABE TH NIXON PHOTOGR APHY

Baked sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a complex carbohydrate which means they digest more slowly than white potatoes and therefore will not cause your blood sugar to spike.

Sweet potatoes are virtually fat-free, cholesterol-free and very low in sodium. One cup (200 grams) of cooked sweet potatoes has 180 calories.

Just two thirds of a cup of sweet potatoes provides 100% of the USRDA for Vitamin E, without the unwanted fat.

Sweet potatoes provide many other essential nutrients including Vitamin B6, potassium and iron.

Sweet potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber which helps to promote a healthy digestive tract. Sweet potatoes have more fiber than oatmeal.

Before cooking, wash the sweet potatoes well.

Brush each potato with vegetable oil.

Preheat over to 400°F. Pierce the skin with a fork.

Place on oven rack and bake for 40-50 minutes until tender.

Remove from oven and prick with fork to release steam.

Microwaved sweet potatoes

Wash and pierce the sweet potatoes.

Place the potatoes on a paper towel in microwave oven.

Cook two sweet potatoes on high for 6-8 minutes.

More potatoes will obviously take longer.

Boiled sweet potatoes

Wash and pierce the sweet potatoes.

Place whole potatoes in a large pot.

Cover completely with water.

Boil approximately 30 minutes for 5 medium sweet potatoes.

sweet potato

One Of The World’s Healthiest Foods

babyourself

FOOD & NUTRITION

Taking the Guesswork Out of Making Your Own Baby Food

by Kim Daniels

Many new moms these days are interested in making their own baby food but aren’t sure how to do it or even where to begin. Here is a list of common questions and answers to help.

What foods should I feed my baby?

Apple, banana, avocado, and other ripe fruits are great first foods. Good first veggies are carrots, sweet potatoes, beets, and broccoli, preferably steamed. Well-cooked brown rice is a great food as your baby gets a bit older. Organic is best if it’s available!

What foods should I NOT feed my baby?

Honey should not be introduced until after your baby is a year old, because of the risk of botulism. Common allergens like strawberries, peanuts, cow’s milk, and shellfish should be delayed as well. Also, resist the temptation to let your baby try your soft drink, ice cream, or other sweets. These and other refined foods can ruin your baby’s enjoyment of more wholesome foods.

How should I prepare the baby food?

Peeled fruits, including avocado, can be easily pureed and served. Veggies should be steamed before pureeing. If the pureed food still seems too thick, you can add small amounts of water, formula, or breast milk until the right consistency is reached. Once your baby is six months old, you probably don’t need to add liquids to these foods.

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Should I use a food processor or a specialized food grinder?

I used a simple hand-crank baby food grinder. One reason for my preference is that only food that was ground finely enough could make it through the holes, so I knew that I would not accidentally feed chunks of food to my baby. Also, since the hand grinders don’t need electricity, you can easily take them anywhere. I used my grinder at ballgames, in restaurants, and at picnics.

You can find these simple food grinders at almost any store with baby supplies.

JANUARY 2011

What about those days when something comes up?

Life is rarely predictable, so have back-ups handy. When you are able, grind up extra food and fill up an ice cube tray with it.

Once frozen, the cubes can be stored in plastic bags in the freezer until you need them. I also always kept a few bottles of high quality, organic baby food on-hand for the really chaotic times.

It’s getting cold outside! Here’s the perfect bowl of soup to warm your taste buds!

Are there good resources that can give me more information?

Yes! There are several books about making your own baby food. Just look online or check out your local bookstore. Also there’s a great book called Eat This and Live for Kids that was written by two local doctors: Don Colbert, MD,. and Joseph Cannezzasro, MD.

South of the Border Turkey Soup (chase away the winter blahs soup)

6 Cups of turkey or chicken broth 2 Cups of chopped turkey 2 Cups of peeled 1 inch cubed sweet potatoes 2 Cups of diced zucchini in ½ pieces 1 ½ - 2 Cups of salsa 2 ears of corn on the cob Sour cream Cilantro chopped (optional) Avocado diced Lime cut into wedges

This great resource is about nutrition from pregnancy all the way through the growing years, with a section devoted to infant nutrition and even a Food Introduction Schedule to help you know what foods are best to introduce during the various stages of your child’s development.

Your pediatrician is also an excellent resource. Ask your baby’s doctor what Food Introduction Schedule she recommends.

In a 6 quart pan combine the turkey or chicken broth, turkey and sweet potatoes. Bring broth mixture to a boil and cook on medium heat. Cook about 5-10 minutes until the sweet potatoes begin to soften. Add the salsa and zucchini bring back to a gentle boil. Cook for another 5 minutes until the zucchini is done. Turn off the heat and cut the corn off the cob into the soup. Serve up the soup into bowls. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado and chopped cilantro. Squeeze a lime wedge into the soup just before eating. Serves 6 Vegetarian option Replace the turkey or chicken broth with vegetable broth Replace the turkey with 2 cans of white great northern beans Omit the sour cream this yummy recipe is from our foodie Vickie Myers

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babyourself ASKED

With every child it was different. With my first one key lime pie. mmmm The second one it was tuna and Arby’s roast beef sandwiches. It was very sad for me during with the third pregnancy I could not stand to drink or smell coffee. With the fourth one chocolate and coffee.

-Vickie M. sent in via facebook Ice cold water! Banana, peanut butter, and mayo sandwich!

-Anna P. sent in via facebook

What were your pregnancy cravings?

Peaches -Esther M. sent in via facebook With every baby I have craved milk dud’s like crazy, I could eat a whole box in one sitting!!!

And Wendy’s at 11:00 at night ;) -Alyssa B. sent in via facebook

Crushed ice and collard greens -Donna M. sent in via facebook Strawberry milk....the only time I ever wanted it was when I was pregnant! And CHEESEBURGERS....always craved cheeseburgers...greasier, the better!

-Melissa L. sent in via facebook With the first, it was chocolate; second, lemon; third, a lot of random things; fourth, garlic.

-Julie F. sent in via facebook

Slushies from 7-11...we called them “attitude adjusters”!

-Martha B. sent in via facebook Krispy Kreme donuts...I would pick up a bag of donut holes as I walked into Kroger, and shamelessly pay for my EMPTY bag on the way out!

-Nickole K. sent in via facebook

With my first definitely Mexican food salsa especially, with the second chocolate milk shakes with fries dipped in hot mustard sauce (can’t eat that now, yuck) -Nicki C. sent in via facebook

Food cravings may be your baby’s way of hinting at you. But craving chocolate doesn’t mean you should eat an entire bag of Hershey kisses. (Sorry!) A chocolate craving may mean that you are lacking magnesium. You can find magnesium in raw nuts and seeds, legumes, and fruit.

If you are incessantly chomping on ice, you may have an iron deficiency. Iron can be found in most meats- beef, fish, and poultry. Vegetarians, you can get iron in seaweed, greens, and black cherries.

There are many other cravings linked to specific deficiencies so be aware and pay attention to the signals your baby is sending you.

And if you can’t interpret your baby’s hints, ask a professional!

In Health, Dr. Erin L. Spaulding D.C.

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Try it for a few weeks!

407-678-0865 www.EcoDiaperService.com 32

babyourself.com • January 2011

In our March issue, we will be going GREEN, thinking GREEN, and promoting GREEN. Are you a GREEN business?

Do you sell ORGANIC goods?

Advertise in March’s issue to promote your GREEN company, product or service! email advertising@babyourself.com or download the media kit www.babyourself.com

miss last issue? ur next issue is free!

Just txt ur name & addy to 407.490.4075

What are you craving?

DARK CHOCOLATE, APPLE PIE, PRETZLES, CREAM CHEESE FROSTING, BABY DILL PICKLES. CHINESE FOOD AT 11:30 PM AND SPAGHETTI FOR BREAKFAST. OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES. YOUR GRANDMA’S HOMEMADE APPLESAUCE, AND SELF-SERVE ICECREAM. MUST-HAVES FOR THE PREGGO. W W W.BABYOURSELF.COM