Home Grown Issue 5 by HomeGrown Parenting in the North

HOME GROWN

Parenting in the North

Interview With Lyndsay Dupuis

November 2011 - Issue #5

Volume 1

Back to the Garden Alpacas

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Editors Notes

Meet The Writers

4-5

Bellies and Babies A C-Section Delivery

7-11

Double Check Car Winter Safety Kit

Living Green Nature’s Baby

14-17

Make Your Own Christmas Countdown Worm

Lady Of The House Christmas Giving

20-21

Interview Lyndsay Dupuis, Back to the Garden Alpacas’

23-27

Love And Learning Little Talker

28-29

Top Ten Ways to Warm Your Soul

30-31

Sew Simple Tooth Fairy Pillow

32-35

What Should We Do Today Freedom

36-37

Food For Thought The Cafeteria Line

38-39

Recipe of the Month Spanish Eggs Benedict

NEW

Natures Recipe

Hello Word Live Broadcast Birth

Birth Tales

44-45

From Our Fans

Announcements

November Calendar

Editors Notes Snuggle up. By Kayleigh May

Winter is around the corner, we are all getting a little colder and spending more time snuggling with our loved ones. I would like to start of by Congratulating Chantal and her husband Jason on their new arrival. A beautiful baby boy born on October 27th 2011. See his birth announcement at the end of the magazine. Our writing staff has been working hard to provide you with a local parenting magazine, we invite all of our readers to submit ideas and stories to us.

Kayleigh May, As a Photographer, Mother, Wife, and the Editor of Homegrown- Parenting in the North. Kayleigh has many hobbies that include sewing, writing, photography and running after her two young boys.

Editor in Chief : Kayleigh May De Cecco Editor: Chantal Warren

Writers Top Ten - Christine South Christine.homegrown@gmail.com Lady of the House - Julie-Anne Mauno Julieanne.homegrown@gmail.com Living Green - Chantal Warren Chantal.homegrown@gmail.com Recipe of the Month - Diane Rochefort dchetimmins@gmail.com

Love And Learning - Tessa Morrissette Tessa.homegrown@gmail.com Child Care - Natalie Cloutier natcloutier.homegrown@gmail.com Sew Cool -Pamela Pilon pamelapilon.homegrown@gmail.com Bellies and Babies - Kayleigh May De Cecco Kayleighmay.homegrown@gmail.com

Interested in writing? Here at Home Grown we are always looking for Writers. If you have an interesting topic that you think would benefit the magazine please e-mail either Kayleigh May or Chantal and we will be happy to review your idea. 3

Meet

Our

Chantal is an eco-conscious entrepreneur who splits her time between being a mom

to two and operating a natural baby boutique in the City of Timmins. Her desires to live a more natural life have provided her the knowledge, experience and contacts to

reduce her family’s carbon footprint on the planet.

Chantal Warren Assistant Editor

Julie-Anne is a stay-at-home mom to six beautiful children in rural Northern Ontario. Her adventures include large family mothering, homeschooling, and rural living. As an experienced childbirth educator and doula, she desires to encourage other mothers, especially through the childbearing years. She also writes at www.fruitfulvines.blogspot.com.

Julie-Anne Mauno

Christine South is a married mother of 4 beautiful children. She is a qualiﬁed teacher and works occasionally with the NCDSB in Timmins. She spends most of her time with her family, enjoying the roller coaster ride of being a mother. Her husband works out of town as a Mechanic 4 weeks at a time, so she holds down the fort at home, juggling a 9 year old, a 5

Christine South

year old, a 2 year old and a newborn. If there's one thing this lady is good at it's multitasking!

Natalie is a stay at home mother of three beautiful little girls. She runs an in-

home private daycare and has done so for the last 6 years. Working with children

has taught her many things but the best is to watch the children she cares for and

her own become loving, respectful, independent and ready to take on the world, one

grade at a time. She enjoys the outdoors, singing and of course, spending time with her family.

Natalie Cloutier

Writers ! Pamela is a mom of one who juggles her work as a Graphic Designer with

her hobby as a seamstress. Â She is the face behind Bibmababy - an

online boutique that brings chic, funky and unique styles to babies and toddlers.

Pamela Pilon

No Photo Diane attended Canadore college and participated in the culinary management program, She is a young mother for aÂ pie-in-the-skyÂ 3 year old girl.

Diane Rochefort

Tessa is the mom of a beautiful 2 and half-year-old boy and is expecting her

second baby in January. She has a background in Early Childhood Education and Child Development with a specialty for children with special needs. Her greatest joy

is raising her son and spending time with her family and looks forward to the many

rewards and challenges her expanding family with bring to her life.

Tessa Morrissette

Bellies And Babies A C-Section Birth

By: Kayleigh May

C-sections are getting a lot of publicity lately and with it we’ve seen a rise in the All things that grow% percentage of c-sections being performed in Canada. In recent statistics, Canada is Photography( seen to have almost 25% of women receiving a c-section to birth their babies. These statistics are not as frightening as they should be to most women. In the U.S., the statistics are closer to 1 in every 3 women receiving a c-section, however in the U.S. women have the ability to elect a c-section instead of having a natural birth. They call it Designer Birth, what a wonderful name for such an un-wonderful procedure. As you may know, many of the stars have done it, such as Victoria Beckham “To Posh to push” and Britney Spears. If you do end up requiring a c-section, here is some information that may help you prepare for every situation. Please talk to your doctor about all the concerns that you may have. C-Section Prevention Before Labour: Getting a breech baby to turn is easier than it sounds for some; here are two natural, proven methods to get your little peanut to do the 180: • Pelvic Tilts are common and most women know about these, these are more effective when done on the stairs (use the lower stairs and have your partner help you) • Moxibustion is a form of acupuncture. By lighting a moxi stick and holding it to your baby toe, this causes your uterus to contract helping baby turn. Here are some reasons that you will or may need a c-section: Hard Indicators. These are indicators that a C-Section is most likely unavoidable. 1. Health Problems of the mother including but not limited to: • Severe Toxemia, • Uncontrollable Diabetes • Heart Condition • Back/Hip Problems 2. Placenta Previa or Placenta Abruption 3. Prolapsed Cord 4. Transverse Position 5. Active genital herpes and/or HIV/AIDS Soft Indicators. These are indicators that a c-section may be ordered, but not necessarily needed. 1. Repeat C-Section - This is the #1 reason for c-sections, however in most cases you do not need a repeat c-section. 2. Failure to progress 3. Cephalopelvic Disproportion 4. Fetal Distress 5. Breech Baby

Preparing for a C-Section There are many reasons that you could know that you are going to have a c-section. What you need to understand when going in for a c-section is that it is a major abdominal surgery. It is not to be taken lightly. You will need more emotional and physical support than a woman who is having a natural birth. WHAT TO PACK IN THAT BAG. When you go in for a c-section you are required to stay anywhere from 3-5 days, therefore you will need a lot more in your suitcase. Also, different hospitals have different rules, some will have an area for your husband/partner/support person to stay the night, while others do not allow anyone to stay past visiting hours. If your hospital does allow for a support person to stay the night, then remember to pack some extras for them too. For Yourself: •

Lots of underwear - Look for the granny panties that are tight and come right up to your rib cage with a good hold. This will hold your stomach in place after the c-section and will help you feel a little more mobile. This is not the time for those sexy little panties.

•

Clothing - Choose clothing that is loose in the waist. Pack a few of your husband’s shirts and sweatpants. Your incision will likely bleed for a few days, so pack things that you don’t mind getting stained.

•

Books - Bring something that you will enjoy reading while baby sleeps. Even though you may not find the time to read, having the option is comfort enough.

http://www.sears.ca/catalog/women-lingerie/11360

•

Nursing Bras & Breast Pads - Bring a few. Who knows when your milk will come in, and you don’t have a washing machine to wash the ones you have. Get inexpensive sleeping nursing bras at Walmart, these are great for the first few days and slide aside easily. Pack half a box of breast pads.

•

Slippers and Bath Robe - Bring a cozy robe and a comfortable pair of slippers that slip on and off quickly.

•

A nice going home Outfit - Pack something nice but comfortable. Remember baggy is key.

Recovery Everyone recovers differently; some may take a few weeks, while others may take a few months. Have your partner do research and find ways that they can help you recover. Recovery with a c-section is more difficult than a natural birth by far, but there are so many things that you can do to make your recovery easier. •

Hire A Postpartum Doula. A postpartum doula will help you with your little daily routines, you need to discuss with her what she is willing and not willing to do to help you after your baby is born. Some postpartum Doulas will cook meals, tidy house, help you with breastfeeding and run errands for you.

•

Deal With Your Pain. Take the pain medications that the nurses give you, usually Tylenol 3’s. Remember to keep up with the dosage that the doctor has prescribed so that you will be taking them before the pain comes back. You will not win an award for not taking the pain medications, there is a time and place for medication and this is it. Being a new mom with all the hormones and emotional changed is hard enough, there is no need to have to deal with unnecessary pain.

•

Stool Softeners And Fibre. Back in the day, you could not leave the hospital until you had had your first bowel movement. Now most hospitals will let you leave sooner. Most women admit to holding in that bowel movement because they are afraid to push, afraid that their incision will come apart, or simply because it hurts too much. Your incision will not come apart.

•

Let That Gas Go! This really is a big one, as a lot of the pain you get when you are in recovery is from gas from the air that got trapped inside you. This gas will come out, and it really can hurt when trapped inside. Don’t be afraid of farting either.

•

Drink Lots Of Water.

•

Light Exercise. Such as walking and even lifting your own baby. Don’t try to get rid of your “baby weight” right away, it’s not worth tearing or hurting yourself; the weight will come off when it’s good and ready.

•

Breastfeed. Breastfeeding has many great benefits, not only for your baby but also for you. When your baby nurses, it helps shrink your uterus, it also helps you lose that “baby weight”. Unlike a mother who has given birth vaginally, you will not be able to do as much with yourself to lose the weight, so breastfeeding can be even more beneficial for you.

•

Eat Yogurt And Take Probiotics. When you have a c-section you are given antibiotics, this may make you more susceptible to a yeast infection in you, and thrush and a yeast infection in your baby. Getting your daily dose of probiotics will help prevent the over growth of the candida bacteria in your and your baby’s system. Also, ask your local pharmacy or naturopath about probiotics for your baby.

•

Sleep. We’ve all heard ‘sleep when baby is sleeping’, however when you have had a c-section, the pain may be too much to handle sleep. Use pillows to prop you to an incline to help you sleep. Also, ask for help to get baby to you when it is time to feed. Every time you get up to retrieve baby yourself, you’re causing pain and making it harder to fall back to sleep.

If you have had a c-section, your risk of postpartum depression is higher. Please review symptom of postpartum depression with your partner after the baby is born. Ask your partner to get you help if you display any of the symptoms. Now that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had a c-section will you have to have another? Studies are proving that VBAC (Vaginal birth after Cesarian Section) may be a better option. Watch for next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s article featuring VBAC Births.

https://secure.cihi.ca/estore/productFamily.htm?locale=en&pf=PFC1656

http://bill131.ca/2011/02/28/one-in-four-babies-born-by-caesarean-section/ www.csectionrecovery.com

Childbirth Resourses

Books

Websites

Husband-Coached Childbirth - Robert www.inamay.com A. Bradley, MD http://www.mybestbirth.com

Other

The Business of Being Born

Natural Childbirth the Bradley速 Way - http://spinningbabies.com/ Susan McCutcheon http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/ Active Birth The New Approach to Giving Birth Naturally - Janet Balaskas

http://www.choicesinchildbirth.org/ choices/birth/labor

Your Best Birth- Rikki Lake and Abby Epstein

Print out ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Double Check ! By: Chantal Warren

Ahh November! The beginning of a true northern winter. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no denying the arrival of old man winter. Soon, the air will be filled with the sound of snow crunching underfoot. Out come the warm sweaters and turtlenecks as well as the winter tires on any experienced northern driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vehicle. Snow tires really are a necessity for our long cold winters; but what else should you ensure you stock in your vehicle to make winter travelling safer? Heaven forbid you end up in an accident or worse yet, stranded at night out of cell range, you want to make sure you are prepared. Here is a list of winter trunk must-haves for every northern vehicle.

Jumper cables and basic tool kit

Snacks for good measure

Flashlight

Small folding shovel

Phone & car charger

Bag of sand, kitty litter or rock salt

Phone number for a local towing company

Ice scraper

Extra boots and gloves

Lock de-icer

Warm blanket or space blanket

First aid kit

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Photograph By All Things That Grow Photography

Living Green: Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baby By: Chantal Warren

Babies have such tiny little feet, so one would assume that their carbon footprint would be minimal. However, babies can accumulate a lot of stuff before they are even born. So, how can you help reduce that little oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s footprint and help make their world a little greener when they make their muchanticipated appearance? You may be surprised to know, it can start as early as pregnancy.

Living Green: Nature’s Baby By: Chantal Warren

Parabens can be listed as methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben, so make sure you check the ingredients lists on your products prior to purchasing them.

The day most women find out they are expecting, they usually end up making some life changes, eating healthier and changing some of their health habits. Sacrificing the morning coffee for a glass of folaterich orange juice and ensuring that you are getting all your vitamins are a few changes quickly adopted. Eating healthy takes center stage. Increasing your intake of whole, organic and fresh foods will give your little bundle the best start in life as well as reduce the resources required to produce processed foods. Great first step momma! Other things to consider are the health and beauty products that you use on your body. Products slathered on your skin are absorbed into your blood system and introduced to baby while in utero. This is a great time to try to increase the natural and organic products that you use. Some great Canadian made products to try are Green Beaver, Delish Naturals, Vada, Simply Suds and The Soap Works. All are readily available locally or online. Whether or not you choose to go completely organic and natural, one of the things you should really consider cutting out of your bath and beauty products are parabens. Parabens are used as a preservative and mimic other hormones and disrupt your body’s natural functions. This disruption has been linked to breast cancer, early onset puberty and reproductive issues.

Before baby is born, when the urge to nest is at its highest, there are some great ways to prepare for baby while keeping the planet in mind. One of the most important things to consider is the type of paint you use while decorating your little one’s first room. Just as important as selecting the right colour, is selecting a paint that is either low VOC or VOCFree. Typical paint can contain up to 10,000 different chemicals, many of which are known toxins. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are the most harmful. They dissipate into the air and cause ozone air pollution as well as a host of harmful health issues. Some great brands that are healthy for you, baby and the planet are the ‘Aura’ or ‘ben’ lines by Benjamin Moore, ‘Harmony’ by Sherwin-Williams and ‘Brilliance’ by Glidden. Photography by All Things That Grow Photography

Living Green: Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baby By: Chantal Warren

When planning the perfect room, another thing to consider is the furniture that your baby will be surrounded by. The most economical and ecoconscious option is to select furniture that will grow with your child. Selecting a crib that eventually turns into a double bed and choosing a dresser that doubles as a change table are perfect examples. Choose furniture that you can incorporate into your home after you no longer need it in the nursery. Another great option is to look for second hand furniture, just ensure that you keep in mind any product recalls before bringing home any great thrift store finds. When shopping for these staple furniture pieces, you are better off to select solid wood furniture, preferably made from renewable resources, as they will last much longer. Also, solid wood furniture do not require chemicals to be constructed and will not emit gases, such as formaldehyde, into the atmosphere like you will find in cheaper particle board (MDF) furniture. As for your layette, selecting natural, organic fibres made from renewable resources is your best option for creating a sustainable nursery. Everything from fitted crib sheets to bath cloths are readily available both locally and online at reasonable prices. The most eco-conscious option for dressing your little prince or princess is to purchase gently used second hand clothes from thrift stores, consignment shops or from friends who have recently had babies. You are reducing the amount of resources required to make new clothes when there are mountains of barely-used baby clothes begging to be worn again. If you want to continue the natural fibre trend, you can find a cute array of organic cotton, bamboo and hemp clothing from companies such as Westcoast Baby, Finn & Emma and Dwell Studio. Ensuring you are introducing the most natural and healthy foods and products to your child while in utero is one of the best gifts you can give your unborn child.

Another gift is to provide them the opportunity to have the most natural birth available to you. Selecting a birth plan that ensures that your health, both physical and mental, are kept in priority is of utmost importance, but when possible, there are a lot of things you can do to have a eco-friendly birth. As your third trimester comes to a close, the most natural and earth conscious delivery option available is to have a home birth. If this option is available to you, you have the ability to control everything from the organic sheets on your bed to the temperature of the room. Now it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a natural birth in a hospital. You can make any requests you like while in a hospital, such as diming the lights and not using monitors when possible. Establishing a written birth plan that is in line with your eco-conscious beliefs is important to helping you have the type of birth that you are hoping for. Just as important as having a birth plan, is sharing this plan with your spouse and birth team. Let your OB, midwife and/or doula know what your wishes are and make sure that they support you in your choices. Wanting to have a natural and organic pregnancy does not mean that you should not have drugs or a csection if you feel that you require it to ensure you maintain your physical and mental health. The best thing you can do for your baby is be there when they need you, so do what is best for you and baby first and the planet second.

Photography by All Things That Grow Photography

Living Green:

Nature’s Baby By: Chantal Warren

Have a Carbon Neutral Delivery When having a baby in a hospital, your ability to reduce your emissions is somewhat out of your control, so why not check into these Canadian Carbon Offset Companies: Less, www.less.ca - Renewable energy Planetair, www.planetair.ca - Renewable energy, fuel switching, energy efficiency, methane capture CarbonZero, www.carbonzero.ca - Energy efficiency, renewable energy LivClean, www.livclean.ca - Renewable energy, fuel switching, methane capture Another great option is to plant a tree yourself and watch it grow along with your little one.

Once baby is born, the importance of ensuring that you are getting all your vitamins and eating healthy doesn’t end, especially if you are breastfeeding. Maintaining your nutrition with good quality, natural food is just as important now as it was while baby was growing inside you. When it comes to feeding your child, breast milk is the healthiest and most ecological option available. A healthy baby should not require anything other than mother’s milk for the first 6 months of their little lives; that means 6 months of no food packages, containers or boxes to throw away. If you are unable to breastfeed or pump for whatever reason, check out some of the organic brands of baby formula now available in grocery stores and online. Certified organic products are made without harmful pesticides, antibiotics, or growth hormones, so better for baby and the planet. As baby graduates to purees and solids, consider making your own baby food. It is not only the greenest option, it is also the healthiest, cheapest and believe it or not, it’s easy to do. The best way to know how healthy your child’s food is, is to make it yourself; all you need is a blender and ice cube trays. There are tonnes of different ways to go green with baby. It may take a little extra forethought to green up their little world, but know, you are making strides to preserve the planet for the future of this little bundle of joy. Photography by All Things That Grow Photography

Other Resources: Books: Raising Baby Green, Alan Greene, M.D. It’s Easy Being Green: A Handbook for Earth-Friendly Living, Crissy Trask The Complete Organic Pregnancy, Deirdre Dolan & Alexandra Zissu Websites: Healthy Child, Healthy World, www.healthychild.org Consumer Reports, www.greenerchoices.org, www.ecolabels.org Kiwi: Growing Families the Natural and Organic Way, www.kiwimagonline.com The Green Guide, www.thegreenguide.com The Eco-Friendly Family, www.theecofriendlyfamily.com Local Stores: Sweet Face, Schumacher Little Lamb, Timmins Growing Up Green, North Bay Bush Babies, North Bay

Should have used a bib.

Available online and at Sweet Face

www.bibmababy.com use code

HOMEGROWN

for 10% off

Tools Needed:

Print out

Make your Own: Countdown Worm

• • • • • • •

Construction Paper Scissors Glue Tape String Stickers Two different sized cups

1.Use the smaller cup to draw 8 circles of three different colours for a total of 24 circles. 2.Use the larger cup to make one large circle. 3.Decorate the large circle to your liking. 4.Tape circles onto the wall with wall friendly tape. 5.You now have a 24 day countdown to christmas. 19

Lady of the House Christmas Giving By Julie-Anne Mauno

Living on a single income can mean stretching your dollars as far as they can go. As the holidays approach, it becomes even more important to be creative with your spending as extra expenses can pile up. I will admit I came to dread this time of year. I just hated the financial pressure that this season put us under. It often felt like we spent all winter catching up on holiday spending! I still feel the crunch this time of year but I am learning not to hold on too tightly to every dollar. I’m not talking about being careless with my budget. But, the only thing that makes this season worthwhile for me is sharing and giving. It’s the season for giving after all. There are so many needs around us. Your neighbourhood is a good place to start. There are food bank drives, toy drives and Christmas basket projects. I used to love participating in the Christmas Tree toy drives where you could choose a tag with the gender and age of a child in need. It was so much fun shopping for these little ones and imagining their reaction as they unwrapped our gift. Last year I helped my daughter host an Operation Christmas Child shoebox party. We invited friends and asked them to bring items for the shoeboxes. Girls brought dolls, shoes, clothing, soap, stickers etc. They had a blast carefully filling each box with special items. Even though we hosted the party near the end of October, we enjoyed serving Christmas cookies and playing Christmas music. It was one of the most special things we’ve ever done! At the end of the day, we had packed 30 boxes! We took a picture of the girls with their boxes and included a print of that photo in each box with a special message. My daughter has been saving up all year again for this special event that has already become an annual tradition in our home. This year, we hope to fill at least 40 boxes. Because the children ask mostly for shoes, a t-shirt and school supplies, our aim is to include all of those items in each box. Even an inexpensive pair of flip-flops can give a child in a warm climate much needed protection from cuts and scrapes on the soles of their feet. 20

Lady of the House Apple Pies, Turkey, And Affording to Stay Home. By Julie-Anne Mauno

I have been so inspired by my daughter’s passion for helping others. Doing things like filling shoeboxes for children has filled the holidays with a special joy and excitement. Even when your dollars are stretched, it is worth it to cultivate a generous heart and a hand that loves to give more than receive. Here are some more ideas of things you can do to bless others during this special season. •

Bake cookies for a lonely neighbour.

•

Donate food and toys to local organizations.

•

Make a “love basket” to encourage a senior or a friend. Fill it with goodies like chocolate, a scented candle, an inspiring book, a special bath product.

•

Send out cards to people in need of friendship. Include a personal note.

•

Invite a family in need to your Christmas dinner.

For more information on Operation Christmas Child (including deadlines and drop-off locations near you), go to http://www.samaritanspurse.ca/Operation-Christmas-Child/default.aspx.

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Lyndsay Rosalia Dupuis

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Interview Questions by: Chantal Warren 23 All Photography By: Kayleigh May of All Things That Grow Photography

Lyndsay Dupuis

Interview Questions by: Chantal Warren All Photography By: Kayleigh May of All Things That Grow Photography

Back to the Garden Alpacas Home Town: Callander. ON

What brought you to the area? I started working in the North nearly 15 years ago, in various forestry jobs. In 2004, Ian and I decided we wanted to continue living here, so we began looking for farm properties. We bought our 140 acre farm in the summer with plans to one day raise alpacas and other livestock. A few years later we had our first child…. Then another…. then started adding animals! And we’re still happy to be here. What is your favourite thing about living in the North? My favourite aspect of living in the North has always been experiencing the outdoors- the seasons, the wildlife, the Northern Lights, even the snow and cold! We are fortunate to have a large property with plenty of privacy, but also lucky to have great neighbours who have become good friends. When you live in Northern Ontario, neighbours and community are important. I also love the life my kids are able to enjoy here- running free outdoors, knowing which direction the geese are flying, collecting eggs every day, participating with chores. Work: What is your day job? I am a mother first and foremost, but also a full time farmer. We have at least 50 various animals, do our own haying in the summer and have a large garden which grows a significant portion of our food. I have recently begun getting back into teaching since my youngest began school this year. What made you choose farming? We wanted our children to grow up around animals, to have chores and understand what it means to work hard and with neighbours to get the job done. Our children (age 4 and 5) have been planting seeds in the spring, picking veggies and berries in the summer, witnessing births and helping with chores since they were less than a year old. We believe that learning the value of work, developing empathy for their animals and understanding responsibilities are all skills that will help them succeed in whatever they chose to do. Ian and I first explored the idea of raising alpacas years before we bought our farm. He’d grown up on a working farm, so we joked that one day we’d get some alpacas. Over the years, we visited many alpaca farms and the more we saw, the more we realized that they really were an ideal animal to raise in the North.

Lyndsay Dupuis Back to the Garden Alpacas Did you ever see yourself doing this kind of work? No! But now I can’t see doing it any other way. What kind of animals do you have on your farm? We have 25 alpacas, laying hens, turkeys, bunnies, dogs and children. Coming this spring we will start keeping bees; Ian’s family members have been keeping bees a long time, so we’re lucky to have them tell us about their trails and errors! Why Alpaca? Most importantly, alpacas are extremely safe for the children to be around. We don’t have to worry they will be kicked, as with a horse, or stepped on by a cow. Our children and their friends are free to play in the pastures with the alpacas and sometimes they even hang out in the backyard together! They are also very easy to keep, they eat less than most livestock (one acre of pasture can provide for about 6 alpacas), they are very clean and best of all, their fleece products earn enough to pay for their yearly upkeep (and more!). Having one of the warmest fibres in the world, they are well suited to the North. Alpaca farms are growing in the Norththere are now 5 in the area and several in New Liskeard. What are some of the benefits of alpaca products? Alpaca fibre is naturally thermal. The fibres have a hollow core, which makes it 6 times warmer and lighter than sheep’s wool. Alpaca is hypoallergenic; since it has no lanolin, most people who are allergic to sheep’s wool can comfortably wear alpaca. It is also moisture wicking, which helps keep hands and feet dry and therefore odour-free! It has a luxurious, silky soft feel and is referred to as “Fibre of the Gods”, as it used to be reserved for Incan royalty 6000 years ago. Here in Canada Alpacas are raised for their fleece rather than meat, which appeals to many people. It is an “eco-friendly” choice, a sustainable way of farming. What are some of the products that you make from your animals? We sell thermal alpaca socks and yarn (doesn’t everyone with alpacas?!), which are the most popular items. We have thermal alpaca mitts, gloves, hats, insoles/boot liners, and duvets. I have been experimenting with various forms of textile art, currently luxurious, original 100% silk-alpaca scarves. Our newest item is a wonderful heirloom wooden alpaca pull-toy, handmade by Maurus Forest Toy Company from cherry and walnut. Where are your products available for customers to buy? Our products are always available at our farm store, at the Timmins Museum Gift Shop, and Albert’s Workwear in Timmins. We will also be at several upcoming Christmas events: McIntyre Arena Craft Sale Nov 11-12-13, Timmins Museum Art Show Nov 25-26 and Girls Night Out at the Lion’s Club in Iroquois Falls Friday Dec 2nd.

Lyndsay Dupuis Back to the Garden Alpacas What is your favourite thing about the work you do? My favourite part about the work I do is the satisfaction I get from raising healthy, happy animals and children. It is amazing to witness children and animals interact and I feel very fortunate to be able to do what I do. It is work that involves the whole family, a group effort. What is something that people usually misunderstand about farming? I think a common misunderstanding about farming is that it is hard to do. It is really a way of life. It does require work, but the work keeps you outside and active. A common misconception about alpacas is that since they are ‘exotic’ they are expensive. You can now buy alpacas from a few hundred dollars to a thousand, whereas they used to cost tens of thousands. They certainly cost less than a dog to keep! Another misunderstanding is that you need a large piece of land. It is possible to keep several alpacas on just an acre of land or chickens in a small backyard. A garden is possible in a city backyard. Any of these activities can involve your children and teach them immeasurable things about life. And if you can’t do these things, then bring your children to visit a farm! Family: How do your children feel about growing All up on a farm? They LOVE it! I believe they know they are things that grow% fortunate and even as young as they are, you wouldPhotography( be amazed at what they are able to do! They are able to run free without us hovering over them. I recently heard the term “Helicopter Parents” and I’m glad we don’t have to constantly fret over their safety. After returning home from a family trip last year, my daughter said, “New Orleans was fun, Mom, but you know what? There wasn’t one speck of grass, not one speck!” She was 4 at the time. What do your kids think about having so many animals around? My children like to be involved in all the activities with the animals, from feeding to shovelling manure. The first thing they do when they arrive home from school is run out to gather the eggs. They want to be able to walk their own alpacas, without me holding the lead! What benefits do you think your kids get from growing up on a farm? There are many benefits growing up on a farm or in the country. Just being outside all the time and being active benefits their health and imagination. My daughter still won’t sit to watch a movie on TV, she will ask to go back outside! It also gives them confidence, since they have the freedom to try new things. They get to plant their own seeds and watch how they grow (they have their own rows in the garden). They have witnessed alpacas being born. They have understood what it means to lose an animal. They understand there is a life cycle and to respect even the smallest creature. We also like the fact that they learn that the family has to work together to get wood split and piled for winter, the hay cut and baled for our animals, the food harvested. Teamwork and responsibility are extremely important skills for children to learn. Any more kids in your future? Maybe if we stop getting animals!

Lyndsay Dupuis Back to the Garden Alpacas Other: If you could meet any person, past or present, who would it be and why? I always joked that one day I would meet Neil Young! Who inspires you? Why? Working mothers. Even though I work full time at the farm, I am still Home all day and it is hard enough to stay caught up. I respect all the mothers who have full time jobs and still manage to put dinner on the table for their family. Have you read any good books lately that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d recommend? Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingslover. I have been reading it every Feb/March for the past several years to get myself motivated and inspired for spring planting.

Love And Learning Little Talker

By: Tessa Morrissette

While we are raising our babies we find ourselves singing and talking our way through the day. Feel like a broken record? We do these things without noticing or maybe without valuing the importance of these seemingly basic actions. All that chatter is definitely not going to waste momma!

A baby’s first exposure to language happens from the moment they are handed to their parents. Their language emerges as a series of steps; first, they coo and babble, then they practice making single sounds. As they continue on the path of language development, they begin to form single words. A toddler begins to string those single words together and the next thing you know, you’re chatting it up with this special little person who suddenly seems to have a lot on their minds!

The growth and development of our little talkers is a momentous time and there is so much that we can offer them to encourage and expand their communication. Try to keep in mind these tips as you are chatting away your day:

 SAY JUST A LITTLE: Use short simple sentences, this won’t overwhelm your child and will allow them to follow along in the conversation.  EMPHASIZE: Make the important words stand out, helping your child to understand and learn them.  SLOW DOWN: When you talk to allow your child time to understand what you are saying and give them chance to try saying it themselves.  DEMONSTRATE: Make sure your child can see what you are talking about by pointing to it, adding gestures or actions to your words, or showing him/her a picture

Love And Learning Little Talker By: Tessa Morrissette

Enjoy what your little one has to say and look forward to the conversations that lie ahead. Language is the portal to all your child’s thoughts and wonder. What they have to say is sure to amaze and likely surprise you!

Other language boosting activities:

 Teach your baby to imitate your actions, like clapping your hands or blowing a kiss.  Read to your child everyday. Choose books that have large colourful pictures. Describe the pictures and ask questions like “What’s this?” or “What does a puppy say?”  Read or say nursery rhymes to your child so they can hear the rhythm and flow of our language.  Expand their thoughts by repeating what they have said and adding a word or two.  Make your own storybook filled with photos of family members and encourage your child to name and point to familiar objects or people.  Play eye spy, this exposes your child to new words.

Top Ten:

Activities to Warm Your Soul By Christine South

10. Take a Gander at a Sleeping Baby – Whenever I’ve had a challenging day, I love to go in after my kids are asleep and just watch them for a few minutes. They are so innocent and peaceful. It brings such warmth and love to my heart knowing that they are safe, loved and growing well. I’m sure I share this practice with many parents. It’s a feel good moment that can’t compare to anything else. 9. Write a Love Letter – Taking a few minutes to remember why you really love someone can be quite an experience. Writing it down and sharing it with that person can make you both feel really good. It can be for your husband, boyfriend, mother, father, sibling, child or even a friend. Sharing your feelings with others opens your soul to receive more love and just make you feel really good.

6. Delve into some Apple Crisp – Warm up a small bowl of apple crisp, add a swirl of caramel, a dollop of whip cream and get ready to taste a small bit of heaven. There’s something about cinnamon, oats and warm apples that brings you back to your childhood and make you feel warm all over. There’s only one thing better than this bowl of happiness: sharing it with a friend.

8. Wear some Knitted Mittens or a Scarf – Slipping on a pair of knitted mittens, or wrapping yourself in a nice knitted scarf is an easy way to make you feel warmer and bring an instant smile to your face. There’s something about these homemade items that just ooze comfort. 7. Cover yourself in a Heated Blanket – There’s nothing like heat on a cool fall day. Whether it’s on the couch while watching tv or as you slip into bed after a long day, the warmth radiating from a heated blanket will instantly make your eyes close and your body relax. Heated blankets pleasantly induce an escape from reality and will ease you nicely into sweet dreams.

5. Curl up with a Good Book – Sometimes an escape from reality is just what we need. Grab a book or a magazine and spend 15 minutes (or more) reading. It’s amazing what this little escape can do for us. A little ME time is always good and can help you to stay more focused during the day and give you something to look forward to in the evening when the chaos of life dies down. Couple with #7 and #4, and you will have a recipe for the ultimate relaxation time.

Top Ten:

Activities to Warm Your Soul By Christine South

4. Treat yourself to some Hot Chocolate: White or Dark – There’s no need to feel guilty about this sinful treat that is more “treat” than it is “sin”. This creamy cup of deliciousness is a must have on those cool fall evenings. Curl up on your outdoor swing with an oversized sweater and a mug full of your favourite type of hot chocolate, look around at all the beautiful colours and let your soul be warmed. 3. Make some Hearty Vegetable Soup – I think it’s all the colours in this amazing soup that make it the perfect meal for this time of year. The mix of green peas, yellow beans, orange carrots, white potatoes (and more!) mixed into the thick, rich broth, that make it a must have during this season. Easy to make and great for leftovers, share this soup with those you love and watch them enjoy this taste of fall.

2. Take a Bubble Bath – Soak your tired body in a sea of scented bubbles and wash your worries away! Try experimenting with different scents to see how they make you feel. A lavender chamomile vanilla will help you feel relax and feel sleepy; Jasmine and rose for a more romantic feel; or eucalyptus and peppermint for those days where you are feeling a little ill. Bubble baths are easily the best way to practice aromatherapy and heal both the body and soul at the same time. 1. Do Something Nice for a Someone Else – Sometimes a nice message on Facebook or a quick phone call to say hello is just what the doctor ordered. Think of something nice that someone has done for you, and then do that for someone else. Simple as putting a sticky note that says “I LOVE YOU” in your son’s lunchbox, or writing “YOU’RE AMAZING” in lipstick on your daughter’s bedroom mirror. Doing something nice for someone else always comes back to you, makes you feel really good inside and will get your day going in the right direction.

Sew Simply by Pamela Pilon

The

Tooth Fairy Pillow

Turn losing your first tooth into an extra special event by making your little one their very own, custom designed Tooth Fairy Pillow! Let them choose the material and stuff the pillow themselves! PREPARATION TIME Approximately 1 hour WHAT YOU NEED • Printer to print out the Pillow Pattern • ½ meter for tooth (quilter’s cotton or light canvas)) • 5 inches x 5 inches for pocket (quilter’s cotton) • 5 inches of bias tape • Batting • Fabric pencil • Ruler • Rotary cutter and mat or scissors • Sewing machine, needle and coordinating thread

CUTTING YOUR MATERIAL Exterior Print - Cut 2 of the pillow patterns Pocket - Cut 1 pocket - Cut 1 strip of bias tape, the same width as the pocket

Sew Simply by Pamela Pilon Print out

nse Leave u

Pocket Cut 1

Grain

Pillow Cut 2

Tooth Fairy

Pillow Pattern

Sew Simply by Pamela Pilon

*** All seam allowances are 1/4 inch unless otherwise noted. ***

POCKET 1. Sew the bias tape to the long edge of the pocket square. Backstitch at both ends. 2. Cut excess bias tape to match the width of the pocket square. 3. Fold the short sides under by ½ inch. Press. 4. Fold the bottom of the Pocket Square under by ½ inch. Press. 5. Using one of your tooth cutouts, print-side facing up, place your pocket square in the center of the tooth. Pin in place. 6. Stitch the pocket beginning at the top left corner, going down the edges at ⅛ inch, and come across the bottom and then finally up the right side. Leave the top unstitched and remember to backstitch at the beginning and the end. ASSEMBLING THE TOOTH 7. With print sides together, pin in place. 8. Stitch the raw edges together, leaving a gap open (as noted on the pattern) to allow to turn the pillow inside out and backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitch.

Sew Simply by Pamela Pilon

STUFFING THE PILLOW 9. Turn the pillow right side out through the gap you left in step 7. 10.Using batting, stuff the pillow by tearing small pieces of batting and stuffing into the roots of the tooth first. Packing it in tightly. FINISHING TOUCHES 11.Pin the hole closed and stitch using a needle and some thread. Note: You can also alter this design by folding over a ribbon to create a loop and stitch the raw ends into the hole using your sewing machine and top stitching it closed.

What Should We Do Today? Freedom By Natalie Cloutier

Many beautiful things happen in November up in the north. Fall is just ending, winter is just beginning. November is the month to remember those who have fought to keep us safe and free. Yes, Remembrance Day is a special occasion that many of us like to pay our respects to and pass on this value to our children. This issue will concentrate on fall activities as well as a special craft you can do with your little one in remembrance to those who have fallen for our freedom. Poem: In Flanders fields by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae In Flanders Fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved, and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch, be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

Craft: Finger Print Poppy Wreath You’ll need: - Red finger paint and green finger paint - Something to act as a pallet to put paint in (ie: margarine lid, scrap paper…) - Painting paper Instructions: - Dab your child’s thumb in the red paint and press down on the paper. - Do this 4 times on each corner of an imaginary square. - Dab your child’s thumb into the green paint and press down in the middle of the four red thumb prints. - Continue to do this all around to make a wreath.

Song:

Fall Leaf

Autumn Time Is Coming

This craft is perfect to teach little ones how to use scissors. This is an easy project that will decorate your home beautifully!

Red leaves falling Red leaves falling On the ground On the ground Autumn-time is coming Autumn-time is coming All around All around Orange leaves falling Orange leaves falling On the ground On the ground Autumn-time is coming Autumn-time is coming All around All around Brown leaves scattered Brown leaves scattered On the ground On the ground Autumn-time is now here Autumn-time is now here All around All around

You’ll need: - Children’s scissors - Red, green or orange tissue paper - White cardstock or construction paper - Glue Instructions: - You will need to cut out a template of a leaf with your white cardstock or construction paper. - Once done, cut strips of tissue paper (No more than ½ inch wide) - Give your child some scissors, and have them snip squares out of the strips of tissue paper. - Once they’ve completed cutting, give them glue and have them stick those squares onto the leaf template. - Once they’re done their project, they will have a beautiful autumn leaf! You can also try: Instead of cardstock, you can also use clear sheets to cut your template. Once your projects are completed, you may use your art work in the

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The Cafeteria Line By Diane Rochefort

Recently, the Ontario Government implemented a ban on junk food in schools in an effort to increase the healthier options available to students. In Ottawa, one of the schools complained that it was too expensive to offer healthy food. This makes my wheels turn! Shouldn’t the priority be on our children’s health? Are we better off not to have these food providers in our schools? Finally, what is the price of your child’s nutrition? I started to think: what meals did I get when I was in school? Some schools didn’t have cafeterias and we received hot lunches every week day. I remember what my school let me purchase; I couldn’t wait for hotdogs, subs, pizza, chicken burgers, B.L.T’s, and poutines. The key words here are ‘LET ME’.

LET ME! Do we really need our schools to LET our children have these bad foods? I don’t think so. What can we do about it? Firstly, we should start in home, giving our children the food they need from ages 1-19, before they leave the nest. Food interaction never ends with your kids, even as they get older and either raid your fridge or visit for dinner. When our babies are young, we have complete control over what they eat at home. We have the responsibility to make the healthy choices for them. As they get older and we let them make those choices themselves, it is the habits that we instilled at a young age that will guide them in their choices.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The Cafeteria Line By Diane Rochefort

Here are some guidelines to help guide you in making some easy, healthy choices at the different stages: Babies Kids - Pre Teens What’s going on? What’s going on? Our bodies either make The time when television the foods we give them or or flashy boxes get our we give small basic kids to eat multi coloured cereals or fruits. cereals or the fussy ones who want nothing at all.

Teens What’s going on? Breakfast? What’s that? Either the teen has no time or gives and excuse not to eat.

Practice Practice Practice Here’s a time to start Make your plates colourful Make what the fast food getting YOU into a as well. Dried blue restaurants provide for routine. Remember, berries, cranberries, your teen, but better. whatever you’re eating is raisins. Toast, cut into Give your teen the what your giving your shapes or have a picnic challenge, not chore, to baby. Or if their having for breakfast. Make this make breakfast better cereal, why don’t you have time a special time then the restaurant. Egg oat or rice cereal as well. together. burritos, smoothies, shakes, sandwiches.

Some say that our kids will just go elsewhere to get the junk they desire but at least we can feel better knowing that it’s that much harder for them to access it. I remembered that I am the one in charge of what I put in my mouth and my child’s. I feed my child by my heart and my pocket and maintain the focus of eating to teach my child about healthy choices and together we both benefit body, mind and spirit.

Go to www.eatsmartontario.ca/school for more info on the junk food ban implemented this past September and what options are now available in our schools. Need some breakfast idea? Check me out on Facebook D!Chef or email me @ dcheftimmins@gmail.com

Print out

SPANISH EGGS BENEDICT by: Diane Rochefort

A twist on the standard, try this deliciously simple breakfast idea to impress even the in-laws this holiday season! Got a question? Email Diane at dchetimmins@gmail.com

SPANISH EGGS BENEDICT by: Diane Rochefort

Prep Time: 30 min Makes: 3 servings INGREDIENTS: • • • •

3 eggs, poached orange cheddar, thinly sliced 3 potato cakes Salsa

Potato Cake: • 3 potatoes grated • 1 egg • 2 tbsp Italian breadcrumbs • Choice oil for frying • Salt and Pepper to Taste Salsa: • ¼ onion, grated • 2 tomatoes, diced • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1 tsp cilantro • 1 tsp olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste • Chilli peppers (optional)

DIRECTIONS: Potato Cake: 1 Mix all ingredients and form into flat cakes. 2 Fry in oil until crispy brown. Salsa: 1

Using a potato masher, mash everything into a juicy mixture.

Spanish Eggs Benedict: 1 Prepare salsa and potato cakes. 2 Poach eggs. 3 In order, layer potato cake, cheese, egg, salsa and serve.

Fast Play! Want to make it faster in the morning? Make your salsa ahead of time and it can even be used for a future snack. You can use toast or an English muffin instead of a potato cake.

Natures Recipes

With the upcoming cold weather and holiday season, most homes with wood burning fireplaces are getting ready to light the first fire of the season. A great natural way to minimize the amount of creosote build up in your chimney is by using sodium chloride, yup, plain old table salt. Not only will it help reduce build up, it also creates a cozy orange glow while burning.

•

Sprinkle ¼ to ½ a cup of regular table salt on fire wood either before or during fire.

*Please note that this does not replace the need to have your chimney properly cleaned on a regular basis. 41

HELLO WORLD By Chantal Warren

You may have heard about it, some of you may have even tuned in to watch Dr. Nancy Salgueiro give birth to her 3rd child early on the morning of Sunday, October 16, 2011. This Barrhaven (Ottawa) chiropractor and birth coach made waves around the world when she decided to live stream her home water birth over the internet. There was a lot of controversy over her decision as medical professionals and naysayers poopoo’d the idea stating privacy issues, healthy risks or a slew of other reasons. That didn’t sway her desire to share this amazing moment with family, friends, pregnant mothers and anyone else interested in witnessing the wonder of a natural birth. Now it’s not that uncommon to bear witness to a birth these days. With shows like A Baby Story, Bringing Home Baby and Baby’s First Day, most people understand birth to be a clinical, medical procedure. Most episodes depict a perfectly made up mother attached to machines or a screaming woman after 20 hours of labour at her wits end begging for drugs. Not too often are we able to bear witness to the calm, exciting experience of a natural, drug-free home birth. So why would any person in their right mind want to share such an experience live on the internet? Salgueiro hopes to educate people and show that, contrary to popular belief, birth is not an emergency or something to be feared. She is hoping that by sharing this un-edited event, people will see that a natural birth can be beautiful and gentle.

Photograph by: Mike Carroccetto, The Ottawa Citizen

She wants to show how birth unfolds and how women behave during labour and delivery. With over 10,000 people from around the world signed up to share this moment with the family and nearly 30,000 views to date, her message is being shared. We have become afraid of what is a natural part of life; something that, believe it or not, we have all experienced. To watch Dr. Nancy’s birth yourself, check out http://yourbirthcoach.com/naturalhome-birth-live-online/ , it may change your outlook on the whole experience of labour and delivery.

Birth Tales Stories are told by local northern mothers or fathers, To submit your story e-mail kayleighmay.homegrown@gmail.com

Â It had been a long 40 weeks and an even longer few years but we were finally having our baby! After two miscarriages and a few fertility treatments, we were on our way to the hospital to be induced. It was my due date: March 2, 2011. I was opposed to induction but when my doctor told me two days before that I was having a big baby and there were no signs of my body even getting ready for labour, my husband and I decided to go ahead with it. We were just so excited to finally be at this point - days away from being parents! We followed our instructions and arrived at the hospital mid-afternoon on March 2. After getting settled in and hooked up to all the machines, my doctor came in to give me the Cervidil. He explained that it was going to stay in overnight. The nurses would wake me up and I would shower and go into the Labour and Delivery room to get Pitocen and an epidural and we would have the baby sometime in the afternoon. Sounds pretty straight forward, right? Wrong! He also mentioned that there was a 50/50 chance the Cervidil would put me into labour but not to worry- it probably wasn't going to happen. After having the Cervidil in for half an hour, about 3:30pm, I started getting mild cramping. By five o'clock, the contractions were about 5 minutes apart and getting stronger. Between 6 and 7 o'clock, I walked the corridor, stopping every few minutes to have a contraction. This was starting to hurt. At 8:30, I was checked and was not even a centimetre. Come on! All that cramping and still nothing! By 9:30, I could not breath anymore. The intense pain was coming every minute or two and would last between 30 and 60 seconds. I couldn't help but moan and groan with every contraction. I

was now terrified because I knew it was about to get a whole lot worse. I was offered Morphine and Gravol to sleep. I was told it was just cramps and I needed to go to sleep to have my energy for the morning. Finally after screaming, crying, moaning, groaning, and running to the toilet every minute because I was leaking, my husband finally went and got a nurse to check me again. This was not cramping. After a few minutes, we were walking to the Labour and Delivery room- I was 7 centimetres. It was also 11:15pm, so I would not be getting the epidural I had been begging to get for the past hour. I was not impressed, to say the least. Then we went to the birthing room.Â I felt so excited but at the same time, like I was about to die. I kept thinking that I never want to feel this pain again. There had to be a better word for labour pain- it was torture! I felt so bad for our nurse, who was amazing through the whole ordeal. I couldn't stop crying and begging for them to help me. "How can you do this to me?" "How can you let me suffer like this?" "Do something!" "Call someone!" "I wanted to be checked at 10 o'clock so I could have an epidural!" "I can't do this anymore!" That went on and on and on. I feel so bad now, but I was as low as I had ever been. The laughing gas made me feel sick, the morphine made me tired. Having a baby was turning into a nightmare.

Birth Tales Stories are told by local northern mothers or fathers,

Somewhere between 1 and 2 o'clock, I had stopped progressing. I kept holding my breath for every contraction and therefore caused my cervix to swell. One step forward, ten steps back. There was a wonderful mid-wife doing her residency who came to offer her support in the middle of the night. We tried different things but this baby was stuck. After pushing for 45 minutes, I simply quit. Of course the contractions didn't stop but I was done. The baby was done too. Its heart rate was dipping extremely low with every push and it was just stuck there. I refused to push anymore and told them to call my doctor and cut it out of me. I had given up. In came my doctor, who was completely shocked that it was me that the nurse had called about. He was sure that he would have seen me in the morning as we had planned. He got the vacuum out, attached it to my baby's head and after a few really hard pushes, there was a very purple baby laying on my stomach at 5:08 am. "It's a boy!" I screamed, in delirium. The nurses took the baby right away. No one was saying a word. It was very quiet and matter of fact. I kept asking ‘why wasn't he crying’ and ‘what was wrong’.

Not even my husband was saying anything. He had seen the baby come out with the cord wrapped around his neck 3 times. With his medical background, he was very aware of the numbers on the monitor and that things were not great. The baby was gone for what felt like forever. His APGAR score was low and he had to have oxygen. He bounced back rather quickly and came back to the room where he successfully had his first feed. I could not believe my eyes. There is no other feeling in the world as good as looking at your newborn baby. That was the happiest moment in my life. I had never been so relieved and so in love. I would feel that pain again a million times over. It's been so worth it!

- Kathryn Renaud

To submit your story e-mail kayleighmay.homegrown@gmail.com

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... I just read this month's edition of your magazine. It is well done and well overdue. Thank-you for the hard work, your eﬀorts (and the eﬀorts of your team) are appreciated.... Kelleigh Manseau

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Colton Warren is proud to announce the birth of his new baby brother Kaelan Jonah Warren born at 5:28am on Thursday, October 27, 2011 8lbs 10oz Chantal & Jason Warren

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http://www.nheri.org/Latest/Homeschooling-Across-America-Academic-Achievement-and-Demographic-characteristics.html

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