tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62230935135935925242024-02-18T21:50:26.688-08:00Birth UtahEmpowering pregnant women to have amazing birth experiences...the beginning to being amazing parents!Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12771042507330317870noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-41668498034438856232015-06-02T06:01:00.000-07:002015-06-02T06:01:22.255-07:00CLASS DATE CHANGE!Those who are due fall/winter 2015 (or early 2016), please register now for the next session of childbirth education classes! Note: classes have been changed to TUESDAY nights and will be held in Bountiful.<br />
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Dates: <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Tuesday nights: July 7, 14, 21, 28; Aug 4, 11, 18, 25; Sept 1, 8</span><br />
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<br />Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-64989340729270043142015-05-25T21:58:00.002-07:002015-05-25T21:59:39.117-07:00Fall/Winter due dates? Register Now!If you have a fall or winter due date (or even Spring if you just really like to get ahead of the game), please click on the tabs above to register now for childbirth classes! Classes will be held THURSDAY evenings from July 9th--Sept 10th. Let me know if you have questions!Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-34423260645589781042015-05-25T21:32:00.002-07:002015-05-25T21:52:28.953-07:00Collin's Birth<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Birth Story of Collin Patrick Maloney</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After my first two children had been born at 41 weeks, I was fully expecting my third pregnancy to go past its due date as well. I was prepared with plenty of activities to keep me busy those last couple of weeks and still had tasks to do on the to-do list. Having a due date of February 28, I had just been telling people “early March” since the beginning to try to keep the stress down as I fully expected my due date to come and go with a baby still inside. However, there was a little voice inside me that said, “maybe this baby won’t be late. What if he came early?” I couldn’t tell if it was some sort of intuition or just wishful thinking (my hips were quite sore towards the end!), so I kept that idea to myself and just kept plugging away. However, as February came around, the nesting instinct kicked in more than it had in the past and Jonny and I spent a lot of time organizing and getting things ready around the house.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We had an appointment with our midwife, Rebecca, on Thursday February 19 after work. Everything looked good and right on target. She asked us, “Are you getting anxious to have this baby?” to which we replied, “Just let us get through this weekend first. Jonny has a big paper and presentation for school that he needs to do. Then this baby can come whenever he is ready.”</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The next day (Friday February 20), at 39 weeks exactly, I was having contractions throughout the day, starting when I woke up in the morning. I didn’t pay too much attention to them because I had been having contractions on and off for several days/weeks. These contractions were a bit more noticeable, but still mild and far apart. I complained to Jonny (at work) that they were annoying and I hoped they didn’t last for another two weeks til I went into “real” labor. The girls and I had a low key day at home, making some lactation cookie dough for the freezer and trying to get things cleaned up. The later the day got, the more urgency I felt to get the house clean. However, I wasn’t making progress fast enough as the kids were making messes and I was pausing for contractions while working.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jonny got home from work around 4pm and I asked for his help to get the living room and kitchen clean. He was tired from a long day at work and felt like he was getting sick, but he joined in to put away toys and vacuum. After about a half hour of that, Jonny started to realize that I was pretty serious about it and asked if I might possibly be in labor. With tears in my eyes and feeling a little overwhelmed, I replied that I wasn’t sure, because neither of us could fathom the idea of having a baby at 39 weeks. At this point, Maggie (our 2 year old) had found a bucket of crayons and markers and was drawing all over herself and the wall. I started texting my neighbors to see if someone was available to watch the kids for an hour or two while we figured out if it was real labor. Jonny put the kids in a bath around 5pm and convinced me that maybe I should give my parents a heads up, since it was the plan for them to watch the kids during labor and birth. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I was really unsure if I wanted to send the kids away for the night, since I still thought it might be a false alarm, and the kids don’t usually do as well sleeping away from home (and hadn’t ever spent a night without me). So my dad (who was on his way home from a meeting in Green River) came here to play with the kids downstairs and my mom headed down from Ogden.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After Jonny gave the kids a bath, I took a nice hot shower, then locked myself in my bedroom and turned on relaxing music on Pandora (Steven Sharp Nelson channel) to cope with contractions and decide what to do. I texted, and then called Rebecca around 6:30 to let her know what was going on. We decided we didn’t need her to come just yet, but we wanted her to be aware that we might need her that night.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Jonny got the kids bathed, in jammies, and made them some food while my dad entertained them downstairs. My mom showed up around 7, expecting to watch the kids at our house, but by the time she arrived, I was ready for the kids to go so I could have Jonny’s full attention. They got ready to go, and at quarter to eight as they were leaving, I let Rebecca know that we wanted her to come.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With the kids taken care of, Jonny sprang into action to get the birth tub set up and take care of my needs. I labored near him as he worked, kneeling on the floor leaning over the birth ball. Rebecca arrived at 8:30 and I was excited to get into the tub and accept the relief it offered, even though the water level was quite low still. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I got into the tub, I labored sitting up, leaning back against the side of the tub, for quite a while. At this point, I felt like I slowed the intensity down a little bit (the water calming me down and getting into a position that wasn’t putting as much downward pressure) and we took a few moments to breathe and take in the fact that we were actually going to have a baby that night, which was still unbelievable to us! We discussed what we would name him, joking that maybe if we named him Sean (one of our top contender names), Jonny’s professor (Shaun) would give him a break on his assignment that was due. The other top name was Collin. A nickname for Collin (in the baby name book) was Cub, which I called him as I talked to him during labor.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We continued to add more warm water as it was available (had to wait for the water heater tank to fill up again, so Rebecca boiled some water on the stove to supplement with) and Rebecca monitored my vitals and the baby’s heart beat. Everyone was doing really well. I switched positions and tried kneeling, resting my head and arms on the side of the tub. That position made labor more intense as it helped the baby continue to rotate and move down through my pelvis.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rebecca reminded me that all over the world, women were doing exactly what I was doing, that we were sharing in this sisterhood of labor. I remember being filled with gratitude at that moment, and saying, “and I’m one of the lucky ones.” I was so grateful to be in a safe, comfortable, loving environment with an awesome husband by my side and a competent caring midwife monitoring the safety of myself and my baby. There was only love and joy and peace in our birth, no stress or anger or fear. Our baby was healthy and we had a safe loving home waiting to welcome him.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I started pushing as the pressure got lower and lower and at 10:22, my waters broke. At this point, I was expecting him to be born immediately since my girls were born within 1-2 minutes after the water breaking. He needed to move down a bit more though, and it took a few minutes for his head to be born. Everyone was excited that they could see that he had lots of hair. After his head was born, it took a minute for the rest of his body to be born, as he wasn’t rotating all the way, so I asked Rebecca to help him a bit. He was born at 10:28 pm and we were instantly in love! I was able to bring him right up to my chest as his cord wasn’t wrapped around him at all. His face was puckery and his eyes were squeezed shut as his vernix-covered body stretched out for the first time outside the womb. It took him a minute to start crying (although the cord was still giving him plenty of oxygenated blood so he was fine) as we talked to him and rubbed his skin. Once he had that first gurgly cry, he didn’t stop talking the rest of the night! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After bonding in the tub with him for a bit (and waiting for the cord to stop pulsating), Rebecca helped Jonny cut the cord and gave him the baby to hold while I moved to the bed. The placenta was slow to deliver, and our baby wasn’t quite ready to latch on (still working out fluid in his nose), so I got a shot of pitocin to try to help move things along. Even with that, it still wasn’t coming along very quickly. I was starting to get stressed that I was going to require a catheter (as a full bladder can inhibit the delivery of the placenta) or further interventions, so I asked Jonny to say a prayer that things would continue to go as smoothly as they had, and I would be able to deliver the placenta and be able to enjoy snuggling my boy! Gratefully, after that, the large placenta was delivered and the bleeding was minimal. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We finally weighed our baby boy and it was announced that he was 9 lb 1 oz and 21.5 inches. I felt so grateful to have delivered a 9lb baby and have no stitches needed! Rebecca gave him a full checkup and everything looked great! We put him in his first outfit (newborn-sized froggie jammies that we then decided were too small for our big boy!) and took lots of pictures and enjoyed snuggling with him. All night that first night he just purred and whimpered with every breath, which was so sweet. Once he got the hang of latching on, he was a great nurser. We enjoyed the quiet night with just us and our little boy, but we were anxious to introduce him to his sisters, who came back the next day mid-day. They thought he was pretty cute, and then the chaos of having three kids began! :) It took us a few days to “officially” decide, but we decided to name him Collin Patrick Maloney. And he is very loved by his parents, sisters, grandparents, and so many more!</span><br />
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and an updated photo (now 3 mo old):</div>
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Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-32287654403079156702014-06-22T20:55:00.001-07:002014-06-22T20:55:25.889-07:00Next class: Fall 2014 My next class session will begin in fall 2014 (late October/early November) that will be appropriate for early 2015 due dates! Contact me for more information or to reserve your spot.Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-28060428129371323172014-04-07T11:00:00.004-07:002014-04-07T11:00:44.844-07:00Summer & fall due dates, register now!I am now taking registration for summer/fall due dates. Classes will be held on Thursday evenings from 6:30-9 in Bountiful. Starts May 1 and ends July 3. Contact me with questions or click the "register" tab above!Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-3628058719593958812013-12-19T06:47:00.001-08:002013-12-31T15:12:41.467-08:00Register Now! Class starts in January!For those of you with due dates in 2014, now is the time to register for childbirth education classes. I'm planning on teaching on THURSDAYS -- dates have changed -- please contact me directly for the schedule. Thanks!Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-4644394046360679532013-12-06T21:53:00.000-08:002013-12-06T21:53:03.112-08:00Happy Holidays! 2014 class schedule coming soon....If it wasn't for the snow blanketing my yard, I'd have a hard time believing that 2013 is drawing to a close. It's been a wonderful year for our family, enjoying watching our two girls grow and thrive. I've been blessed to meet amazing people as they prepare for the births of their babies!<br />
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I'm now finalizing my schedule for my first 2014 class series, which will finish in time for April-June 2014 due dates. Email me at hailey@birthutah.com if you are interested in this class series! I'll post details here and on facebook as soon as it is scheduled.<br />
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Happy Holidays to all and a blessed new year!Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-69818953485801942402013-09-20T20:10:00.001-07:002013-09-20T20:12:11.430-07:00A Birth Center Birth Story <i>I am so grateful today to be able to share an incredible birth story from a beautiful family. Thank you for sharing in your words your experience!</i><br />
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New Year’s Eve 2012. I had an evening of errands and a little cleaning planned while Andrew worked . . . errands that included picking up one or two ‘girly’ clothing items for the baby, in the case that our little ‘he or she’ was the latter. Our baby’s room seemed fully stocked with gender neutral clothing (maybe even a little heavy on the blue), but I had some gender biased notion that bringing a baby girl home dressed like ‘girl’ would be sweet. I washed and packed away the new little outfit into our only packed-for-the-birth-center bag (no need to have anything else ready to go yet, right, as this baby was staying in until our due date . . . or so we naïvely thought). Time to finally wash the kitchen floor (a task I had put off for at least two weeks; bending and scrubbing and a nice sized baby bump just didn’t seem to go hand in hand, so I procrastinated). But the Lucian hair was starting to collect in the corners (the dog that didn’t shed a wink for the first year of his life seems to have become your standard d-o-g, shedding and all). I don’t think I had even really started the sweeping when I started feeling a little uncomfortable . . . general tightening (like the Braxton-Hicks we’d been feeling for months, but actually somewhat ‘painful’). Maybe I wasn’t paying attention during our wonderful childbirth class, but I couldn’t remember what an early stage labor contraction was supposed to feel like. I figured this sensation was just the result of a little dehydration, opened a coconut water and went back to cleaning, pausing every once and awhile to rub my very tight, uncomfortable belly. I won’t claim to have done a solid job cleaning that floor (by the end of the short cleaning session, the waves of tightening were fairly strong, but I was clearly in denial). By 8:30pm or so, Lucian and I were snuggled on the couch, watching Enchanted (half-heartedly) and catching up on some emails, waiting for Andrew to get home from work. I played around with baby names (we still hadn’t settled and our ‘top five’ girls list was still a ‘top fifteen’ or so) and started dinner. Andrew came home at around 9:30 or so, and I distinctly remember saying “don’t worry, I don’t think it’s labor, but I’m feeling a little weird and it’s kind of regular” . . . He and I both figured that these came on too quickly, not strong enough, and too regularly (what were we thinking?! Wouldn’t regularity be a clue?) for them to be actual labor. We thought I would drink some water, get some sleep and by morning we’d be back to normal. Silly kids! We did sit down and figure out our top five girl names . . . my “just in case” instinct. I didn’t make it until “Happy New Years!”, but instead headed up to bed at about 11:30 to try to sleep. No such luck. I downloaded a little contraction timer and squirmed around in our bed, timing these now significantly uncomfortable contractions. Significantly uncomfortable might be downplaying it, but I had nothing to compare these to, and I figured ‘real’ labor would be excruciating. I googled ‘early labor’ and saw story after story of ‘false labor’ (we call it ‘practice labor’, which I much prefer). Nonetheless, the contractions continued . . . averaging about 50 to 60 seconds, every two and a half to three minutes. I know, I know . . . looking back on this, it seems silly that we didn’t recognize this as labor-labor, but I’ve been so mellow this whole pregnancy (part of the reason I thought it might be a girl), it kind of was par for the course for us to brush aside these strong, frequent contractions. Andrew went to bed a little after midnight (as we joked, “you ready for a baby?!”) and I tried to sleep. No such luck (again). I wandered around the house, pausing every two minutes or so to crouch/squat on the floor and hang my belly in between my legs (trying to relax into the contraction). It was strong, but the ‘go with it’, ‘ride the waves’, ‘this is only temporary’, and ‘I’m not alone . . . think of all the women in the world that are going through this in their own way right now’ mantras were helpful. I ran a bath, thinking that would slow things down . . . Nope! Time seemed to go by both quickly and slowly as I passed through the house, followed by Lucian’s watchful eye. I was trying to eat small things (kefir, fruit leather, a cliff bar . . . ) between contractions and drink plenty of liquids. When I’d pause on the floor, Lucian would check on me. It was comforting to have ‘someone’ to share this crazy (difficult?) movement through time with and I had no need to wake Andrew (at this point I was pretty sure the labor was for real). I figured it was best to let him rest while he could. By 4:15 in the morning, the contractions were unbelievably strong (I had one minor breakdown on the living room floor, thinking ‘woah, what did I get myself into’, but it lasted through one contraction . . . I refocused on all the positives – we get to meet our little one soon! -- and it set me in motion to get Andrew). Climbing the stairs and getting to our bedroom took another two contractions, and then I worked through another on our bedroom floor before I was able to get Andrew from bed. “I think it’s really time to call Becky . . . “ (our midwife on duty). She’s beyond well versed and I think she could tell we needed to head on into the birth center. We (Andrew) told her we’d be there in about 45 minutes and then Andrew had to race around the house to get our labor bags finalized. I had all these wonderful labor snacks and goodies and toiletries ready to go, thinking we’d be laboring at our birth center for hours . . . hmm . . . is it foreshadowing to just come out and say that all this running around to gather things was highly unnecessary?<br />
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Easily the worst part of the evening was the car ride to the birth center (all of nearly 10 minutes). I couldn’t sit through a contraction at home (why hospitals make women labor in a lying/sitting position is beyond me . . . these were by far the most painful positions) so sitting through contractions in a moving vehicle was not looking to be very promising. We zipped (. . . did I say ‘zipped’? I meant wobbled . . . waddled . . . swayed . . . ) out of our house at about 5:30am on New Year’s Day . . . the air was beyond crisp (in the low teens and snowing on and off) and the streets were beautifully quiet. I felt kind of like a drunk passenger (all the twinkling lights and kind of unaware of where in the drive we were, even though it’s a drive we know so well). Only one red light . . . and Andrew drove plenty fast enough to make me feel safe. Still, I started to feel a slight need to push as we sped down 9th South and neared the birth center. If I was in a state of mind to think clearly, I would have recognized this as ‘transition’, but I was so focused on moving with and through each contraction that the idea of ‘stages’ didn’t occur to me. I climbed out of the car and ended up having a contraction on the pavement (thinking “I’m not the first one to do this!”). The icy cool of the pavement felt nice and real (out of this weird car ride dream world) and it grounded me. Becky let us into the warm, dim birthing room (one more contraction on the floor) and had me checked for dilation . . . 8 and a half centimeters dilated! I think even she was surprised. Excuse my bragging . . . Most first time mums don’t make it to 8.5cm while laboring at home (in the U.S.). Becky had the birthing tub (gorgeous ritzy hotel grade Jacuzzi tub) drawn and ready for me and I couldn’t have jumped in quickly enough. Baths have always been my place of calm, comfort and focus. It was almost simple and second nature to climb in and the urge to push was almost immediate. I felt completely empowered, as our midwife and birth attendant stepped back and let me do what my body was made to do. Every once and awhile she would remind me to move with the waves (contractions) or slow down (I had the same urgency to get this little mystery child out as this little wonder baby had to be out)! I guess we worked together, this little one and I . . . The pushing was the most comforting part (not really painful until the final two pushes, just strenuous and overpowering). Every part of this labor has its purpose and when you’re finally able to feel and see what you have been waiting all these months (years!) for . . . that becomes an easy focal point. *For those that think I’m being silly by saying the pushing wasn’t painful -- It was the contractions prior to the urge to push that were painful, don’t be mistaken! <br />
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No more than 40 minutes in the tub, pushing through contractions and she was in my arms. Becky asked if we’d like to catch her and, of course, I had been waiting my whole life for this so I was pleased that our little baby popped right out (head and elbow/arm first) and I carried her up onto my chest. She came out in the same pose she spent much of her ‘in the belly time’ in . . . One hand up by her face. In fact, as I type, she is lying across my chest/belly, body splayed open (‘yay, I can finally stretch out!’) with one hand pressed against her face.<br />
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We were in such a moment of disbelief and shock and elation that we forgot to even check whether she (yes, she!) was a boy or a girl! Finally I flipped her around and Andrew said “girl!” (he was right all along) and we just stared at her and stroked her. The water suddenly felt much cooler than it had (I was a little heater through the labor) and we covered her in a warm, wet towel, placed a little hat on her sweet head (little reddish blonde hair!) and spent about 15 minutes snuggled in the bath. Papa Andrew took some photos and then took our little yet-unnamed bundle from me to hold. I was still in a state of awe, but seeing him hold her for the first time (like a natural father!) was beyond incredible. He stared at her melted (and it’s been that way ever since). I climbed out of the tub and was given a shot in the leg (wee!) and was situated on the bed so that Becky could check bleeding and for tears. No perennial tearing (thankfully, as with the speed she came out, I think they were expecting a little something), but the little warrior with her elbow up through the birth did a little deep scratch internally, so they quickly gave me a couple stitches (my first!) and then brought our little girl back to me for her first non-placenta-umbilical meal J We did a little kangaroo snuggling, skin to skin, as she fed. Andrew climbed onto the big bed with us and we got to lay there and bask in her sweetness. It was wonderful to be left alone for our first time as a family (minus little Lucian who was exhausted at home after being my labor doula). We spent about an hour there, just snuggled together, and then Becky and Megan (the birth attendant) came back to do some vitals, check on our daughter (our daughter!!!!) and make sure I was able to get up and pee (no problems there . . . adrenaline is this incredible, natural drug). Baby girl Philp was weighed (7lbs. 0oz.) and measured (19in. long . . . much of it in her skinny – but strong – little legs). We watched as they gracefully checked her over (all while in our birthing room), with barely a peep as she was given her first little shot (braver than her Mama, already). <br />
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I watched as Andrew gave the sweet little thing her first bath (back into the water she went!) and she barely fussed as she entered the water . . . So calm. We kept looking at each other and saying “she is SO good . . . she is SO amazing . . . she is SO incredible . . . “ Maybe the midwives say it to all new parents, but they were pretty impressed with her easiness (and the quick, seemingly scripted labor).<br />
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We got our little girl bundled and snuggled up again . . . time drifted by and we were checked a few more times before given the okay to pack up and head out into our world for the first time as a little family of 3 (Lucian just kicked me in his sleep to remind me we were already a family of 3 and I should correct myself). J Not a whimper as she was strapped into her car seat and carried out into what became a bright, crisp New Year’s Day. By 1:00pm we were on the road and on our way home to begin this new adventure!<br />
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I have this strange notion of entering the birth center as just two people and leaving as three . . . Enter with baby in belly, leave with baby in arms. It’s like the birth center was this strange portal through which our daughter came into this world. It will always be a special place for us (and I can’t say more good things about our experience with a natural birth)! <br />
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More on our first day home, when I get the chance to write. I’m passing little Malin (she remained nameless until late-afternoon on her first day) off to Andrew so I can get dinner and then get Malin her dinner. We’re in a blissful world of newborn love, adventure and learning. So thankful for all the friends and family and new friends and new family that have guided us through this journey and will be there for us through this next chapter. 2012 was a year of blessings and 2013 started out to be the year of miracles (in the most natural sense of the word). <br />
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Love,<br />
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A very happy MamaHailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-6289572512847527892013-09-17T06:33:00.001-07:002013-09-26T09:27:10.875-07:00Register Now: Childbirth Class October-November 2013Now taking registration for my fall series of childbirth education classes! This will be a special 8 week series that's ideal for moms due this winter or spring. Classes will be held from Oct 8 through Nov 26 on Tuesday nights from 6:30 til 9. Tuition is $275, which includes all books, materials, snacks, etc. Please register online (see the "register" tab above) or email me with any questions! Hailey@birthutah.com<br />
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Note: Since this class is 8 sessions instead of my usual 10, I will have to condense some of my information and let students do a bit more reading on their own. My goal is to still cover the same information, just to be more brief on topics that are less pertinent to the current group. :)Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-10807408794148049712013-08-04T08:00:00.000-07:002013-08-05T22:12:41.573-07:00Re-lactation- Breastfeeding Success: Guest Post<br />
<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" height="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
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<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about breastfeeding success stories. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<i>We've reached the last day of the Breastfeeding Cafe Blog Carnival! I'm amazed I was able to post everyday. :) If you're local, come visit the Breastfeeding Cafe at the Main library downtown; check their calendar for upcoming events!</i><br />
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</i> <i>Today's post is about breastfeeding success, and as I type and nurse my beautiful 6 month old and watch my smart, funny, healthy 2 year old, I feel grateful for my successful breastfeeding relationships. However, when I saw this topic I knew whose story would be perfect to share.</i><br />
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</i> <i>So, today's post comes from my friend Elisabeth. She took my classes before the birth of her daughter in 2011, and she's an amazing person and incredible mother. I admire her so much. Elisabeth is currently anticipating the arrival of her second baby! The rest of this post are her words.</i><br />
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</i> <div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">When I found out I was pregnant, I already had a plan. I was going to have a home birth, and I was going to nurse by baby until she was at least aged 2. And I didn’t have my head in the clouds about it; I did my research on home birth, and I attended every La Leche League meeting until the birth of my baby.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">But my plan began to fall apart when, after 22 hours of labor, we were surprised with a bottom, rather than a head, in the birth canal. I ended up transferring to the hospital and had a c-section about 4 hours later. But immediately following my daughter’s Cesarean birth I was still a lucky Momma. Maybe it was the 24 hours of natural labor that came before, or just plain good luck, but my milk came in fast and there was plenty of it. But the next 8 weeks were difficult, as I had imagined within days of giving birth that I would be walking up and down the street with my new baby in my arms. I felt a little sorry for myself, but I knew we had done everything we could to have a natural birth. I was mostly angry for the thousands of mothers given C-sections for the convenience of their doctors. It was a terribly difficult way to start motherhood, and made breastfeeding more challenging than it otherwise would have been.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">While my wounds healed fast, my overall health was deteriorating. I had terrible back pain and spasms that came and went. I was finally diagnosed with a bulged disc, and was told time and rest would improve things. I temporarily gave up nursing when my baby was 2 ½ months because I could barely hold her anymore, and for some reason lying on my side to nurse hurt more than anything. I cried the first time she took a bottle, even though at first it was still breast milk. The months went by and the medications increased to keep up with the increasing pain. I lost weight. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The doctors didn’t know why I wasn’t getting better, and they gave me more painkillers and valium to help me sleep. Eventually we had to hire someone to take care of our baby because I could hardly take care of myself, let alone her. Those were dark days, and added to the list of medications were two anti-depressants. Post-partum depression was thrown around and I wanted to scream. I wasn’t depressed because I just had a baby, I was depressed because I was sick, I was sure I was dying; I just had a baby I loved more than life itself and couldn’t even take care of her. The fact this was happening “post-partum” had nothing to do with it; something was physically wrong with me, and nobody could tell me what it was. I was 15 pounds under my already thin pre-pregnancy weight, and I finally had to stop pumping milk. I lost so much weight I wouldn’t let anyone take pictures of me and would only let a couple of close friends see me. I couldn’t sleep because of the pain. I would cry into my baby’s outgrown reindeer snowsuit from loneliness as she and my husband slept together in the next room. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Eventually my new and brilliant doctor identified one definite problem: I was addicted to the pain medications. I put myself on a three-week schedule to wean off the Lortab and Vallium, and experienced a month of pain and anxiety while detoxing that was unimaginable. But it was worth every second of knowing we had a plan and were closer to figuring out what was actually wrong with me. When my baby was about 5 months old, the anxiety attacks stopped and I was off every medication…Trazadone, Lortab, Valium, and Celexa. I was still in pain, still barely able to sleep, and still dependent on Jane’s nanny for her care, but the pain was different, and I went to see my doctor again, proudly bringing in my purse the leftover pills for disposal.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">It was then that she asked me about ulcers, and I said yes, I had them before, a long time ago. So she put me on Prilosec. That night I took it before bed, and finally fell asleep. In the past, I would sleep for a maximum of 2 hours before pain would wake me. But this time, I woke up 4 hours later in no pain. Alone in bed, I waited for the pain to start, but it never did. I was so excited I couldn’t sleep. I could hardly believe my luck. Was it possible I just had a mad case of ulcers? <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">I did some research and discovered that yes, peptic ulcers can cause back pain (and all those medications only makes them worse). I was so thrilled to be alive and well and cured I just focused on my baby. It didn’t occur to me for a few weeks to be angry at the stupidity of it all. Within a day it she remembered who I was, that I had been “gone” before, and she wouldn’t let me go. We all started to sleep together again, and I just wanted to move on from my terrible experience. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">But within a couple of weeks I was crying all the time again. I was angry at what had been stolen from me, months of my baby’s life I would never get back, and losing the nursing relationship I had worked so hard for. I had attended every La Leche League meeting I could during my pregnancy. I was proud of how long I had held on to nursing, but it was a far cry from what I had hoped for.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">So as soon as I discovered that re-lactation was an option, I knew I had to try it. I couldn’t get back those months with my baby, but if I could nurse again, I believed I could put my pain behind me. I was not worried about my supply. I knew I would produce enough milk and in the off chance I didn’t, I knew every little bit I did was important for my baby. The problem was helping my baby remember how to nurse. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I pumped for a couple of months while trying the many wonderful suggestions from my friends at La Leche League. I took Fenugreek and ate oatmeal. I stayed well hydrated. I slept skin to skin with my baby, not only to help her remember to nurse, but also because just being close to your baby helps your body produce the hormones needed to make milk. I pumped in the middle of the night, when those hormones are highest. Progress in my supply was noticeable, but although Jane showed some promising early signs such as relaxing against me when we were skin to skin and even turning her head to my chest, she hardly noticed or cared about my breasts. My heart broke at her excitement to be given a bottle.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The SNS was a disaster for us. She would play with the tubes and not try latching, even with a nipple shield. She was too old not to find them entertaining. I must have tried it several times before I decided that if every session would result in a sobbing baby and me chucking the SNS across the room that it just wasn’t going to work for us. I had to figure something else out, not just to help her, but for my own sanity. I had to figure out something realistic that I could handle.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">After doing some reading and talking to La Leche League some more, I found an article online which would end up being one of the most useful tips I came across. It was about re-lactation for adopted babies. As far as teaching baby to nurse, it reminded mothers that nursing is an intimate act that is part of the trusting relationship between Mom and Baby. It really resonated with me. I felt that my baby, in being abruptly weaned at a young age, then hardly being held close by her mother for two months, that I had to rebuild that basic relationship with her. I stopped worrying so much about every attempt to nurse but focused on just bonding with her through bottle feeding, diaper changing, and just everyday activities together. I promised her over and over that I would still love her as much as ever if she chose not to nurse again, but if she did that I would always be there for her, that she could trust me, that I was sorry about weaning her before and not being able to take care of her before. I would talk to her like this very calmly and softly at night before going to sleep, but often I would have tears running down my face in the dark.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Finally, we went on a long vacation and I needed to figure out exactly what I could handle while we were away. Just in time, I had an email from an old high school friend who is an IBCLC in Australia who reminded me that lots of skin to skin was most important. So I made a decision: I would do what I could on vacation, things that were working for us already, but focus on consistently continuing to a) keep my supply up by maintaining a pumping schedule, b) provide as much skin to skin as I could considering we would almost constantly be around relatives and c) “nurse” her during bottle feedings by putting her face against my bare skin (even if it wasn’t actually my breast) and looking at her and smiling at her like we were nursing. Even though by now she could certainly hold her own bottle, these were things that I knew I could do without going crazy on what was supposed to be a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. I also packed my nipple shield, just in case, but had no intention of using it. I just knew if an opportunity presented itself I would be sorry if I didn’t have it.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A week or so of our trip went by and Jane started exhibiting some strange behaviors. She started rooting on everything, my 8 year old cousin, my husband, even the bed. I saw her doing it from out a window when she and my husband were lounging outside on a blanket on the grass. I knew what she was looking for, even if she still didn’t. Suddenly I knew she would get it, and she would get it soon.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I had a bottle of breast milk ready for her nap, but when I brought her into the guest room, I took out the nipple shield and closed the door. By now I had enough of a supply that I was able to hand express some milk into the shield and offered her my breast while we lay side by side on the bed. On the third try, she latched on. I did not cry tears of joy, which surprised me. I just breathed a sigh of relief. I knew I only had about half the milk she needed for each day, but I knew the hardest part was over. She began nursing again, at 7 ½ months old, 5 months after the last time she nursed and about 2 months since I started the process of re-lactation. When she fell asleep I went straight to my husband with the bottle of breast milk, still full. It took him a second to figure out what it meant. Then I messaged my friend and LLL Leader Meghan, who had been my primary source of information, incouragement, and let's face it, emotional sounding board through my entire experience. As luck would have it, she was on her way to a leaders meeting, where everyone cheered at the news. I felt blessed with my wonderful family and friends and their support.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">At first she would nurse at night and for naps (no more getting up to pump!). I started nursing her in the Ergo, too, and she took to that well. Within a few days it was obvious she didn’t need the nipple shield. We were walking all around New York City, her in the Ergo, my husband peeking in to watch her nurse, even more in awe of the sight than he had been when she was a newborn. It was even more miraculous the second time around. I stopped pumping almost immediately because I was so tired of it, but with good breastfeeding management I was up to a full supply anyway when she was about 9 months old. It was a struggle, but not a day goes by that I am not grateful to have my nursing relationship back with my baby.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I am not sure how to close this up except to share my advice for mothers who wish to re-lactate. Be realistic, have hope, learn everything you can, try it all, and then use what works for you and your baby. It also helps to have a supportive friend and knowledgeable person on your side, as well as a supportive partner. Thank you to La Leche League who taught me everything I needed to know, my friends and leaders Meghan and Megan, and all the other leaders in Salt Lake who were behind us every step of the way. I also wouldn’t have done it without my husband, whose complete faith and support helped me make it through the toughest days. And to my baby girl, for making me a Mother, the hardest but best job in the world.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">--Elisabeth Epperson<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul><li>Amy @ Wildflower Ramblings-<a href="http://wildflowerramblings.com/breastfeeding/my-sweet-nursling-my-second-breastfeeding-journey-through-bleeding-and-a-tongue-tie/">My sweet nursling {breastfeeding through bleeding and a tongue tie}</a></li>
<li>Sara @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/08/my-breastfeeding-success/">My breastfeeding success</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1om">Three Years and Two Months</a></li>
<li>Krystyna @ Sweet Pea Families-<a href="http://www.sweetpeafamilies.com/2013/08/04/192/">Breastfeeding Success from Start to Here</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/08/re-lactation-breastfeeding-success.html">Re-lactation Breastfeeding Success</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/08/story-of-our-success.html">Story of Our Success</a></li>
<li>Mercedes @ Project Procrastinot-<a href="http://projectprocrastinot.blogspot.com/2013/08/bfing.html">Bfing</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/08/breastfeeding-success.html">Breastfeeding Success</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Danielle-<a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/2013/08/04/breastfeeding-success/ ">Breastfeeding Success</a></li>
</ul>Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-77477566049839544762013-08-03T07:35:00.003-07:002013-08-04T07:25:54.221-07:00Got my guard up...feeding my baby<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
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<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about your most unlikely support. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<hr /> Saturday, August 3rd - Your most unlikely support: was there someone in your life that you expected to give you grief about nursing, but instead was your biggest fan?<br />
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When my first daughter was 10 weeks old, I was on a crowded plane with her and she was hungry (more about that trip <a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/2011/07/25/first-experience-nursing-in-public/">here</a>). Of course, I began to feed (breastfeed) her. I had an aisle seat and was sitting next to a stranger who was a young adult man. I was relieved when I was able to get her to latch on successfully without elbowing the guy or causing a scene. However, nursing in a tiny airplane seat was a bit awkward and my elbow and knee were sticking out into the aisle. As the older male flight attendant came down the aisle to give us a drink and a cookie (the good old days when Frontier airlines gave out warm chocolate chip cookies...), I was thinking of a few come-backs in case he gave me grief about nursing my baby. Instead, he smiled warmly at me, handed me my drink, and gave me not one, but two of the warm cookies with the comment, "Here's one for you and one for the baby...but you might have to eat hers for her." It was a simple gesture, but as a new unsure mom, it felt like a pat on the back and helped me to calm down and enjoy the rest of the flight without stressing out about feeding my baby.<br />
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Flash forward to when my second daughter was 6 months old (this was just a few weeks ago), and we were at a Target Portrait Studio trying to get a couple quick snapshots taken. My poor baby was hungry and tired and NOT cooperative. They offered to let another family go ahead of us so I could work on calming the baby and we could try again. Sitting in the waiting chairs, I began to nurse her. The other photographer, an older male, approached me and I wondered if he was going to ask me to go somewhere else to nurse. Nope!! He came over and said, "I'm so glad to see you nursing in here. We have a daughter about that age and I totally get it- when they need to eat, they need to eat! Did you hear about that mom who got grief at the <a href="http://fox13now.com/2013/07/11/ogden-mother-told-to-cover-up-while-breastfeeding-at-public-pool/">swimming pool</a> for feeding her baby? That's ridiculous!..." and continued for a bit to discuss the importance of nursing in public. I appreciated his support, my child calmed down, and we got a cute picture a few minutes later:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfFGSkqaF0sgIYpOoCPqROqwU1jLyZNPqg6uViVeSWwa1fMLnmSYK0Ir4hMy8qp9QIdWt8xE6dTYCkrjz-vMsmwI_YV87WToKLGJZUhdxeSf_R48Hwjtd-dFA1-BBXaqKSMMhKfo1B_Mgi/s1600/1072076_10152039906692892_1710872329_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfFGSkqaF0sgIYpOoCPqROqwU1jLyZNPqg6uViVeSWwa1fMLnmSYK0Ir4hMy8qp9QIdWt8xE6dTYCkrjz-vMsmwI_YV87WToKLGJZUhdxeSf_R48Hwjtd-dFA1-BBXaqKSMMhKfo1B_Mgi/s320/1072076_10152039906692892_1710872329_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
These two brief encounters were no big deal, but I really appreciated both of these guys for their support instead of criticism. Braced for a fight, I've been very pleased that people have been supportive of my nursing in public!<br />
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More importantly, and a more accurate answer to this question, I appreciate the support from my mother-in-law. I shouldn't have expected anything less than support from her, because she has always been very kind and loving to me even when my decisions are different from her own (and being different, perhaps make her a bit nervous....like my out-of-hospital birth). I was a little concerned that since she hadn't nursed any of her children, she might not understand my desire to<b> </b>exclusively<b> </b>breastfeed and would push supplementing with formula or something. Not only did she not make any discouraging comments or try to sway me, she was a vocal advocate of my breastfeeding, always commenting on a new study she'd heard about the benefits, taking into consideration my need to feed my baby when she was hungry, making it clear that I was welcome to nurse in her house whenever and wherever I needed to, and telling me what a good mom I was. What a wonderful gift she gave me with her support!<br />
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So, next time you see a nursing mother, remember that being a parent can sometimes be hard, and she might need a boost. You might be the one who can make her day!<br />
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<hr /> <br />
<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul><li>Katy Rank Lev @ Mommy News and Views-<a href="http://mommynewsblog.com/support-from-unlikely-sources">Support from Unlikely Sources</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1o8">My Most Unlikely Support Is... Me</a></li>
<li>Christine @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/08/breastfeeding-and-my-mother-in-law/">Breastfeeding and my mother-in-law</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/08/unexpected-places-of-heart.html">Unexpected Places of the Heart</a></li>
<li>Krystyna @ Sweet Pea Families-<a href="http://www.sweetpeafamilies.com/2013/08/03/my-boss-said-yes/">My Boss Said Yes</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/08/finding-unexpected-support-in-our.html">Finding unexpected support in our community</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/08/got-my-guard-upfeeding-my-baby.html">Got my guard up... feeding my baby</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Sarah-<a href="http://wp.me/pwUtv-FU">Most Unlikely Support-The Grandma Generation</a></li>
</ul>Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-46701557491136081742013-08-02T06:00:00.000-07:002013-08-03T06:50:44.883-07:00Tips for Breastfeeding Success<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" height="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
<br />
<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is your tips to succeed. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_56022104" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Friday, August 2nd</span></span> </strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">- Your tips to succeed: what do you wish you would have known or were happy that you knew to help you succeed with breastfeeding.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">I am grateful to have had a lot of things going for me when I started breastfeeding: an amazingly supportive husband, a great childbirth educator who instilled in me a confidence that I <i>could</i> and <i>should</i> breastfeed my baby, a wonderful <a href="http://www.greatexpectationsbc.com/">midwife </a>who helped me to get off to a great start, and supportive family. I'm grateful I understood the basics of supply and demand, had a good support system, attended <a href="http://lllutah.org/">La Leche League</a> and knew a few good resources (<a href="http://kellymom.com/">kellymom</a>!).</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">I wish I'd known more about babywearing with good carriers that I could nurse in. Once I figured that out (when my first daughter was about 9 months old), a whole new world of freedom was open to me :). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">I also wish I'd known more about lip-tie and tongue-tie. If you are concerned about lip-tie and/or tongue-tie, attend a LLL meeting, have a consultatation with an <a href="http://www.ilca.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3337">IBCLC</a>, and consult a qualified pediatric dentist, such as <a href="http://www.dcpdsmiles.com/about.html">Dr. Richter</a> here in Utah.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia, Bitstream Charter, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">Also...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">One of my favorite articles on getting started right with breastfeeding is by <a href="http://www.nbci.ca/index.php?option=com_content&id=45:breastfeeding-starting-out-right&Itemid=17">Dr. Jack Newman</a>.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">What do you wish you'd known?? or were glad you knew??</span><br />
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<hr /> <br />
<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul><li>Katy Rank Lev @ Mommy News and Views-<a href="http://mommynewsblog.com/tips-to-succeed-what-i-wish-id-known/">Tips to Succeed: What I Wish I'd Known</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1o6">Creating Your Support System</a></li>
<li>Christine @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/08/my-most-helpful-breastfeeding-tip/">My Most Helpful Breastfeeding Tip</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/08/breastfeeding-tips-for-success.html">Breastfeeding: Tips for success!</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/08/tips-for-breastfeeding-success.html">Tips for Breastfeeding Success</a></li>
<li>Krystyna @ Sweet Pea Births-<a href="http://www.sweetpeabirths.com/blog/2013/08/02/5-Tips-for-Mamas-Learning-About-Breastfeeding.aspx">5 Tips for Mama Learning About Breastfeeding</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Lexy Sauvé-<a href="http://wp.me/pwUtv-FJ">Stick It Out</a></li>
</ul>Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-10764658317341269952013-08-01T09:35:00.000-07:002013-08-01T13:31:57.679-07:00New class: Birth BasicsThis August, I'm offering a 2 session "Birth Basics" course. I have contemplated this for a while, and I'm excited to be able to offer this education to people who otherwise might not be able to attend my comprehensive classes. However, it is important to know that this class is just the basics of birth- in such a short time I'm not able to cover all the same information as I normally do.<br />
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By the end of this "Birth Basics" class, you should have these questions answered:<br />
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<ul><li>How do I know when I'm in labor?</li>
<li>What happens during labor? (stages, terminology, etc.)</li>
<li>What can my partner do to support me? (physically, mentally, and emotionally)</li>
<li>How do I know when to go to the hospital?</li>
</ul><div>You will also be aware of :</div><ul><li>Lots of positions to use during labor and delivery</li>
<li>A variety of coping techniques</li>
<li>How a birth plan can help you have the birth you want</li>
</ul><div>In addition, the class will help to:</div><br />
<ul><li>Identify good sources to help you gain the information you need</li>
<li>Connect you with a network of resources to further your preparation for birth and parenting</li>
</ul><br />
<div>This class would be approriate for all women- those who are desire to labor and deliver unmedicated ("going natural") or those who plan to have an epidural. You'll get the basics of birth so you'll have some idea of what to expect. Come join us! You'll be glad you did!</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Dates: </b>Tuesdays August 20 and 27</div><div><b>Time:</b> 6:30-9:00 (may go to 9:30 if we have more questions, discussion, etc.)</div><div><b>Location:</b> <a href="http://honeybumpmaternity.com/">Honey Bump Maternity</a> in Layton </div><div><b>Fee:</b> $60 includes class for mom and partner or anyone who will be attending her birth, along with supplies, snack, and follow-up email ($10 deposit to save your spot, remaining $50 due at the first session)</div><div><br />
</div><div>Please <a href="http://www.birthutah.com/p/contact.html">contact me</a> if you have any questions.</div><div><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ELpQ2M_yXsskSyHbBSKlaaXiM0TB_TwG0amx1JOY_F0/viewform">Register</a> TODAY to save your spot!</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>If you are short on time or short on cash (or both!), or if you live far away from Salt Lake, this class might be better for you than my regular comprehensive classes. However, if you are hoping for a comprehensive experience (with information on prenatal wellness, more in-depth info on labor and delivery, various and complications, labor rehearsal practice, breastfeeding, newborn care, postpartum healing,etc.) then please contact me about my upcoming comprehensive class (starting in September).<br />
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If you'd like to pay via paypal, you may do so here (price slightly higher due to fees):<br />
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<option value="Deposit">Deposit $10.50 USD</option><br />
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</div>Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-47982233906753816742013-08-01T06:57:00.001-07:002013-08-01T20:49:09.249-07:00Nursing in Public<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
<br />
<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about nursing in public. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thursday, August 1st - </strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">Breastfeeding in public: do you have any tips or tricks? Why is it important to you? Has anyone ever confronted you about breastfeeding in public?</span><br />
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</span> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">I wrote a lengthy post on this topic a few years ago when I was a guest poster for the Cafe: </span><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/2011/07/25/first-experience-nursing-in-public/">http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/2011/07/25/first-experience-nursing-in-public/</a>. Check it out! As I re-read it today, it was fun for me to go back and remember what it was like to learn to nurse in public as a new mom.<br />
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Now, two years later and with two kiddos, here's the advice I'd give to moms about nursing in public:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Plan ahead</b>- consider your <a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/2013/07/28/krystynas-favorite-nursing-wear/">clothing choices</a> before leaving the house </li>
<li><b>Find supportive friends or family-</b> If you're unfamiliar with nursing in public, go to a <a href="http://lllutah.org/home/">LLL meeting</a> or hang out with other moms of new babies- they'll totally relate to what you're going through. </li>
<li><b>Consider <a href="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.com/2013/07/31/how-to-breastfeed-in-a-boba/">babywearing</a></b> - practice nursing in a carrier (ring sling, buckle carrier, wrap, etc.) at home to get more comfortable with it</li>
<li><b>Be confident-</b> You are feeding your baby the normal, healthy way, and you should be proud of that! Also, you are setting an example for other moms and future parents. You have every <a href="http://breastfeedinglaw.com/state-laws/utah/">right</a> to take care of your baby's needs wherever you are. I like a litmus test for nursing in public from a hilarious <a href="http://thefeministbreeder.com/why-subscribe/5-places-where-breastfeeding-is-certainly-inappropriate/">post</a> by The Feminist Breeder: if it would he appropriate to feed a baby a bottle in that place/situation, then it's appropriate to breastfeed your baby. </li>
<li><b>Relax</b>. Your experience will be more positive if you aren't stressed out (and your baby will probably eat better, too). </li>
<li><b>Just do it!</b> the best way to get comfortable with nursing in public is by nursing in public- it gets easier!</li>
</ul>
You got this, momma! Before you know it, breastfeeding in public will become second nature to you and you won't even stop to think about it :).<br />
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<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Shary @ Atta Mama-<a href="http://attamama.com/2013/08/breastfeeding-in-public/">Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival: Breastfeeding in Public (AKA The Curious Nursling)</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1nI">The Time No One Cared</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/08/in-public-eye.html">In The Public Eye</a></li>
<li>Krystyna @ Sweet Peas Families-<a href="http://www.sweetpeafamilies.com/2013/08/01/thoughtful-thursday-nursing-in-public/">Thoughtful Thursday: Nursing in Public</a></li>
<li>Christina @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/08/breastfeeding-in-public/">Breastfeeding in Public</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/08/breastfeeding-in-public.html">Breastfeeding: In Public</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/08/nursing-in-public.html">Nursing in Public</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Elizabeth-<a href="http://wp.me/pwUtv-CQ">Normalizing Breastfeeding by Nursing in Public</a></li>
</ul>
Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-43027039237702070122013-07-31T06:48:00.002-07:002013-07-31T19:43:58.283-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Babywearing Pics<br />
<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" height="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
<br />
<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is babywearing photos. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<hr /> <b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">Wednesday, July 31st </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">- Wordless <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_569327208" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Wednesday</span></span>-Babywearing Photos: do you babywear? Show us! Bonus points if you’re nursing </span><em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">and </em><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">babywearing!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5Ep_MKhH11enKtV_3XngT5zn9LT7z6jT-K6aoWI36QgWz6HyR3m5o3y3EvorXvZKcvGd_5JeGRM2TsILiLCLiVx_Z0CeiLtyeLnYx0ciQBkH7yPmlFD1kepQxN8ZNAjBltfAScaw9EuG/s1600/382225_875608920831_529186453_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5Ep_MKhH11enKtV_3XngT5zn9LT7z6jT-K6aoWI36QgWz6HyR3m5o3y3EvorXvZKcvGd_5JeGRM2TsILiLCLiVx_Z0CeiLtyeLnYx0ciQBkH7yPmlFD1kepQxN8ZNAjBltfAScaw9EuG/s320/382225_875608920831_529186453_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">tired girl (Maggie) after learning how to adjust the ring sling (Maya Wrap) at the Babywearing SLC meeting</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6btuW2KIN8IyGrPj_O-9t4VQtuv0fxMbv7NrWmkPIhmGRKvNFpG9EN1se7ynXOdYyfT8jTewEYrZZZsat5U437w_QA_V5P_4dw_R6T6HPyG5zQ3w3ERWShCkxMmVByiKPv29DRbdDDgo/s1600/224044_1685126535917_7244783_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6btuW2KIN8IyGrPj_O-9t4VQtuv0fxMbv7NrWmkPIhmGRKvNFpG9EN1se7ynXOdYyfT8jTewEYrZZZsat5U437w_QA_V5P_4dw_R6T6HPyG5zQ3w3ERWShCkxMmVByiKPv29DRbdDDgo/s320/224044_1685126535917_7244783_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">not my best positioning work in the Moby wrap...but Molly slept through graduation and that was awesome!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSvh1IlOsxIZ4I5zQ4fPXfc112rj3jlqfDuYRsRQyE5xAgWEATgYsoDv9RAhMoC3heZpobLeF5VAuXY8Kc0b1G39QwqdXMRXwCuKu-BglXj_cYtpX3O2hagH-T4qym1JsfmuGsY1ugczc/s1600/IMG_5271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSvh1IlOsxIZ4I5zQ4fPXfc112rj3jlqfDuYRsRQyE5xAgWEATgYsoDv9RAhMoC3heZpobLeF5VAuXY8Kc0b1G39QwqdXMRXwCuKu-BglXj_cYtpX3O2hagH-T4qym1JsfmuGsY1ugczc/s320/IMG_5271.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maggie in the Boba carrier in Victoria, BC</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDxrjGQ6t290L21pFuP3OoLCwutVtJC4coC3hupGsP8-8BGCzGARyzweYbhNClJGhSfk_3I70KGYNVdKIcZy8Wx_bLXsFzWyPvDR6uem0V4cKr5WwCNjAwVG0W22_xhcNX6UgPqf2Mvl0/s1600/P1010222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDxrjGQ6t290L21pFuP3OoLCwutVtJC4coC3hupGsP8-8BGCzGARyzweYbhNClJGhSfk_3I70KGYNVdKIcZy8Wx_bLXsFzWyPvDR6uem0V4cKr5WwCNjAwVG0W22_xhcNX6UgPqf2Mvl0/s320/P1010222.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sister, my husband, and me- all wearing Boba baby carriers in Victoria BC</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>conclusion?? I babywear almost daily but don't have enough evidence...<br />
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<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul><li>Laura @ Authentic Parenting-<a href="http://www.authenticparenting.info/2013/07/wordless-wednessday-babywearing-all.html">Babywearing All Over the World</a></li>
<li>Amy @ Wildflower Ramblings-<a href="http://wildflowerramblings.com/babywearing/babywearingoursweetgirl/">Babywearing our sweet girl</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1nY">How to Breastfeed in a Boba</a></li>
<li>Sara @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/07/wordless-wednesday-babywearing/">Wordless Wednesday - Babywearing</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/07/baby-wearing.html">”Baby” Wearing</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/07/wordless-wednesdays-babywearing.html">Wordless Wednesdays: Babywearing!</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/07/wordless-wednesday-babywearing-pics.html">Wordless Wednesday: Babywearing Pics</a></li>
<li>Krystyna @ Sweet Pea Births-<a href="http://www.sweetpeabirths.com/blog/2013/07/31/Wordless-Wednesday-Beautiful-Babywearing-.aspx">Wordless Wednesday: Beautiful Babywearing</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Jillian-<a href="http://wp.me/pwUtv-EY">Wordless Wednesday: Babywearing</a></li>
</ul>Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-20702281959218296022013-07-30T07:33:00.000-07:002013-07-30T21:28:57.270-07:00My husband, My hero<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" height="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about your partner's role in breastfeeding. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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Tuesday, July 30th - How your partner helped/hindered: was your partner a huge support or did they take a bit to get used to nursing? If you are a single parent, has anyone else in your family helped or hindered your breastfeeding efforts?<br />
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I am so grateful to my husband, Jonny, for his support in my birth and breastfeeding processes. He attended birth and breastfeeding classes with me before the birth of our daughter and was with me every step of the way through pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding. I especially appreciate how supportive he was of my breastfeeding, despite the fact that he came from a family who never nursed. He did, however, serve a 2 year LDS mission in Bolivia where women nurse constantly very openly. I'm so grateful that nursing had been so normalized for him!<br />
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Even though he had always visualized himself bonding with his babies through bottles, he has never been anything but supportive of breastfeeding. I can't count the times I've doubted myself and he has buoyed me up and encouraged me to keep going. When I'm feeding the baby, he'll make sure I have everything I need (drink, phone, etc.) and will take care of our older daughter if the baby needs quiet time.<br />
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Not only does he support me personally, but he also spreads the word to others about the benefits of normal birth and breastfeeding and I love him for it!<br />
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What about you?<br />
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<hr /> <br />
<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul><li>Sara @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/07/partner-support-support-during-weaning/">Partner Breastfeeding Support - Support During Weaning</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1np">My Husband’s Unexpected Support</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/07/my-husband-my-hero.html">My Husband, My Hero</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/07/my-home.html">My Home</a></li>
<li>Krystyna @ Sweet Pea Births-<a href="http://www.sweetpeabirths.com/blog/2013/07/30/Real-Men-Support-Breastfeeding.aspx">Real Men Support Breastfeeding</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/07/partners-in-crime.html">Partners in Crime</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Emily-<a href="http://wp.me/pwUtv-ES">Support Makes All The Difference</a></li>
</ul>Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-60931003599560937102013-07-29T08:33:00.000-07:002013-07-29T08:33:04.098-07:00Three's a crowd...tandem nursing <br />
<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
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<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about breastfeeding multiple children. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">Monday, July 29th - Breastfeeding multiples: twins (or more!), tandem nursing singletons, even nursing more than one child through your breastfeeding years. Tell us about your experience.</span></span></h2>
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My experience: </div>
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In October 2010, my first daughter was born. After working through pretty normal challenges getting started, we had a pretty easy breastfeeding relationship and she was a very enthusiastic nurser. When I got pregnant again in May 2012, she was still nursing a couple of times a day (naptime, bedtime, at night, and occasionally first thing in the morning). First trimester brought tender breasts and I would cringe a bit when she latched on, so I had to try to minimize her distractions so she wouldn't pop off and on over and over again. My supply dramatically dropped during late second trimester, so I thought that she might self-wean during this period. My enthusiastic nurser, though, had no plans of stopping. She nursed through her second birthday and through the rest of my pregnancy (I was actually grateful to have her nurse in early labor in when I was trying to get contractions to pick up...10 days after my due date). </div>
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When baby #2 was born in January 2013, I attempted to tandem nurse both girls at the same time. For me, it felt too much like three (two girls plus me) was a crowd! Since #1 was used to nursing to sleep, there wasn't a good way for me to nurse both girls laying down (and believe me, I tried a few crazy arrangements). Instead of the enjoyable bonding time, it was torture trying to get both girls quiet and asleep in that funky position. I decided that wasn't going to work out, and started making some changes, first by putting the baby to sleep in the swing and having one on one time with #1 at naptime and bedtime. Another major change: my older daughter went from nursing-to-sleep to a short nursing session before bed. At this time she also changed from sleeping in our bed to sleeping in her own bed (a twin mattress on the floor- big enough for one of us to be by her when she's having a hard time and close enough to the ground that she doesn't get hurt when she rolls out fairly often). With these two changes came a major growth moment- #1 going to sleep with dad when mom wasn't home! Now that nursing wasn't entirely connected with sleep, she cut back and back on how often she would nurse- occasionally before bed or in the middle of the night if she wakes up from a bad dream or is having a hard time. If I wasn't nursing a baby, my milk supply would probably be gone. (Weaning a toddler when you have a baby is a different experience).</div>
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I could go on for a long time as to why our experience turned out the way it did. I tried to do what was best for my kids- offering the nutrition and emotional support of nursing for as long as it was appropriate for both of us, while balancing the needs of our new baby, a tired new mom, and a growing big sister. For many, my situation would not be their choice and I hesitate putting it out there because I'm sure there are those who will judge my actions. However, looking back, I'm okay with how it's gone- I felt like the transition has been loving and gradual to try to reduce the feeling of being displaced and instead celebrate growing up.</div>
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I don't write my story to tell anyone what they should do- there's no easy answer as every family has its own unique circumstances. I write it only to offer one mom's experience. What I really want is to write what I wish someone would have said to me- </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">You are doing a great job. You are a good mom.</span></div>
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If you're struggling....Identify how you feel about nursing (positives and negatives) and come up with a plan that works for everyone.</div>
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On-demand feeding is important for building a good milk supply and for the growth of an infant who is fully breastfed. It's okay to let other things in your life slide so you can focus on caring for your baby!</div>
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Especially for toddlers/older babies: It's okay to set boundaries with breastfeeding. You don't have to be a 24 hour restaurant...unless you want to be, and then that's okay, too! </div>
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Every nursing relationship includes two people: mom and baby. Adding another person (new baby) adds one more dimension. It's your job to consider everyone's needs and make gentle decisions that are best for everyone (and don't forget yourself).</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Most of all, once you've decided what you want, find supportive people and go for it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can do it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This time will pass quickly and our little ones will be big and we'll remember these days fondly.</span></div>
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And to those of you moms who are tandem nursing: Rock On, Mama! You have my admiration. Way to go!!</div>
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To all of you moms: you're amazing. Keep up the good work! Hang in there!</div>
Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-77083386177135531022013-07-28T00:30:00.000-07:002013-07-29T11:28:46.618-07:00Nursing wardrobe<br />
<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
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<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about your favorite nursing wear. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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Sunday, July 28th - Physical support: tell us what is your favorite nursing wear and why!<br />
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When I first started nursing, I was afraid I had to buy a whole new wardrobe. I do have a few nursing bras and a couple of nursing shirts. While it can be handy to have some garments designed for nursing, I've discovered it is definitely not required. Sometimes, in fact, it can be easier to wear regular clothes.<br />
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Basically, I've discovered that any clothes can work for nursing if they fit one of two categories: ability to lift up from the bottom or the ability for breast access from the neckline. Most of my clothing fits one or both of those categories- with the exception of certain dresses or tight blouses.<br />
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If you plan on nursing sitting down, any shirt that you can lift up to allow access will work (along with a nursing bra). If you prefer to keep your midsection more covered, you can wear layers (lift the top layer, pull down the bottom layer to allow breast access). I've tried nursing tanks and never been a fan of the nursing tank with the built-in bra; they just aren't supportive enough for me. I like this idea of a <a href="http://www.babybellykelli.com/diy-nursing-tankcami-in-under-10-mins/">DIY nursing tank</a>. If you prefer to buy premade, I've heard great things about <a href="http://undercovermama.com/">Undercover Mama</a> tanks.<br />
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If you prefer more flexibility and want to be able to nurse more easily in a carrier (such as an Ergo, Boba, wrap, etc.), choose a shirt that allows you to lift a breast out of the shirt to feed a baby (stretchy, wide, or v-necks work well).<br />
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What's your favorite nursing wear??<br />
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<hr /> <br />
<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul><li>Laura @ Authentic Parenting-<a href="http://www.authenticparenting.info/2013/07/cant-live-without-nursing-bra.html">Can’t Live Without a Nursing Bra</a></li>
<li>Katy @ Mommy News and Views-<a href="http://mommynewsblog.com/physical-nursing-support-for-busty-gals">Physical Nursing Support for Busty Gals</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1nk">Target Nursing Tanks</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/07/nursing-wardrobe.html">Nursing Wardrobe</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/07/bands-bras-tanks-tees.html">Bands, Bras, Tanks & Tees</a></li>
<li>Christine @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/07/my-favourite-nursing-wear-of-course/">My Favourite Nursing Wear...Of Course</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/07/favorite-feeding-shirt.html">Favorite Feeding Shirt</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Krystyna-<a href="http://wp.me/pwUtv-DU">Krystyna’s Favorite Nursing Wear</a></li>
</ul>Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-14756612472810308442013-07-27T06:00:00.000-07:002013-07-27T10:27:38.259-07:00Go-To Resource<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
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<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about your go-to breastfeeding resource. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<strong style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1973061600" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Saturday, July 27th</span></span> </strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">- Your go-to resource: what person, book, group, etc. was your number one place to go to for help?</span><br />
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ONE resource?? That's hard! Ask me to give you a list of resources...that's easy! Maybe I'll cheat a little and give you my number one resource as I look back in time.<br />
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When I first started breastfeeding, <a href="http://www.kellymom.com/">kellymom.com </a>was my number one resource. It was an awesome middle-of-the-night "is this normal?" reliable resource. It was perfect when I was a brand new mom and not sure if my questions were dumb and too scared to ask someone in person.<br />
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As I got a bit more confidence, La Leche League groups were my next resource. More than just the facts that I could get online or from good books, I enjoyed seeing other moms and babies face to face. Hearing their struggles and successes, and seeing them feed their babies did more for normalizing breastfeeding than any book could have.<br />
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Fast forward a few years later.....At this point, I had the wonderful opportunity to become friends with Meghan Reed, who is an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) and an amazing new momma. Meghan took my childbirth classes before the birth of her baby---how awesome was it to have this sweet IBCLC in class!! She taught us all a lot.<br />
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I'll admit before my second daughter was born I figured I knew everything about breastfeeding because I had done it for more than 2 years already. The second time around was definitely easier, but I learned that every baby has it's own part in the breastfeeding relationship and each breastfeeding relationship comes with it's own unique challenges. It was SO nice to have Meghan on speed dial in those first few weeks! Everyone should be so lucky to have a friend who is an IBCLC. If you aren't that lucky, I encourage you to find one that you feel comfortable calling with questions!<br />
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p.s. Meghan can be found at <a href="http://www.meghanslactationconsulting.com/">http://www.meghanslactationconsulting.com/</a>. You can search for an IBCLC in your area here <a href="http://www.ilca.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3432">http://www.ilca.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3432</a>. Lactation consultations should now be covered by insurance--check with yours!<br />
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What's your go to resource?<br />
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<hr />
<br />
<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Katy @ Mommy News and Views-<a href="http://mommynewsblog.com/helping-other-moms-succeed">Helping Other Moms Succeed</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/07/go-to-resource.html">My Lactation Life Saver</a></li>
<li>Sara @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/07/my-lactation-life-saver/">My Lactation Life Saver</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/07/my-go-to.html">My Go-to</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/07/go-to-resources.html">The Breastfeeding Bible</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1nc">The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Mel<a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/2013/07/27/the-la-leche-league-resource/">The La Leche League Resource</a></li>
</ul>
Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-48903435519304000282013-07-26T07:53:00.002-07:002013-07-26T09:19:46.644-07:00Helping Other Moms Succeed <strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" height="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
<br />
<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about helping other moms succeed in their breastfeeding journeys. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1973061590" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Friday, July 26th</span></span> </strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">- Helping other moms succeed: have you helped any other moms with their breastfeeding journey?</span><br />
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My goal and heart-felt desire is to help moms with their breastfeeding journey before it ever starts. I teach comprehensive childbirth education classes and spend a class session talking about newborn abilities and breastfeeding. I try to give moms a realistic view of breastfeeding: it's normal, natural, easy, and amazing AND it can be difficult at times....but is totally worth it.<br />
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I try to make sure moms know the basics of having a good latch, how to have a good milk supply, deal with common issues, know when to call in an expert, and how to find support. To me, prenatal breastfeeding education is essential, because too often I talk to moms whose problems could have been prevented if they'd been given good information before birth. After birth, I try to be a resource for moms and be encouraging without judgment. Every mom needs a cheerleader!<br />
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I sincerely hope somehow I've helped moms, whether formally through my classes or participation in LLL or the Davis County Breastfeeding Coalition, or informally through my example with family and friends.<br />
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Who helped you on your journey?<br />
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<hr /> <br />
<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul><li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1n7">Why I Started This Blog</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/07/helping-others-succeed.html">Success is in the Eye of the Beholder</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/07/helping-other-moms-succeed.html">Helping Other Moms Succeed</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Christine-<a href="http://wp.me/pwUtv-DK">A helpful talk about Mahée Paiement’s breastfeeding controversy</a></li>
</ul>Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-55143964053898592672013-07-25T07:47:00.003-07:002013-07-25T19:21:42.801-07:00Breastfeeding in Special Circumstances<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
<br />
<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about breastfeeding in special circumstances. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<hr />
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<strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Thursday, July 25th - </strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">Breastfeeding in special circumstances: if you ever breastfed through an auto-immune disease, had to do an elimination diet, breastfed a baby with special needs, etc. Anything out of the realm of “normal” goes here!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;"><br />
</span> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">Well, unfortunately (or actually, really fortunately), I don't have any good personal experience with any of these special circumstances...so this post is mostly to direct you to the other awesome posts on this topic today (at the bottom).</span><br />
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I do have to say, though, while I haven't experienced these situations myself, I have known AMAZING mommas who have breastfed through severe allergies (with diet restriction), tongue-tie/lip-tie, thrush, illness, and even a wonderful mom who re-lactated after she had to wean due to a health problem. So, if you are struggling with a special circumstance, go connect with other moms who have successfully made it through your challenge. You can do it, momma! :-)<br />
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<br />
<hr />
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<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1n2">Breastfeeding with a Peanut Allergy</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/07/special-circumstances.html">Milk Machine Mama</a></li>
<li>Christine @ Momzelle-<a breastfeeding-in-special-circumstances.html="" href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/07/breastfeeding-in-special-circumstances/%E2%80%9D%3EBreastfeeding%20in%20Special%20Circumstances%3C/a%3E%3C/li%3E%3Cli%3EHailey%20@%20Birth%20Utah-%3Ca%20href=" http:="" www.birthutah.com="">Breastfeeding in Special Circumstances</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/07/stuffed-up.html%E2%80%9D%3EStuffed%20Up%3C/a%3E%3C/li%3E%3Cli%3EAnd%20of%20course%20the%20guest%20poster%20on%20the%20Breastfeeding%20Cafe%E2%80%99s%20blog%20today%20is%20Jeana-%3Ca%20href=" http:="" pwutv-dk="" wp.me="">Tongue and Lip Tie</a></li>
</ul>
Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-6802767163262788952013-07-24T06:00:00.000-07:002013-07-25T07:50:21.921-07:00Breastfeeding Photos<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
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<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is breastfeeding photos. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1548396021" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Wednesday, July 24th</span></span> </strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">- Wordless <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1548396022" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Wednesday</span></span>-Breastfeeding Photos: share pictures of you and your nursling(s)!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDznFt6-A3kkjuOOA7Saa4NCpv0VkO8aqZSKgw32Z5kzvfWJSP_pkUhdY04NUL8KSXx7mvAg7qjD_uMxykQVTnF5NXGygjRVwDSKME2EccTzj1hvQf0oc2mXJvizKMKhDWwd2Bli1ElerB/s1600/HaileynursingMolly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDznFt6-A3kkjuOOA7Saa4NCpv0VkO8aqZSKgw32Z5kzvfWJSP_pkUhdY04NUL8KSXx7mvAg7qjD_uMxykQVTnF5NXGygjRVwDSKME2EccTzj1hvQf0oc2mXJvizKMKhDWwd2Bli1ElerB/s320/HaileynursingMolly.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is 2011's World Breastfeeding Week photo shoot (by Timbra Wiist of Landslide Photography) with my first daughter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1inrh3c_gXwoVo31rf-kUk7D2jzU_G1BU9OVXfVKDqbvE_BzNZM2RthNR_LX1T9sqeqkXJq62POpv8yC0llUatZSkA8FpXNBgS214dqEChTtBveDcxDAcYbNVP_0tx7kcbnHqVmWN3KF/s1600/IMG_5271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1inrh3c_gXwoVo31rf-kUk7D2jzU_G1BU9OVXfVKDqbvE_BzNZM2RthNR_LX1T9sqeqkXJq62POpv8yC0llUatZSkA8FpXNBgS214dqEChTtBveDcxDAcYbNVP_0tx7kcbnHqVmWN3KF/s320/IMG_5271.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On vacation this past May visiting my sister's family in Victoria BC, I spent lots of time nursing my second daughter while she was in my Boba baby carrier. So convenient!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg686JjIQhTYEX_5UfJOwXaXRLC-FhbKqFTuQCWuFcodPH3NyGq-B2UGj74gOLhkdqrlk6NcYhVMLCfteCrDk1jG71a2dsdltGmIKcPYuSIbrUeekJ3x2w_7L0kMxNzDJobjAw1u8zOAdes/s1600/IMG_5356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg686JjIQhTYEX_5UfJOwXaXRLC-FhbKqFTuQCWuFcodPH3NyGq-B2UGj74gOLhkdqrlk6NcYhVMLCfteCrDk1jG71a2dsdltGmIKcPYuSIbrUeekJ3x2w_7L0kMxNzDJobjAw1u8zOAdes/s320/IMG_5356.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...and when that nursing baby fell asleep, I could continue to enjoy a walk on the beach with my husband without being afraid of waking her up! :-)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<hr />
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<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Lauren @ Hobo Mama-<a href="http://www.hobomama.com/2013/07/wordless-wednesday-breastfeeding-at-2.html">Breastfeeding at 2</a></li>
<li>Laura @ Authentic Parenting-<a href="http://www.authenticparenting.info/2013/07/wordless-wednesday-breastfeeding.html">Wordless Wednesday: Breastfeeding pictures - 5 years in review</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1mQ">My Favorite Nursing Photos</a></li>
<li>Sara @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/07/wordless-wednesday-breastfeeding-photos/">Wordless Wednesday - Breastfeeding Photos</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/07/breastfeeding-photos.html">Breastfeeding Photos</a></li>
<li>Timbra @ Bosoms and Babes-<a href="http://bosoms-and-babes.blogspot.com/2013/07/wordless-wednesday-nursing-photos.html%E2%80%9D"> Wordless Wednesday: Nursing Photos</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/07/wordless-wednesday-breastfeeding-photos.html%E2%80%9D">breastfeeding photos i love</a></li>
</ul>
Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-19437495144339536922013-07-23T07:39:00.002-07:002013-07-23T11:59:59.004-07:00Breastfeeding Myths<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
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<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about breastfeeding myths and dispelling them. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Tuesday, July 23rd </strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">- Breastfeeding myths: what’s the biggest breastfeeding myth in your opinion? Help us dispel it!</span><br />
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This is pretty basic, but I think the biggest breastfeeding myth to me is "if it's natural, it should always come naturally to all moms and babies." <br />
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Here's the deal, ladies (and gents): Breastfeeding is natural, somewhat instinctual, and definitely normal; but it is also a <i>learned behavior </i>and most of us grew up in a culture where breastfeeding is not seen or taught<i>. </i>Instead, moms hear from other moms how hard breastfeeding was and how they gave up- which does not have to be the case!<br />
<i><br />
</i> Often, once moms and babies make it through the first weeks, they will describe breastfeeding as EASY and enjoyable (with a few bumps in the road perhaps). However, in those first few sleep-deprived weeks, breastfeeding can feel difficult, overwhelming, and even painful. To make it through this time, it's critical that new moms have some accurate breastfeeding education prenatally and a wealth of resources (online and in- person: LLL, lactation consultants, helpful friends/family, supportive partner, etc.). Keep reading for posts about resources as the blogging carnival continues!<br />
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What breastfeeding myths have you heard??<br />
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<hr />
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<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Katy Rank Lev @ Mommy News and Views-<a href="http://mommynewsblog.com/breastfeeding-myths-pump-and-dump/">Breastfeeding Myths: Pump and Dump</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/07/theinfantimage.html">The infant image</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://wp.me/pDcm9-1mJ">The Spitter</a></li>
<li>Christine @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/07/the-biggest-breastfeeding-myth-is/">The Biggest Breastfeeding Myth Is...</a></li>
<li>Shary @ Atta Mama-<a href="http://attamama.com/2013/07/breastfeeding-myth/">Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival: Dispelling A Common Breastfeeding Myth</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/07/welcome-to-breastfeeding-cafe-carnival_23.html">Breastfeeding Myths</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Jasmine Jafferali-<a href="http://wp.me/pwUtv-CA">Breastfeeding Myths</a></li>
</ul>
Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-74196432801969027432013-07-22T06:58:00.002-07:002013-07-23T07:26:38.796-07:00Online Breastfeeding Support<strong><a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/blogcarnival/"><img alt="breastfeedingcafecarnival" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5194" height="200" src="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/breastfeedingcafecarnival.png" width="200" /></a>Welcome to The Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival!</strong><br />
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<br />
<em>This post was written as part of the Breastfeeding Cafe's Carnival. For more info on the Breastfeeding Cafe, go to <a href="http://www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">www.breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com</a>. For more info on the Carnival or if you want to participate, contact Claire at clindstrom2 {at} gmail {dot} com. Today's post is about websites that helped you in your breastfeeding journey. Please read the other blogs in today's carnival listed below and check back for more posts July 22nd through August 4th!</em><br />
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<em><br />
</em> <span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">I know my posts have been few and far in between, so when I got the invitation to participate in the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival I decided I'd take the challenge and share my support for breastfeeding moms! Join us and read posts from various bloggers about the day's topic, starting with:</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;"><br />
</span> <b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">Monday, July 22nd </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">- Online lifelines: which sites or forums did you go to for help and support?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;"><br />
</span> <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">Oh boy! There are a lot of amazing sites out there. Here are a few of my favorites:</span><br />
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<a href="http://kellymom.com/">KellyMom</a> - resources for just about any topic you could think of<br />
<a href="http://www.llli.org/resources.html">La Leche League International</a> - of course! lots of quality information<br />
<a href="http://www.nbci.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=section&layout=blog&id=3&Itemid=11">International Breastfeeding Centre</a> - the videos on this site are SO helpful<br />
<a href="http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT">LactMed</a> - a database to check the effects of various medications on breastfeeding moms and babies<br />
<a href="http://www.breastmilkcounts.com/educational-activities.php">BreastmilkCounts (Texas WIC)</a> - an animation to explain how to hand express milk<br />
<a href="http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/breastfeeding">Dr. Sears</a>- lots of pregnancy, parenting, and breastfeeding info<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">Really, I've loved online forums for local groups the most- it feels more intimate in a smaller setting, with moms in your own area. Some of my favorite local groups (all of which are very breastfeeding supportive) are:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;"><br />
</span> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/BabywearingSLC/">Babywearing SLC Facebook Group</a> - very supportive of breastfeeding (especially while babywearing)<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/SoggyGranolaUtah/">SoggyGranolaUtah</a> - a facebook group for moms who feel they are only kinda crunchy (no judgment here!)<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/hypnobirthing.utah/">Hypnobirthing Utah</a> - lots of topics come up, including breastfeeding<br />
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There's just a few that I've found helpful. What sites or forums have been helpful to you?? Please comment below!<br />
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<hr />
<br />
<strong>Here are more post by the Breastfeeding Cafe Carnival participants! Check back because more will be added throughout the day.</strong><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Sara @ Momzelle-<a href="http://www.momzelle.com/blog/2013/07/my-favourite-online-breastfeeding-lifelines/">My Favourite Online Breastfeeding Lifelines</a></li>
<li>Angelina @ dizzyrat-<a href="http://dizzyrat.blogspot.com/2013/07/favoriteonlineresources.html">Favorite online resources for Breastfeeding</a></li>
<li>Hailey @ Birth Utah-<a href="http://www.birthutah.com/2013/07/welcome-to-breastfeeding-cafe-carnival.html">Online Breastfeeding Support</a></li>
<li>Claire @ The Adventures of Lactating Girl-<a href="http://theadventuresoflactatinggirl.com/2013/07/22/an-ode-to-kellymom/">An Ode to Kellymom</a></li>
<li>And of course the guest poster on the Breastfeeding Cafe’s blog today is Renee-<a href="http://breastfeedingcafe.wordpress.com/2013/07/22/renees-online-lifelines/">Renee’s Online Lifelines</a></li>
</ul>
Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6223093513593592524.post-51920234873467823142013-05-01T10:47:00.003-07:002013-05-01T10:49:34.340-07:00Elisha Rose's birth story<i>Hailey's note: This couple is very dear to me. They took classes with me as I was expecting Maggie and I watched them work together and prepare for their new addition. Their birth and newborn experience was quite a ride and I'm amazed by how hard they worked in becoming parents. This is a story of love for each other and ultimate love for their new child.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>To Barb & Craig: Thanks for your honesty, sacrifice, and devotion. You amaze me and your little girl is very lucky to have you for parents.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>(The rest of this post is Barb's words)</i><br />
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It was 5:00pm on February 2<sup>nd</sup>. I was 3 days
overdue, my father who had come into town for the birth had to leave in another
2 days, and it seemed like the baby would never come. We had just gotten back
from a short walk around Ensign Peak, showing my parents some nice Utah views,
when my water broke. I thought it was discolored urine and only recognized it
as my water because it seemed to come involuntarily. Seemingly involuntary
urination had become such a common occurrence late in pregnancy that I didn’t think
anything of it at first, until it kept coming. My contractions started almost
immediately and they were fast and hard. Although we had learned in our birth
class that labor beginning with broken waters followed immediately by intense
contractions is the stuff movies and TV are made of, not real life, this was
exactly my experience. Perhaps fitting considering my obsession with movies.
And as with any clichéd movie or television script, Craig, my husband, was
playing his part as the anxious father to be, pacing and calling the doula and
the birth center. Although we were a prepared as possible, nothing could have
prepared us for how we would feel in these moments, or what lay ahead. I went
over to my dog and knelt beside her on the couch. Petting her soothed my early
contractions. Though I didn’t know it at the time, after my child was born my
interactions with her would never be the same. We were instructed to come to
the birth center at that time, which was not what we were planning on, but as
we came to learn, there is much about my birth story that is not what we were
planning on. </div>
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We arrived at the birth center around 6pm and Adrienne, my
midwife, suggested that I start in the shower. I labored there for a while,
with Craig pouring hot water over my body. The next thing I remember I was in
the Jacuzzi tub, with Craig, Marin (my doula), my mother, and Adrianna (the
birth assistant), all at my side. Time during this period of my labor was very
strange. There was a big clock on the wall that I told myself I shouldn’t look
at, but did anyway. Hours ticked away like minutes. While I was in the tub,
Marin would tell me to ride the wave of my contraction and push the pain all
the way down into my pelvis. When it stopped, she told me to enjoy the break,
take this time for myself. I alternated between feeling sweaty and chilled, and
my hair was a disheveled mess that hung around my face and over my eyes. I
refused to pull it back; the wildness of it helped me to stay in touch with my
raw and uninhibited state of being. I focused on all of my senses besides the
pain, the hum of the jets in the tub, the heat of the water, the low and loud primal
moans I let out with every contraction, the images in my head. I traveled back
to my childhood and memories I haven’t thought of in years came into my mind.
It was almost as if my life were flashing before my eyes, but slowly and within
my control. I thought mostly of my best friend, Ryan, who had passed away 2
weeks earlier. As I laid in the water on my back, I imagined floating with her
late at night in the lake across the street from my parents’ house. When she
died, I knew she would be with me during my labor and I just kept picturing
her, connecting with her. I thought of the fact that distraction from pain
lessened pain, and that at that moment, 130,000 other women around the world
were laboring with me. I thought of my child, who with every contraction, came
closer and closer to being ready to come out. This was the best part of my
labor, the part I would later treasure and romanticize. Although physically
painful, I would not trade this part of my labor for anything.</div>
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At 1:12AM , I was told to come out of the tub because
contractions had stalled. Although I had gone from 4 centimeters to 8.5 rather
quickly, I hadn’t made progress in a while and it was thought that changing
positions would move things along. I stood and held on to Craig; I was on all
fours; I was on the bed. Fluids continued to ooze out of me and everyone told
me not to be embarrassed. They didn’t have to say that; I wasn’t. I had
completely surrendered myself to the labor state and entrusted my care to the
team of support surrounding me. I was unashamed. Adrianne checked my cervix and
thought the baby was posterior, which was a huge disappointment to me because I
had worked so hard, doing pelvic tilts daily, sitting on a birth ball, forward
sitting on the couch, all to ensure that the baby was in a good position. The
last time we checked, four days earlier, baby was head down and anterior, just
the position baby had maintained throughout my pregnancy. Why at the last
minute were things different? “We had a deal!” I told the baby. Next we tried
different positions on the bed, which was extremely difficult, but the people
surrounding me offered so much support and encouragement that somehow I managed
to get there it each time. I drank herbs, Kelly Carb, Cohosh, and Cotton Root
Bark and then we tried a Rebozo technique on the bed. When they checked my
cervix again, I unfortunately had not progressed, and the baby remained
posterior. Adrienne recommended that we transfer to the hospital where I could
receive an epidural, rest, and see if more progress could be made. It was 4am
on February 3<sup>rd</sup> and I had been in natural labor for 11 hours. At
this point, this was a welcome suggestion. </div>
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We decided to go to the U Hospital, as it was our preferred
hospital, baby friendly and my condition was not considered an emergency.
Making this choice, however, meant a 25-minute car ride instead of a 3-minute
one to the closer hospital. I labored in the back of Craig’s jeep, with Marin
at my side, for 25 minutes at 4 in the morning, and Craig almost hit a deer. I
thought to myself again that this was the perfect dramatic climax to our movie.
When we arrived at the hospital I couldn’t get the epidural fast enough, but
where time seemed to fly at the Birth Center, it was the opposite at the
hospital. And once I had decided to have the pain relief, I wanted it
immediately. The first doctor we saw was headed off his shift in another hour
and he did not seem to have any appreciation or sensitivity for what I had been
trying to do at the Birth Center. His demeanor was pragmatic and cool and as he
laid out our options he included a c-section as one of them. I was
hypervigilant to this kind of hospital pressure and I immediately reacted,
letting him know that he would not talk me into a c-section. I can’t believe
it, but I actually had the presence of mind to ask that my care be switched to
the midwives and this was the best decision I made while at the hospital. The
two women who joined our team after that were incredibly sensitive and warm and
thoroughly explained to me every option each step of the way. They were
appreciative of my birth goals and the fact that my desire was the least amount
of interventions possible. Ironically, though I had spent time on a birth plan
which we really only needed in the event of a hospital transfer, we couldn’t
find it when we actually needed it. Thankfully, Craig and I had discussed our
preferences ahead of time and so when the time came for informed decisions,
Craig was amazing. How true it was that even under the pain medication, I was
in no state at all to be making decisions for myself. While I was inclined to
agree to whatever was offered, Craig asked each time what the benefits, risks,
and alternatives were to each intervention. I was so impressed with the way he
held his own in those stressful moments. </div>
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I labored for 13 more hours in the hospital, and what I
remember most about those hours are the people that surrounded me. Craig, my
mom, dad, Marin and Adrienna all stayed by my side as the hours crawled by and
we waited for my contractions to increase to an “acceptable level”. I remember
making conversation with everyone, doing anything to pass the time and keep my
mind off of the pain in my left lower back, which even the epidural did not
touch. At one point I called my dad, who had been waiting outside, into my
room. He held my hand and I wept as I told him what a good dad he was. He
kissed my arm and told me how much he loved me. He massaged my lower back where
it hurt and joked that he thought he was done with this – he did the same thing
for my mom when she was in labor with me. I remember at another point that he
and Craig were watching golf in the room, and then watching my contractions on
this machine I was hooked up to. I couldn’t even feel them anymore, which was
strange to me. They turned it into a game, as they could see the strength of
the contractions of the other women in labor in other rooms, and they cheered
for me to “beat” the others. </div>
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My time in the hospital was defined by waiting, and piece by
piece giving up the birth that I had envisioned. We decided that I needed
Pitocin to get my contractions going again, and this was followed by a monitor
inserted into my cervix to measure the strength of the contractions. The pain
in my lower back was considerable and I found myself pushing the pain relief
button as much as I could. None of the tools I had found useful at the birth
center were helpful anymore as I laid numb in the hospital bed. I prayed for it
to all be over soon. Finally, the midwife I had made a significant emotional
connection, Christine, to told me tenderly that my baby’s heartrate was slowing
down and that my cervix was swelling. My baby was transverse and had not made
any progress in 13 hours. She told me that a c-section was her suggestion at
this point, and my face wrinkled as I knew this was inescapable at this point.
She seemed to cry with me as she said she knew this was not what I wanted but
that it was necessary. I was exhausted and had given up everything I had wanted
thusfar. I couldn’t believe that after everything I had been through, it had
come to this, but I trusted that this was the only option left and I wanted it
to be over. Craig said, “Let’s meet our baby” and we conceded to the surgery. </div>
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I had wanted my mom in the room for my baby’s birth, and I
was overjoyed to have the anesthesiologist permit my request of allowing her in
the operating room for my surgery. We said our good-byes to Marin, whose role
in my birth concluded with the c-section, as she could not come into the OR. I
thanked her profusely and she did the same, for allowing her to be a part of
our experience. She said multiple times that our birth was one of the most
amazing and powerful births she had ever had the privilege of being a part
of. Although actually I barely know her,
she was an integral part of the most intimate and powerful experience of my
life. I will forever feel connected to this woman. After Marin left, we all put
scrubs on, took some pictures and proceeded to the place where my baby would
come into the world. I looked up at the lamp above the operating table and it
was almost a mirror. I thought to myself that I could covertly watch the
surgery if I wanted to. I couldn’t decide if I wanted to. The midwives joined
us and Christine agreed to hold up a mirror when the baby came, at my request.
So glad that in my drugged up, exhausted, emotional state, I thought to ask for
this. The entire procedure took only 20 minutes, I’m told. My mom watched the
entire thing; Craig chose not to, instead holding my hand. I felt a weight
lifted off my torso and they held up a big beautiful baby, who started crying
immediately. The first thing I said was “it’s a boy!” because I will admit I
was looking straight at the genitals, so anxious at this point to know whether
we were having a son or a daughter. I was already convinced we were having a
son, even before I saw the baby. Craig and my mom both said, somewhat
hesitantly, “no, it’s a girl”. I realized that she was so swollen I thought she
had a scrotum, and when it hit us that I had just given birth to a daughter,
all three of us burst into tears of happiness. They took her away for a moment
to examine her, and then placed her on my chest, so we could have our
skin-to-skin contact. I touched her forehead with my lips and felt the softest
skin I have ever felt. They had to take her away again, because apparently she
was struggling to breath a little. I asked Craig to go with her, because I
didn’t want her to be alone. He would tell me later that, because he knew how
important skin-to-skin was to me, he took off his shirt and did skin to skin
with our baby before he let them examine or test her, or whatever it was they
were doing. This was the first of many acts as a father that would impress me
so much about the man I loved. My mom stayed with me while they sewed me up,
and I slept for the first time since I went into labor. </div>
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The next thing I remember we were back in the labor and
delivery room and they were bringing our daughter in. It makes me very sad that
the moments and even days and weeks following this are blurry to me. In the
beginning this was due to the anesthesia I was given. While I have to keep
reminding myself on the one hand that had surgery not been an option, our
daughter may have died inside me, along with me, I still mourn the loss of the
birth picture I had in my mind. I imagined bringing her into the world through
my body, watching her emerge and maybe catching her myself, and bringing her
directly to my chest and holding her there for as long as I wanted. I must have
imagined this moment hundreds of time, each time I did my prenatal stretching
and perinatal massage, every time I struggled to get to sleep at night and felt
my child dancing inside of me. I imagined nursing immediately and enjoying her
early state of quiet alertness, bonding. I have a foggy memory of nursing her
for the first time and then of talking to my brother and sister in law via
skype. I do remember Craig saying to me, “Do you want to tell your parents her
name?” I said to my parents “this is Elisha Rose”. I explained that the
spelling was with an E, and that her middle name was in honor of Ryan. I wish I
could remember more about those first moments. </div>
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After I gave birth, time changed again, this time becoming
one long, continuous day that lasted for weeks.
Our first weeks with Elisha were in some ways more traumatic than my
labor and delivery. I think that ever since her birth I have been trying to
make up for what didn’t happen. Just like her birth, I had ideas planned for
how I would care for her in her first few weeks. I would nurse on demand,
co-sleep, baby-wear, all in accordance with the idea of the “4<sup>th</sup> trimester”
and with attachment parenting principles. Even if we didn’t have the delivery I
wanted, I intended to bond with her in other ways now that she was here. I
hadn’t planned on an incision in my abdomen that would make it difficult to sit
up on my own, among other things, along with an even deeper emotional wound
that left me feeling empty and broken, and in which I found in difficult to
connect the baby in my arms with the life I had felt inside me for 10 months.
Elisha taught me, with my labor and with the weeks following, that even the
best laid plans can be broken and that there are some things you can’t control,
even if you try really, really hard and do everything “right”. </div>
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None of the plans I made panned out the way I had hoped.
After day 1 of her life, Elisha cried constantly. It was the kind of cries that
make you want to crawl out of your skin and melt into a puddle. In the
beginning I had the energy to stick with it and told myself it was just gas or
I just had to nurse her again or she had a diaper rash. I nursed so often that
90% of my meals were spoon fed to me by Craig. After a while her intense cries
began to paralyze me and I found myself crying along with her. I would give her
to Craig, who became a master at soothing her. This was a double-edged sword
for me, because while on the one hand I was happy someone could make her feel
better, on the other I felt guilty that it wasn’t me. Guilt seemed to define me
in that first month, likely stemming from the fact that I found it difficult to
accept on an emotional level that the c-section wasn’t somehow my fault. The
idea that it was simply out of my control was unfathomable to me. We made
countless visits to the pediatrician in the first month. Elisha’s weight was
too low and so we had to be extra vigilant about the number of wet and dirty
diapers. We began trying different remedies for gas for her, certain that this
was what caused her to scream so intensely. We devised a tracking system for
each time I nursed, tracking the length of each feeding, which breast it was
on, and the medications both Elisha and I were taking. This alone was
exhausting. Having to do math at 3am while on zero sleep was not part of what I
had signed up for. At about week 3 we were diagnosed with thrush/yeast. More
medications for both of us, more dietary supplements. I tried giving up dairy
for a few days to see if she had a milk allergy. Nothing helped. Throughout
this ordeal I often marveled at the parallel processes my daughter and I were
experiencing together. Both of us depended on others to feed us, both of us had
lives that were defined entirely by eating, sleeping and pooping. (I was taking
two different stool softeners multiple times a day, another fun perk of
childbirth.) Both of us had yeast. Both of us were crying constantly. I even
developed a diaper rash due to wearing those giant maxi pads 24/7. I used her
Desitin and it cleared up pretty quickly. Perhaps the most striking similarity
was that Elisha and I both had mothers that were worried about us and constantly
trying to sooth us. I even asked mine to stay an extra 10 days past when she
was scheduled to leave. </div>
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After 4 weeks of nights and days that ran together, the
pediatrician suggested that Elisha was not getting enough calories and that we
should probably supplement with formula temporarily. Another way for me to feel
inadequate as a mother, I wept at the thought that despite my best efforts I
could not provide enough food for my baby. And I could not get away from the
idea that this too, was somehow my fault. Once we began supplementing, Elisha
turned into a different baby. She slept better, became less fussy and her
“freak-outs” dwindled significantly. However, now that were supplementing, my
milk supply was really in jeopardy. We had already been meeting with a
lactation consultant, and she gave me a plan for how to increase my milk
supply. Among other things, more pills were added to my daily regimen, along
with three cups of mother’s milk tea a day. The process of increasing my supply
required nursing as much as possible, supplementing with formula following each
feeding (the pediatrician’s request), and then pumping after that. This also
included administering her yeast drops four times a day, along with any
gas/intestinal PRNs we wanted. I was driving myself crazy trying to do it all
perfectly, and with an infant, who doesn’t always go to sleep or stay calm after
each feeding, it was impossible. I felt I had reached my breaking point when it
was suggested to me that Elisha might have a lip and tongue tie that had
impacted her nursing. I was tired of chasing down the problem and tired of
people offering conflicting suggestions. I wanted so badly for things to be
better, and with sleep deprivation having robbed me of my executive function, I
lost the ability to think critically. I tried to incorporate every suggestion I
received. We got several opinions on Elisha’s lip/tongue tie and I did some of
my own research as well, while nursing her all hours of the morning. We decided
to have the procedure done since there seemed to be virtually no down-side,
other than the fact that it may make no difference in her nursing. </div>
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Since the lip/tongue tie procedure Elisha has had a better
latch and has continued to improve in her good spirits. I am continuing to work
on increasing my supply, but it wasn’t until my midwife gave me permission to
just relax and get some more sleep that I really began to feel myself come back
again and resumed some sense of normalcy. Elisha was born on February 3<sup>rd</sup>
and it is now March 25<sup>th</sup>. The snow is melting in the valley now and
for the past week, we have felt ourselves turning a corner here. Her moments of
wakeful peacefulness increase everyday, as do her smiles. I am working hard to
increase my milk supply but I’m also prioritizing sleep and just enjoying my
daughter. I admit that this is partially because I was reminded that lack of
sleep impacts milk supply, but also because I am remembering that I need to
care for myself adequately if I am to be the type of mother I want to be, and also
because <i>I</i> deserve it. Even though it
kills me each time we give Elisha a bottle of formula, I remind myself that I
am doing this because I am a good mom. It’s what she needs and sometimes it’s
what <i>I</i> need in order to take good
care of myself. I try to also remind myself that how good of a mother I am is
not solely dependent on my ability to breastfeed, that there is so much more to
my relationship with my daughter. I treasure those moments now when she has
finished eating and we smile and look at each other, when I nurse her side by
side in bed and we are skin-to-skin, belly-to-belly, connected physically once
again. The challenges we had during her delivery and in the first 6 weeks of
her life will I am sure be a distant memory when we reach the next challenge
and will for sure pale in comparison to the parenting tests we have yet to
encounter. I think of this time as my first reminder as a parent of the
important lessons I can never forget. Nothing is perfect, nothing is exactly as
planned, and nothing is completely controllable. In spite of all of this, I
know I’ll never regret the decision to be a mother and I’ll treasure all of our
moments together. Imperfect, spontaneous and beautiful. </div>
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Hailey @ Birth Utahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754723821527983082noreply@blogger.com1