Yes, it's true. I haven't posted for eons.
But I have been living it up with my little pal.
A good excuse, I think.
Ruby's 7 months plus now, and about to celebrate her first Christmas...
So, to everyone -
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
My Cloth Diapering Godsend
We made the decision to cloth diaper our daughter about six months or so before she was born... which was the minimum amount of time I needed to research and learn all I could about different kinds of cloth diapers, how they work and how to care for them.
(You can read about some of my cloth diaper findings here and here and here.)
Early on in my research, I was fortunate enough to happen upon this post, all about flushable liners like the ones pictured here by Bummis
.
I love these liners because they are very soft against Ruby's skin, and they act as a little barrier between her bum and the diaper, so they end up keeping the diaper nearly spotless. My husband and I agree: they rock. They make life easy as pie.
Unfortunately, as far as I can tell, Bummis liners are not available here in the Pioneer Valley (of course).
You can order them online, or look around locally for another brand. A Child's Garden and Cradle both carry liners, I believe, but I would make sure they are soft. (I got some liners a while back at A Child's Garden and I felt that although they were more substantial for holding poo, they felt way too rough!)
In addition to using the glory and wonder that is flushable liners, we also did this hook up of a DIY cloth diaper sprayer to our guest bathroom toilet.
We have used it plenty times, but as our daughter has gotten older (she's nearly 6 months old!) and since she has started solid foods, we have used disposable liners more and more, and the need for the sprayer has become less and less.
In fact, the liners protect the diapers so much that I haven't used the sprayer in at least a month. Amazing!
(You can read about some of my cloth diaper findings here and here and here.)
Early on in my research, I was fortunate enough to happen upon this post, all about flushable liners like the ones pictured here by Bummis.I love these liners because they are very soft against Ruby's skin, and they act as a little barrier between her bum and the diaper, so they end up keeping the diaper nearly spotless. My husband and I agree: they rock. They make life easy as pie.
Unfortunately, as far as I can tell, Bummis liners are not available here in the Pioneer Valley (of course).
You can order them online, or look around locally for another brand. A Child's Garden and Cradle both carry liners, I believe, but I would make sure they are soft. (I got some liners a while back at A Child's Garden and I felt that although they were more substantial for holding poo, they felt way too rough!)
In addition to using the glory and wonder that is flushable liners, we also did this hook up of a DIY cloth diaper sprayer to our guest bathroom toilet.
We have used it plenty times, but as our daughter has gotten older (she's nearly 6 months old!) and since she has started solid foods, we have used disposable liners more and more, and the need for the sprayer has become less and less.
In fact, the liners protect the diapers so much that I haven't used the sprayer in at least a month. Amazing!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Recent Discoveries: Easthampton & Beyond
Ruby has been more and more active and awake during the day lately, leaving me with fewer free minutes to write. She's sleeping now, so I wanted to take this opportunity to spread the word about a few recent discoveries...
The Easthampton Family Center* - I finally visited the EFC for a informal, parent-run play group and it was great! Very low key and relaxed.
The space is pretty cool - it's shared with Flywheel so there's a stage on one end, but otherwise it's an open space w/ toys and mats out where kids can play and have fun. Ruby and I hung out with some fellow baby folks on a baby mat, so it's definitely a place for all ages.
*Just a note - the Easthampton Family Center's new location is 43 Main St in the Old Town Hall, Easthampton, MA. Their website lists their old location - ignore that!
Mother Goose (and other activities) at the Lilly Library - This is just super cute. The Mother Goose series on Fridays has stories, movement and songs for young ages. We enjoyed it last Friday and it's made its way onto our regular calendar.
All-4-Kids Children's Consignment Sale - This is something I learned about when we were at the play group at the Easthampton Family Center. Look at that: socializing = sharing information and supporting your community!
Anyway, the sale is this weekend and I'm completely psyched about checking it out. You should, too!
The Easthampton Family Center* - I finally visited the EFC for a informal, parent-run play group and it was great! Very low key and relaxed.
The space is pretty cool - it's shared with Flywheel so there's a stage on one end, but otherwise it's an open space w/ toys and mats out where kids can play and have fun. Ruby and I hung out with some fellow baby folks on a baby mat, so it's definitely a place for all ages.
*Just a note - the Easthampton Family Center's new location is 43 Main St in the Old Town Hall, Easthampton, MA. Their website lists their old location - ignore that!
Mother Goose (and other activities) at the Lilly Library - This is just super cute. The Mother Goose series on Fridays has stories, movement and songs for young ages. We enjoyed it last Friday and it's made its way onto our regular calendar.
All-4-Kids Children's Consignment Sale - This is something I learned about when we were at the play group at the Easthampton Family Center. Look at that: socializing = sharing information and supporting your community!
Anyway, the sale is this weekend and I'm completely psyched about checking it out. You should, too!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Midwives & Pediatricians in the Pioneer Valley
Today was Ruby's four month appointment. She's fantastic and healthy and was a super duper all star when getting her shots. And once again, I was so pleased with the care of everyone in her pediatrician's office.
Inspired by this, I figured I'd spread the word about the great medical care we've experienced having this baby.
I am, by no means, a baby or doctor expert. But I am a regular, normal person who gave birth to a beautiful girl four months ago at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton, MA.
She was delivered by two midwives from Cooley Dickinson Center for Midwifery Care. I love, love, love them, and it was an awesome birth.
We live in Easthampton, and so looked for a pediatrician in Easthampton. Not knowing anyone around here, I went onto the Masslive Parent to Parent Message Boards and asked for a recommendation. Although we liked her at first, that doctor ended up being a huge mistake (and unfortunately, we didn't realize it until after we'd had some very emotionally harrowing first few weeks of her care for our newborn), and so we looked for another pediatrician.
Northampton Pediatrics came highly recommended. But they weren't as close as we wanted.
Then I heard about Hampshire Pediatrics, in Easthampton. We switched to them when Ruby was about three weeks old, and haven't looked back. We see Dr. Jen and have seen Dr. Sue as well, and they are both just wonderful. Very thorough and supportive and low key and normal and great.
I'm sure there are plenty of other wonderful medical professionals in this area, but these are the ones we are very happy to have!
Inspired by this, I figured I'd spread the word about the great medical care we've experienced having this baby.
I am, by no means, a baby or doctor expert. But I am a regular, normal person who gave birth to a beautiful girl four months ago at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton, MA.
She was delivered by two midwives from Cooley Dickinson Center for Midwifery Care. I love, love, love them, and it was an awesome birth.
We live in Easthampton, and so looked for a pediatrician in Easthampton. Not knowing anyone around here, I went onto the Masslive Parent to Parent Message Boards and asked for a recommendation. Although we liked her at first, that doctor ended up being a huge mistake (and unfortunately, we didn't realize it until after we'd had some very emotionally harrowing first few weeks of her care for our newborn), and so we looked for another pediatrician.
Northampton Pediatrics came highly recommended. But they weren't as close as we wanted.
Then I heard about Hampshire Pediatrics, in Easthampton. We switched to them when Ruby was about three weeks old, and haven't looked back. We see Dr. Jen and have seen Dr. Sue as well, and they are both just wonderful. Very thorough and supportive and low key and normal and great.
I'm sure there are plenty of other wonderful medical professionals in this area, but these are the ones we are very happy to have!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Baby Music Classes in the Pioneer Valley
Whether it's been me singing to her, her father's ipod playing Czech heavy metal (he's from Prague, so that's not as random as it sounds), or the music of her Seahorse, Ruby has always seemed to enjoy music of all kinds.
Because of this, I've had my eye out for baby music classes in Northampton, Easthampton, Amherst or anywhere in the Pioneer Valley.
After a slow summer, I'm suddenly seeing baby music classes everywhere!
The Jones Library in Amherst will offer "Sing with Your Baby" on Tuesdays at 10:30am, beginning September 14 until November 16, 2010.
Although it's not (yet) posted on their site, I *heard* the Lilly Library in Florence also offers a baby music class, also on Tuesdays (at 11am I think), starting up again in September.
Finally, I see on Cradle's calendar that they will have Kindermusik classes on Saturdays, starting September 25th and running for 6 weeks. The classes are broken down by age, and are not free. Check out their site for details.
Ruby and I will definitely be checking these classes out, and I hope you and your little one will too!
And please let me know if you find out about any others!
Because of this, I've had my eye out for baby music classes in Northampton, Easthampton, Amherst or anywhere in the Pioneer Valley.
After a slow summer, I'm suddenly seeing baby music classes everywhere!
The Jones Library in Amherst will offer "Sing with Your Baby" on Tuesdays at 10:30am, beginning September 14 until November 16, 2010.
Although it's not (yet) posted on their site, I *heard* the Lilly Library in Florence also offers a baby music class, also on Tuesdays (at 11am I think), starting up again in September.
Finally, I see on Cradle's calendar that they will have Kindermusik classes on Saturdays, starting September 25th and running for 6 weeks. The classes are broken down by age, and are not free. Check out their site for details.
Ruby and I will definitely be checking these classes out, and I hope you and your little one will too!
And please let me know if you find out about any others!
Monday, August 16, 2010
Washing Cloth Diapers
Because my goal here is to simply create one space where you may find all kinds baby and parenting related things in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, I often don't feel the need to write a bunch of wordy wordiness, but instead just direct you to a resource that you might find helpful.
Therefore, I'd like to share the best instructions I've come across for washing Cloth Diapers - on the Nicki's Diapers blog.
I've done A LOT of research on Cloth Diapers, so believe me, I really do feel these are easy to understand and very direct, which is great because washing cloth diapers is what I think scares people away from cloth diapering all together.
I hope this will help anyone who had any doubts or questions about washing cloth diapers!
Therefore, I'd like to share the best instructions I've come across for washing Cloth Diapers - on the Nicki's Diapers blog.
I've done A LOT of research on Cloth Diapers, so believe me, I really do feel these are easy to understand and very direct, which is great because washing cloth diapers is what I think scares people away from cloth diapering all together.
I hope this will help anyone who had any doubts or questions about washing cloth diapers!
Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child
A friend told me about the radio show "Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child," on 93.9 The River on Saturday mornings from 8am-10am. I love it! Ruby loves it! They play great music for kids and their adults!
And luckily, they have online audio archives for those of us who aren't up/active from 8-10am, and for those of you who aren't local.
Listen and enjoy!
And luckily, they have online audio archives for those of us who aren't up/active from 8-10am, and for those of you who aren't local.
Listen and enjoy!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga
Back when I was still pregnant, I wrote about prenatal yoga in this area. Since then, I've found several resources for both prenatal AND postnatal yoga here in the Pioneer Valley and wanted to share them.
The prenatal yoga classes I ended up going to were through Cooley Dickinson Hospital (at the Amherst location; there's one in Northampton as well). The classes were led by Arden and were gentle, relaxing and very informative about all things pregnancy and birth related, to boot. It was in one of those classes where I first felt my daughter move!
I feel it is quite difficult to find sufficient info on the internet for Cooley Dickinson classes, so this is kind of a rigmarole, but for Prenatal classes you can click here to view the calendar (then click on Prenatal Yoga - it will give some info & tell you to the number to call for registration).
Now that Ruby's here, I'm looking for us to go to yoga together. We haven't gone yet, but in my looking I've found a few likely candidates:
Yoga Sanctuary in Northampton offers pre and postnatal, baby-friendly classes. I know people who have been very pleased with the prenatal classes here.
Vega Yoga in Holyoke also offers an "Infant-friendly Yoga" class that doesn't seem to involve the baby, but the pre-crawler is welcomed there.
Cooley Dickinson Hospital offers Momma & Baby Yoga on Mondays and Wednesdays (again in Amherst and Northampton). This class is the only option I've found that includes the baby in the description: "Fun and therapeautic movement for baby" so it seems like a great option for us!
I'm sure there's more out there, but these can get you started!
The prenatal yoga classes I ended up going to were through Cooley Dickinson Hospital (at the Amherst location; there's one in Northampton as well). The classes were led by Arden and were gentle, relaxing and very informative about all things pregnancy and birth related, to boot. It was in one of those classes where I first felt my daughter move!
I feel it is quite difficult to find sufficient info on the internet for Cooley Dickinson classes, so this is kind of a rigmarole, but for Prenatal classes you can click here to view the calendar (then click on Prenatal Yoga - it will give some info & tell you to the number to call for registration).
Now that Ruby's here, I'm looking for us to go to yoga together. We haven't gone yet, but in my looking I've found a few likely candidates:
Yoga Sanctuary in Northampton offers pre and postnatal, baby-friendly classes. I know people who have been very pleased with the prenatal classes here.
Vega Yoga in Holyoke also offers an "Infant-friendly Yoga" class that doesn't seem to involve the baby, but the pre-crawler is welcomed there.
Cooley Dickinson Hospital offers Momma & Baby Yoga on Mondays and Wednesdays (again in Amherst and Northampton). This class is the only option I've found that includes the baby in the description: "Fun and therapeautic movement for baby" so it seems like a great option for us!
I'm sure there's more out there, but these can get you started!
MOMMA & BABY YOGA CLASS
We haven't taken it yet, but when searching for a Mama & Baby Yoga class in the Pioneer Valley, this sounds like a great one! Ruby and I definitely plan to take it soon.
I wanted to share this information, but couldn't find it online, so this is copy & pasted from the email info I get:
MOMMA & BABY YOGA CLASS
On-Going class
Bring your baby! From 6 – 7 weeks old up to experienced crawlers welcome.
Get back in shape, have fun with your baby, and connect with other parents.
• Center through breathing and awareness
• Reduce stress
• Get relief from aches and pains due to nursing and poor posture
• Recondition abdominals and pelvic floor
• Recover from rigors of childbirth
• Fun and therapeutic movement for baby
• Stay strong and centered through demands of childrearing
You can linger an additional 15 minutes at the end of class. In that time, we are happy to do poses with you that you might have missed because you were busy with your baby.
Om Shanti – Arden and Corinne
*************************************************************
PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
Special Note: PLEASE PRE-REGISTER BY THE SATURDAY BEFORE YOU WOULD LIKE TO START YOUR 1ST CLASS
When you pre-register, leave your phone number and the dates (one or all) you are planning to attend. We reserve the right to cancel class if there are (4) four or less students pre-registered.
If you can’t make class for an unexpected reason,
please call or email your teacher the day before to let her know
COST: $13 each class OR $44 for four classes. Financial Aid is available.
Bring mat, baby blanket, toys and whatever else you feel is necessary.
Classes are offered every month continuously. The schedule below is a sample of dates.
Mondays in Northampton
at Cooley Dickinson Hospital
10:15 – 11:30
AUGUST 9 in Childbirth Conf. Room
AUGUST 2 & 16 in Conf. Room B
No Class Aug 23, 30 & Sept 6
Pre-register CALL or EMAIL: ARDEN
yoga@rcn.com
585-8990
Park at the main entrance and please use free valet.
Classes in Conference Room B
Take the stork elevator to lowest floor.
Walk straight ahead.
Class in Childbirth Conference Room
Take the stork elevator to the top floor (1)
Directly across from the elevator.
Wednesdays in Amherst
170 University Drive, CDH outpatient building across from CVS and Big Y.
10:30 – 11:45
AUGUST 4, 11, 18 & 25
Pre-register
CALL or EMAIL: CORINNE mailto:shraddha@galaxy-usa.net
253-4817
Meets in the Community Room
on the top floor.
If using front entrance, walk upstairs.
If using back entrance, take elevator to top floor and go to the opposite end of building
from Hampshire OB/GYN)
I wanted to share this information, but couldn't find it online, so this is copy & pasted from the email info I get:
MOMMA & BABY YOGA CLASS
On-Going class
Bring your baby! From 6 – 7 weeks old up to experienced crawlers welcome.
Get back in shape, have fun with your baby, and connect with other parents.
• Center through breathing and awareness
• Reduce stress
• Get relief from aches and pains due to nursing and poor posture
• Recondition abdominals and pelvic floor
• Recover from rigors of childbirth
• Fun and therapeutic movement for baby
• Stay strong and centered through demands of childrearing
You can linger an additional 15 minutes at the end of class. In that time, we are happy to do poses with you that you might have missed because you were busy with your baby.
Om Shanti – Arden and Corinne
*************************************************************
PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
Special Note: PLEASE PRE-REGISTER BY THE SATURDAY BEFORE YOU WOULD LIKE TO START YOUR 1ST CLASS
When you pre-register, leave your phone number and the dates (one or all) you are planning to attend. We reserve the right to cancel class if there are (4) four or less students pre-registered.
If you can’t make class for an unexpected reason,
please call or email your teacher the day before to let her know
COST: $13 each class OR $44 for four classes. Financial Aid is available.
Bring mat, baby blanket, toys and whatever else you feel is necessary.
Classes are offered every month continuously. The schedule below is a sample of dates.
Mondays in Northampton
at Cooley Dickinson Hospital
10:15 – 11:30
AUGUST 9 in Childbirth Conf. Room
AUGUST 2 & 16 in Conf. Room B
No Class Aug 23, 30 & Sept 6
Pre-register CALL or EMAIL: ARDEN
yoga@rcn.com
585-8990
Park at the main entrance and please use free valet.
Classes in Conference Room B
Take the stork elevator to lowest floor.
Walk straight ahead.
Class in Childbirth Conference Room
Take the stork elevator to the top floor (1)
Directly across from the elevator.
Wednesdays in Amherst
170 University Drive, CDH outpatient building across from CVS and Big Y.
10:30 – 11:45
AUGUST 4, 11, 18 & 25
Pre-register
CALL or EMAIL: CORINNE mailto:shraddha@galaxy-usa.net
253-4817
Meets in the Community Room
on the top floor.
If using front entrance, walk upstairs.
If using back entrance, take elevator to top floor and go to the opposite end of building
from Hampshire OB/GYN)
Monday, August 9, 2010
Elizabeth Mitchell
Ruby and I are out of town, but in the meantime, here's a great music recommendation!
A lovely friend gave me this CD of Elizabeth Mitchell's children's music, and I haven't been able to stop listening to it. I seriously love it.
This song, "Little Bird, Little Bird," is so precious. I've even started calling Ruby my "sugar lump"!
Enjoy!
This song, "Little Bird, Little Bird," is so precious. I've even started calling Ruby my "sugar lump"!
Enjoy!
Sunday, August 1, 2010
World Breastfeeding Week
Today marks the beginning of World Breastfeeding Week!
You know what I'm doing to celebrate? Weaning my baby. Ha! That's right - I'm sticking it to the (breastfeeding wo)man!
Remember back when I discussed my breastfeeding issues? In a nutshell, my daughter didn't latch on properly to begin with (because of her own in utero, self-soothing, tongue sucking habit) which led to a low supply for me, which never got better, despite all and every attempt. So, from early on we've supplemented with formula (through a bottle) and I knew that one day she'd reject the breast and only want the bottle. I've mentally and emotionally prepared myself for this for a long time, and obviously wanted to prolong the breastfeeding as much as possible.
About a week ago she started refusing the breast during the day. I tried, but there was crying, screaming, general freaking out. This has continued for a week, and now she only nurses at night, and those feedings are getting shorter and shorter. I don't know if she's getting impatient or I'm just not producing as much (likely) or fast enough for her, or what... but our nursing days are clearly about to end.
But you know what? Today she turned 3 months. That was a goal I wanted to reach in our breastfeeding relationship, and we did it. And I'm so, so thankful.
And even though everyone knows, or thinks, breastfeeding is best, I have been so humbled by this experience. I know that it doesn't always work out, and there's nothing wrong with bottle and formula feeding.
There is so much pressure (especially in this area) to breastfeed, that I feel there's no room for anyone else. One socializing option Ruby and I had was to go to breastfeeding clinics and groups around here, and I decided not to, because I feel like people might judge me. I hope I'm wrong, and I considered going, but right when I did is when Ruby started to prefer the bottle (I don't know if I'd consider this weaning, or baby-led weaning or what?). So I've gone to other groups instead.
Anyway, whether you breastfeed or formula feed, good for you for giving your baby whatever nourishment that baby needs - that's all the matters!
You know what I'm doing to celebrate? Weaning my baby. Ha! That's right - I'm sticking it to the (breastfeeding wo)man!
Remember back when I discussed my breastfeeding issues? In a nutshell, my daughter didn't latch on properly to begin with (because of her own in utero, self-soothing, tongue sucking habit) which led to a low supply for me, which never got better, despite all and every attempt. So, from early on we've supplemented with formula (through a bottle) and I knew that one day she'd reject the breast and only want the bottle. I've mentally and emotionally prepared myself for this for a long time, and obviously wanted to prolong the breastfeeding as much as possible.
About a week ago she started refusing the breast during the day. I tried, but there was crying, screaming, general freaking out. This has continued for a week, and now she only nurses at night, and those feedings are getting shorter and shorter. I don't know if she's getting impatient or I'm just not producing as much (likely) or fast enough for her, or what... but our nursing days are clearly about to end.
But you know what? Today she turned 3 months. That was a goal I wanted to reach in our breastfeeding relationship, and we did it. And I'm so, so thankful.
And even though everyone knows, or thinks, breastfeeding is best, I have been so humbled by this experience. I know that it doesn't always work out, and there's nothing wrong with bottle and formula feeding.
There is so much pressure (especially in this area) to breastfeed, that I feel there's no room for anyone else. One socializing option Ruby and I had was to go to breastfeeding clinics and groups around here, and I decided not to, because I feel like people might judge me. I hope I'm wrong, and I considered going, but right when I did is when Ruby started to prefer the bottle (I don't know if I'd consider this weaning, or baby-led weaning or what?). So I've gone to other groups instead.
Anyway, whether you breastfeed or formula feed, good for you for giving your baby whatever nourishment that baby needs - that's all the matters!
The Baby Community in the Pioneer Valley
I finally got my act together last week and got the hell out of the house in Easthampton, and out into the baby community of the Pioneer Valley!
We ventured into neighboring Northampton and Hadley for our baby events last week. Now, I had originally considered baby-oriented happenings on here a couple weeks ago and then procrastinated and kept to myself. But no longer!
First, I went on to meetup.com (what would we do without the internet??) and looked up baby and parent groups in the area. I found three and requested to join all of them. I heard back from two (both seem to be more "official" mommy and me groups) that I had to attend one meetup before I'd be allowed access to the page and events.
So, last Saturday Ruby and I headed out and to Barnes and Noble in Hadley, for story time. Although this event is open to the public, the Amherst Parents Group folks were getting together there as well. We met some very nice parents and kids, ranging from 6 months (Ruby was the youngest) to about 4 years old. It was great, and I am excited to go to another meetup with this group (there seems to be a get together nearly every day!)!
The next day I consulted my Macaroni Kid email and saw that on Monday mornings there's "Tummy Time" at the Forbes Library in Northampton. We knew that the Easthampton Family Center also had an informal summer play group at Nonotuck Park on Monday mornings, but because the Tummy Time at Forbes was aimed specifically at non-crawlers/walkers, I figured we'd meet babies more in Ruby's age group, as opposed to toddlers. And we did! Another successful outing!
This week Ruby and I are going out of town on Thursday (to NYC so Ruby can get in touch with her roots for the first time!) but we plan to definitely go to Tummy Time again tomorrow, and on Tuesday we will either go to Lilly Library in Florence for morning storytime (I looked at their website and couldn't find the details, but if I hear more through word of mouth I'll post it here) or to the "New Mom's Circle" at Cradle at 1pm.
It's just so nice that now that we are out and about, we have lots of great options. I love this area!
We ventured into neighboring Northampton and Hadley for our baby events last week. Now, I had originally considered baby-oriented happenings on here a couple weeks ago and then procrastinated and kept to myself. But no longer!
First, I went on to meetup.com (what would we do without the internet??) and looked up baby and parent groups in the area. I found three and requested to join all of them. I heard back from two (both seem to be more "official" mommy and me groups) that I had to attend one meetup before I'd be allowed access to the page and events.
So, last Saturday Ruby and I headed out and to Barnes and Noble in Hadley, for story time. Although this event is open to the public, the Amherst Parents Group folks were getting together there as well. We met some very nice parents and kids, ranging from 6 months (Ruby was the youngest) to about 4 years old. It was great, and I am excited to go to another meetup with this group (there seems to be a get together nearly every day!)!
The next day I consulted my Macaroni Kid email and saw that on Monday mornings there's "Tummy Time" at the Forbes Library in Northampton. We knew that the Easthampton Family Center also had an informal summer play group at Nonotuck Park on Monday mornings, but because the Tummy Time at Forbes was aimed specifically at non-crawlers/walkers, I figured we'd meet babies more in Ruby's age group, as opposed to toddlers. And we did! Another successful outing!
This week Ruby and I are going out of town on Thursday (to NYC so Ruby can get in touch with her roots for the first time!) but we plan to definitely go to Tummy Time again tomorrow, and on Tuesday we will either go to Lilly Library in Florence for morning storytime (I looked at their website and couldn't find the details, but if I hear more through word of mouth I'll post it here) or to the "New Mom's Circle" at Cradle at 1pm.
It's just so nice that now that we are out and about, we have lots of great options. I love this area!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Macaroni Kid Rocks!
Do you know about Macaroni Kid?
This is a site that lists all kinds of upcoming events and info relating to kids & parents in Amherst, Northampton and the entire Pioneer Valley. It's great!
My favorite part is that you can sign up to get weekly emails of all upcoming events. I'm all about weekly emails. Those rock my world.
When I first started looking at the events I thought they were all geared toward kids that were a little older than Ruby, at least a couple years old. But upon closer inspection of this week's events, I found a listing for Tummy Time at Forbes Library in Northampton on Monday mornings from 11:00-12:30. Because it was for all non-crawling/walking babies, we gave it a try (more on this coming soon...) and we met other parents of babies, made connections and had a great time! So it seems Macaroni Kid has something for everyone in the child/parent world.
I hope you find something fun to explore soon!
This is a site that lists all kinds of upcoming events and info relating to kids & parents in Amherst, Northampton and the entire Pioneer Valley. It's great!
My favorite part is that you can sign up to get weekly emails of all upcoming events. I'm all about weekly emails. Those rock my world.
When I first started looking at the events I thought they were all geared toward kids that were a little older than Ruby, at least a couple years old. But upon closer inspection of this week's events, I found a listing for Tummy Time at Forbes Library in Northampton on Monday mornings from 11:00-12:30. Because it was for all non-crawling/walking babies, we gave it a try (more on this coming soon...) and we met other parents of babies, made connections and had a great time! So it seems Macaroni Kid has something for everyone in the child/parent world.
I hope you find something fun to explore soon!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Breastfeeding Issues in the Pioneer Valley
When I was pregnant, I had every intention to breastfeed. And, when Ruby was born I did breastfeed. And I still do. BUT...
In between Ruby's birth and today, there's been a lot of drama surrounding all that breastfeeding.
Hysteria is the only word that truly reflects what my husband and I went through that first week of Ruby's life. The baby was losing too much weight and the doctor was freaking us out about it BIG TIME (we've since switched pediatricians). We were new parents who were worried and terrified about our daughter's health.
It was hell.
I wanted my daughter to grow and be healthy, which is why I wanted to breastfeed her! I wanted her to get the benefits of breast milk, I wanted to do whatever I could that was natural for her and me, as well as the bonding... I didn't understand what was going wrong!
Luckily, we were directed to Mary Carey of Pioneer Valley Lactation Consulting. I called her on a Thursday afternoon and she was at our house the next morning.
Mary was SO kind and friendly, and in about a minute of seeing Ruby and talking with us she was able to offer answers and solutions about our issues, which were with latching AND low supply.
Mary's visits (and follow up calls) were so amazing and helpful. I truly believe that, had I not met with her, I would have given up on breastfeeding, which would have absolutely broken my heart. But she gave me such great information and tips, and was just so supportive of everything, including what we eventually found to be the best way to feed Ruby. Her overall approach was also so relaxed and calming, and that made such a difference when we were initially so terrified.
I recommend Pioneer Valley Lactation Consulting to anyone in Western Massachusetts who is looking for breastfeeding education, regardless of whether or not you are having any issues.
Ultimately, nothing we tried - not power pumping, prescription drugs, oatmeal, fenugreek or More Milk Plus - could get me to make enough milk for my baby. They all helped up my supply a bit, but never to the point where I didn't have to supplement with formula. Now I breastfeed and supplement with Earth's Best formula.
I know now that not every woman can breastfeed, no matter how badly they want to or try. I also think that time hooked to a pump can be more detrimental to bonding with your baby than giving them a bottle of formula. I think the day I returned the rented pump to the hospital was the day I started building a relaxed and wonderful relationship with my daughter.
In between Ruby's birth and today, there's been a lot of drama surrounding all that breastfeeding.
Hysteria is the only word that truly reflects what my husband and I went through that first week of Ruby's life. The baby was losing too much weight and the doctor was freaking us out about it BIG TIME (we've since switched pediatricians). We were new parents who were worried and terrified about our daughter's health.
It was hell.
I wanted my daughter to grow and be healthy, which is why I wanted to breastfeed her! I wanted her to get the benefits of breast milk, I wanted to do whatever I could that was natural for her and me, as well as the bonding... I didn't understand what was going wrong!
Luckily, we were directed to Mary Carey of Pioneer Valley Lactation Consulting. I called her on a Thursday afternoon and she was at our house the next morning.
Mary was SO kind and friendly, and in about a minute of seeing Ruby and talking with us she was able to offer answers and solutions about our issues, which were with latching AND low supply.
Mary's visits (and follow up calls) were so amazing and helpful. I truly believe that, had I not met with her, I would have given up on breastfeeding, which would have absolutely broken my heart. But she gave me such great information and tips, and was just so supportive of everything, including what we eventually found to be the best way to feed Ruby. Her overall approach was also so relaxed and calming, and that made such a difference when we were initially so terrified.
I recommend Pioneer Valley Lactation Consulting to anyone in Western Massachusetts who is looking for breastfeeding education, regardless of whether or not you are having any issues.
Ultimately, nothing we tried - not power pumping, prescription drugs, oatmeal, fenugreek or More Milk Plus - could get me to make enough milk for my baby. They all helped up my supply a bit, but never to the point where I didn't have to supplement with formula. Now I breastfeed and supplement with Earth's Best formula.
I know now that not every woman can breastfeed, no matter how badly they want to or try. I also think that time hooked to a pump can be more detrimental to bonding with your baby than giving them a bottle of formula. I think the day I returned the rented pump to the hospital was the day I started building a relaxed and wonderful relationship with my daughter.
Finding a Community, Revisited
I'm totally lame! I didn't do any baby-related things last week. Will try again this week!
See the original post to know what I'm talking about here, to know what the heck I'm talking about.
See the original post to know what I'm talking about here, to know what the heck I'm talking about.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Green Garlic??
Speaking of CSA's (see previous post)...
today I got some "Green Garlic" from Mountain View Farm.
Not knowing much about this stuff, I referred to my Mountain View Farm newsletter. Here's what it said:
"Also known as fresh garlic, this seasonal treat is only available for a few weeks. Before you can store garlic, it must be cured, or dried. We do this by hanging it in a barn or a greenhouse where it can have the proper temperature and ventilation. Garlic that hasn't been cured is known as green garlic. Green garlic must be refrigerated until used. It has a much milder flavor than storage garlic. You can use your green garlic the same way you would use garlic that has been dried. Check out the recipe below or epicurious for more ideas."
Epicurious is fine, but I wanted real experience. So I went onto a EFF (Eco-Friendly Family) message board, asking if anyone had any experience with this.
No one knew what I was talking about!
People kept thinking I was talking about garlic scapes (my new love of the season! Here's an education AND the awesome garlic scape pesto recipe I've made a zillion batches of and froze!), but it's not the same thing.
Here's garlic scapes:
and here's green garlic (or "fresh garlic"):
So, what about you? Do you have any experience with "green" or "fresh" garlic? What the heck do you do with this?
today I got some "Green Garlic" from Mountain View Farm.
Not knowing much about this stuff, I referred to my Mountain View Farm newsletter. Here's what it said:
"Also known as fresh garlic, this seasonal treat is only available for a few weeks. Before you can store garlic, it must be cured, or dried. We do this by hanging it in a barn or a greenhouse where it can have the proper temperature and ventilation. Garlic that hasn't been cured is known as green garlic. Green garlic must be refrigerated until used. It has a much milder flavor than storage garlic. You can use your green garlic the same way you would use garlic that has been dried. Check out the recipe below or epicurious for more ideas."
Epicurious is fine, but I wanted real experience. So I went onto a EFF (Eco-Friendly Family) message board, asking if anyone had any experience with this.
No one knew what I was talking about!
People kept thinking I was talking about garlic scapes (my new love of the season! Here's an education AND the awesome garlic scape pesto recipe I've made a zillion batches of and froze!), but it's not the same thing.
Here's garlic scapes:
Mountain View Farm
We became members of a CSA (Community Shared Agriculture) this year! Mountain View Farm is here in Easthampton, MA, and so far it's going great.
We had never done the farm share thing before, especially coming from NYC, although apparently they are available there, too - we have friends in Astoria who just started theirs as well.
We weren't sure we wanted to spend the money (that fear of spending a good amount of money up front is terrifying!), but we decided to go for it one day a few months ago. We were in the mood for grilled vegetables, so we stopped at our local Big Y (in Southampton, it's the closest store to us) to pick up some squash and other veggies. That one trip to the grocery store cost nearly $50! That's when we decided we'd rather spend our money to get locally grown produce straight from the farm (and, ultimately, we're saving a ton of money!).
Since we started getting our shares, we've been so pleased. It's been a great opportunity to a) eat more healthfully since we're BOTH trying to get back to our pre-pregnancy weight, b) feel like part of a community and c) experiment with things I might never have heard of or gotten otherwise, like garlic scapes, turnips and green garlic!
Also, there are always parents with kids there, picking flowers and learning new things. I can't wait until Ruby is old enough to enjoy it.
All this, and the farm is in a gorgeous setting and it always feels calm and relaxed there - it's like therapy!
We had never done the farm share thing before, especially coming from NYC, although apparently they are available there, too - we have friends in Astoria who just started theirs as well.
We weren't sure we wanted to spend the money (that fear of spending a good amount of money up front is terrifying!), but we decided to go for it one day a few months ago. We were in the mood for grilled vegetables, so we stopped at our local Big Y (in Southampton, it's the closest store to us) to pick up some squash and other veggies. That one trip to the grocery store cost nearly $50! That's when we decided we'd rather spend our money to get locally grown produce straight from the farm (and, ultimately, we're saving a ton of money!).
Since we started getting our shares, we've been so pleased. It's been a great opportunity to a) eat more healthfully since we're BOTH trying to get back to our pre-pregnancy weight, b) feel like part of a community and c) experiment with things I might never have heard of or gotten otherwise, like garlic scapes, turnips and green garlic!
Also, there are always parents with kids there, picking flowers and learning new things. I can't wait until Ruby is old enough to enjoy it.
All this, and the farm is in a gorgeous setting and it always feels calm and relaxed there - it's like therapy!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Finding a Community
Now that Ruby and I are finding our groove, I'm interested in branching out.
I have yet to explore the opportunities in the area for a new mother and baby. This is going to change now. My goal this week is to go to just one parent-oriented "thing" - whether it's a class, group, get together - whatever.
So I started my research with Cradle, a pretty cool store/space in Northampton where they hold different classes and events. Judging by the calendar, the event that sounds like a good possibility for me this week is "Mom's Cafe: Open Play." The description is: Need a place to just hang out with baby, relax, socialize and meet other parents? This is an open studio time for moms or dads to come into the studio and enjoy our space and toys and hopefully make some new friends. This time is not facilitated but a Cradle staff member is always available to assist you.
Hm. This might be the one. And it's free! That's always good!
Next I looked at A Child's Garden, a neat children's store I've written about before (mainly because they sell cloth diapers, and this is where I got my awesome babywearing tutorial). But, alas, they have no events other than the babywearing clinic. Their site says they are starting a Cloth Diaper group, but there's no meeting time or anything. I'll have to look into that later.
Cooley Dickinson Hospital has a Beyond Birth class ("A Gathering of New Parents with Their Babies"), as well as Momma and Baby Yoga. I've heard good things about Beyond Birth, and I'd have to pay for the yoga, so I think BB is a likelier choice for me.
Finally, I know that on Tuesday mornings there is a group of stroller people that meet at Mt Tom to walk around the pond there. I'll have to find a recent issue of The Summit to find the details, but that's a good possibility too (why not enjoy the glorious outdoors this summer?!).
So - which community event will I go to? Decisions, decisions.
I'll report back at the end of the week. If you are in the area and know of any ones I'm not aware of, please share!
I have yet to explore the opportunities in the area for a new mother and baby. This is going to change now. My goal this week is to go to just one parent-oriented "thing" - whether it's a class, group, get together - whatever.
So I started my research with Cradle, a pretty cool store/space in Northampton where they hold different classes and events. Judging by the calendar, the event that sounds like a good possibility for me this week is "Mom's Cafe: Open Play." The description is: Need a place to just hang out with baby, relax, socialize and meet other parents? This is an open studio time for moms or dads to come into the studio and enjoy our space and toys and hopefully make some new friends. This time is not facilitated but a Cradle staff member is always available to assist you.
Hm. This might be the one. And it's free! That's always good!
Next I looked at A Child's Garden, a neat children's store I've written about before (mainly because they sell cloth diapers, and this is where I got my awesome babywearing tutorial). But, alas, they have no events other than the babywearing clinic. Their site says they are starting a Cloth Diaper group, but there's no meeting time or anything. I'll have to look into that later.
Cooley Dickinson Hospital has a Beyond Birth class ("A Gathering of New Parents with Their Babies"), as well as Momma and Baby Yoga. I've heard good things about Beyond Birth, and I'd have to pay for the yoga, so I think BB is a likelier choice for me.
Finally, I know that on Tuesday mornings there is a group of stroller people that meet at Mt Tom to walk around the pond there. I'll have to find a recent issue of The Summit to find the details, but that's a good possibility too (why not enjoy the glorious outdoors this summer?!).
So - which community event will I go to? Decisions, decisions.
I'll report back at the end of the week. If you are in the area and know of any ones I'm not aware of, please share!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Huggies vs Pampers
In case you haven't heard, Huggies has jeans diapers now, and apparently Pampers are coming out with diapers designed by fashion designer Cynthia Rowley.
You know what's cuter?
How about polka dots?
Ice cream?
Trees?
These are just a few super cute cloth diapers we've gotten so far...
You know what's cuter?
Ice cream?
Trees?
These are just a few super cute cloth diapers we've gotten so far...
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Cloth Diapers
I've mentioned in the past that we planned on cloth diapering this baby. After doing a ton of research online - more specifically on the Eco-Friendly Family message board of my favorite site, thebump.com - I decided to go with a cloth diapering trial through Jillian's Drawers. This trial included a variety of cloth diapering options, from prefolds to All In Ones. Most peoples' advice was to try this trial and see what works for my little one, since all babies are different.
Well, we've just finished the trial and it was so informative! The diapers I thought I'd end up loving and buying large amounts of are not, in fact, the diapers I'm in the process of buying for my permanent stash. And finally purchasing diapers... well, it's such an involved process, finding the best deals and best diapers for my girl... what to commit to since it's really an investment, one that we hope will live on for the next one or two babies as well!
Personally, I thought prefolds were a pain in the ass. I thought I'd love them. I wanted to love them. But I apparently have an inability to properly handle the snappi and I just didn't love them.
Now that I am building my permanent cloth diaper stash I find I'm going for fitted diapers with covers and pocket diapers, and a couple BumGenius AIO (all in one) Organics, because AIOs are so easy and these came highly recommended by many Bumpers.
Another thing we've decided on is that all the diapers we're buying are One Size (OS), so they all "grow" with the baby (click here to see an example of a diaper that "grows" using snaps). I like this idea of using a diaper for (practically) her whole cloth diapering career, than having to switch to different sizes. I don't mind the bulkiness that this causes, and more importantly, Ruby doesn't seem to mind, either.
I was also in the process of buying some BumGenius 3.0 pocket diapers, taking advantage of their awesome buy 5 get 1 free coupon, when they just announced the 3.0s will be discontinued and replaced with a new product, to be announced next week. I decided to still buy the 5 (and get 1 free) in case the new product isn't up my alley. Can't wait to find out what it is!
Now that I'm truly building my cloth diaper stash, I'm starting to use them more and more. During the trial I would go back and forth between the CDs (cloth diapers) and the disposables, because of having to do laundry, and fearing nighttime leaks.
But soon I'll be CDing 24/7, and will report back on how it's going!
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