Babywise, my opinion

It has recently occurred to me that older moms might find themselves tempted to want to resort to one of the popular baby sleep remedies.  Let's face it, we're busy and sleep is at premium more valuable than gold!  However, I've been on the war path since my first child was born to warn people about the book Babywise, by the Ezzo's.  They advocate extreme scheduling of your baby and suggest just letting your baby cry as long as they will until time for food or awake time.  Folks,  YOU CAN"T SPOIL A BABY!  Babies are also incapable of making deliberate decisions until well after 12 months.  I know the sweet little thing may seem like they understand and can comprehend "NO", but until they are older, we just have to let them have their way, sorry.  Belive me, as the parent of an 8 and 11 year old, there will be time for discipline later and if you have a good relationship with them from the start, they will not need as much it!  Remember, the word discipline means "to teach", not to punish. 

More fuel for the breast feeding war!

How many of you go to the bathroom to eat?  I know I don't!  I'm not super into the idea of my baby having to do that either....  Recently, I was asked why it was necessary to have the ability to file a lawsuit for not being allowed to breast feed.  Well, here is an article that demonstrates the reason quite well!  There are three types of laws regarding breastfeeding.  1) You won't get thrown in jail, gee thanks! 2)  It is a legal right (most states have this type of law) and 3) It is a legal right with the ability to compensated if that right is violated (only about 10 states have this).  Without the ability to file suit, it makes enforcement difficult and makes it easy for businesses to disregard the law.  Here is an example of compensation under the law making a difference.   http://www.nursingnewsflash.com/texasnurses/Story.nsp?story_id=170318140

Things to do in Houston, TX

We have been on a bit of a break.  In part due to Spring Break and in part to a nasty cold going around our household!  I generally assume that everyone who lives in our area knows about all of the great things you can do with your kiddos, but since I'm still running into people who haven't heard of some of our favorites, I"m going to share.  If you don't live in the Houston area, that's ok, some of these things are available in other cities as well. 

First on our list of spring break activities was the Houston Zoo.  If you haven't been out since the put in the new African exhibit, it's worth going!  Anna was able to get up close and personal with a gorilla (through plexiglass of course ;0)! ). 

Next on the list is the Bayou Wildlife Park ( http://www.bayouwildlifepark.com/ ), this is a great day trip!  Located on FM 517 in Alvin.  Go on a safari, right here in Texas!  Take a picnic and feed an Ostrich!

If it's the month or March or April, you can couple your trip with a stop at Froberg's Farm to pick your own strawberries!  ( http://www.frobergsfarm.com/ ).  If you don't live in the Houston area, go to http://www.pickyourown.org to find venues in your area to pick your own fruit and vegetables!  Anna loved this and was frustrated that she had to wait until we got home for washing and pureeing to have a taste!

If you live in Houston, you are no more than an hour from Galveston, which has Moody Gardens, the Strand, Bichop's Palace, Dolphin Tours, and deep sea fishing (not a baby activity, but our 8 yr old son loves to fish)  http://www.galveston.com/default.asp

If you live here, you don't need this info, but for visitors here in early March, swing by the rodeo!  http://www.hlsr,com 



Etzy.com - homemade baby!

One of the advantages to having a baby after 40 is finacial stability and the ability to indulge in what is most adorable.  If you can have something unique and adorable AND put some away for retirement and college then you have yourself a win-win situation!  http://www.etzy.com/  can help you do just that!  I have found so many adorable baby dresses for less than what I would have spent at a boutique on etzy!  Check it out!

Kindermusik

Today's recommendation is for Mommy and Me music classes through Kindermusik!  Kindermusik stimulates your child's vestibular system, broadens the sounds they are able to hear (all sounds for language are set by age 3), and creates treasured bonding time and lasting memories! 

http://www.kindermusik.com/

Anna's a little pooped after class!

Pregnancy after 40 on Dr Oz today!

Set your DVR today!  http://www.doctoroz.com/

Dr. Oz talks about the reality of pregnancy after the age of 40.

Parenting advice for today

Never do for a child what they are able to do for themselves!  Since one of the major goals of parenthood is independence and responsibility, teaching your children how to accomplish tasks for themselves accomplishes teaching both of these traits.  With that said, this does not apply to infants!  Remember, you can't spoil a baby! 

Janet Evonovich's Stephanie Plum Series and the Kindle Fire!

Ok, I love nursing Miss Anna, but lets face it, it can get a little boring!  Most welcome is anything that can help kill the time!  My husband gave me a Kindle Fire for Christmas.  I was originally opposed to the idea of a Kindle because I really like the feel of holding a book and being able to look back etc., etc...  Well, I'm a convert!  The Kindle is the best thing ever for a busy mom!  You can turn the page with just one finger and change the font size so you can set it a distance away!  Fabulous!  One of the drawbacks of pregnancy after 40 is how is messes with your eyesight, so being able to change the font size has re-opened the world of reading for me, it is a breath of fresh air!

I decided that I would tackle the Stephanie Plum series with my new Kindle.  I have now read the first four books in the series and have High Five loaded and ready to go.  I wasn't aware when I started One For the Money that they had just turned it into a movie.  I discovered this because as I was reading I was thinking, "Gee, this would just make a great movie, wonder if anyone has thought of that?"  So, I searched on the Internet and just like that, it will be released January 27th!  The books read quickly, if you haven't read them, you still have time to read the first book before the movie release.  Go get it!  It is great entertainment and a great way to pass time while feeding your little one!  Watch out though, it's definitely PG-13 and highly addictive!  If you have an older child in the house like I do, it isn't for a child below 16 yrs in my opinion. 

To commemorate finishing Four To Score, here is a recipe for cabbage rolls!
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/cabbage-rolls-ii/

What is the deal with breastfeeding in public???

I really feel like we are going backwards in our thinking on this issue.   With my other two children I never received stares or unwelcome comments.  Now, 8 years later, there seems to be some kind of public outcry for Moms to stop feeding their babies in the most natural and healthy way possible.  Is this some kind of baby trend that goes along with the Paula Deen trend to eat the worst food possible for us?  Anna being my third child with a span of 11 yrs in between, I am amazed that people still don't get it! 

Here is something that happened at the Target near my home:  http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/lifestyle/2011/12/breastfeeding-at-target-moms-stage-national-demonstration/
Why should it come to this?

Recently, I was in the Los Angeles airport and I was feeding Anna while waiting to board our plane.  Not a shard of skin could anyone see and a man actually guffawed and said "Humph!  Breastfeeding!  Right here!"  Really sir?  I didn't make a comment about that Snickers bar you were eating right there in public! 

The next time you see a mom in public feeding their infant, say thank you, don't stare in embarrassment! They are doing their part to lower health care costs for everyone.  In this world where people are all too often cruel and abusive to their children, someone participating in the loving act of nurturing and feeding their child should be a welcome sight! Some people are not able to nurse or have other reasons that make it impossible, but for those who can, we should be supportive.  Here is a little info to pass along on the issue...

Breastfeeding protects babies

1. Early breast milk is liquid gold – Known as liquid gold, colostrum (coh-LOSS-trum) is the thick yellow first breast milk that you make during pregnancy and just after birth. This milk is very rich in nutrients and antibodies to protect your baby. Although your baby only gets a small amount of colostrum at each feeding, it matches the amount his or her tiny stomach can hold. (Visit How to know your baby is getting enough milk to see just how small your newborn’s tummy is!)
2. Your breast milk changes as your baby grows – Colostrum changes into what is called mature milk. By the third to fifth day after birth, this mature breast milk has just the right amount of fat, sugar, water, and protein to help your baby continue to grow. It is a thinner type of milk than colostrum, but it provides all of the nutrients and antibodies your baby needs.
3. Breast milk is easier to digest – For most babies — especially premature babies — breast milk is easier to digest than formula. The proteins in formula are made from cow’s milk and it takes time for babies’ stomachs to adjust to digesting them.
4. Breast milk fights disease – The cells, hormones, and antibodies in breast milk protect babies from illness. This protection is unique; formula cannot match the chemical makeup of human breast milk. In fact, among formula-fed babies, ear infections and diarrhea are more common. Formula-fed babies also have higher risks of:
   • Necrotizing (nek-roh-TEYE-zing) enterocolitis (en-TUR-oh-coh-lyt-iss), a disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract in preterm infants.
   • Lower respiratory infections
   • Asthma
   • Obesity
   • Type 2 diabetes
   Some research shows that breastfeeding can also reduce the risk of Type 1 diabetes, childhood leukemia, and atopic dermatitis (a type of skin rash) in babies. Breastfeeding has also been shown to lower the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).

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Mothers benefit from breastfeeding

1. Life can be easier when you breastfeed – Breastfeeding may take a little more effort than formula feeding at first. But it can make life easier once you and your baby settle into a good routine. Plus, when you breastfeed, there are no bottles and nipples to sterilize. You do not have to buy, measure, and mix formula. And there are no bottles to warm in the middle of the night! You can satisfy your baby’s hunger right away when breastfeeding.
2. Breastfeeding can save money – Formula and feeding supplies can cost well over $1,500 each year, depending on how much your baby eats. Breastfed babies are also sick less often, which can lower health care costs.
3. Breastfeeding can feel great – Physical contact is important to newborns. It can help them feel more secure, warm, and comforted. Mothers can benefit from this closeness, as well. Breastfeeding requires a mother to take some quiet relaxed time to bond. The skin-to-skin contact can boost the mother’s oxytocin (OKS-ee-TOH-suhn) levels. Oxytocin is a hormone that helps milk flow and can calm the mother.
4. Breastfeeding can be good for the mother’s health, too – Breastfeeding is linked to a lower risk of these health problems in women:
   1. Type 2 diabetes
   2. Breast cancer
   3. Ovarian cancer
   4. Postpartum depression
   Experts are still looking at the effects of breastfeeding on osteoporosis and weight loss after birth. Many studies have reported greater weight loss for breastfeeding mothers than for those who don’t. But more research is needed to understand if a strong link exists.
5. Mothers miss less work – Breastfeeding mothers miss fewer days from work because their infants are sick less often.

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Breastfeeding benefits society
The nation benefits overall when mothers breastfeed. Recent research shows that if 90 percent of families breastfed exclusively for 6 months, nearly 1,000 deaths among infants could be prevented. The United States would also save $13 billion per year — medical care costs are lower for fully breastfed infants than never-breastfed infants. Breastfed infants typically need fewer sick care visits, prescriptions, and hospitalizations.
Breastfeeding also contributes to a more productive workforce since mothers miss less work to care for sick infants. Employer medical costs are also lower.
Breastfeeding is also better for the environment. There is less trash and plastic waste compared to that produced by formula cans and bottle supplies.
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Breastfeeding during an emergency
When an emergency occurs, breastfeeding can save lives:

• Breastfeeding protects babies from the risks of a contaminated water supply.
• Breastfeeding can help protect against respiratory illnesses and diarrhea. These diseases can be fatal in populations displaced by disaster.
• Breast milk is the right temperature for babies and helps to prevent hypothermia, when the body temperature drops too low.
• Breast milk is readily available without needing other supplies.

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More information on why breastfeeding is important
Read more from womenshealth.gov

• Your Guide to Breastfeeding — This easy-to-read publication provides women the how-to information and support needed to breastfeed successfully. It explains why breastfeeding is best for baby, mom, and society and how loved ones can support a mother's decision to breastfeed. Expert tips and illustrations help new moms learn how to breastfeed comfortably and how to overcome common challenges. http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/breastfeeding-guide/

Explore other publications and websites

• A Well-Kept Secret — Breastfeeding's Benefits to Mothers (Copyright © La Leche League International)  — This publication provides information on the benefits of breastfeeding for the baby and the mother. It includes information on physiologic effects and long-term benefits. http://www.llli.org/NB/NBJulAug01p124.html
• Benefits of Breastfeeding (Copyright © Linkages Project)  — This fact sheet briefly describes the different health benefits that breastfeeding has for mothers and babies. http://www.linkagesproject.org/technical/bf_benefits.php
• Breast Milk Associated With Greater Mental Development in Preterm Infants, Fewer Re-hospitalizations  — This news release describes a study which found that premature infants fed breast milk had greater mental development scores at 30 months than did infants who were not fed breast milk. Also, infants fed breast milk were less likely to have been re-hospitalized after their initial discharge than were the infants not fed breast milk. http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/oct2007/nichd-01.htm
• Breastfeeding  — This website briefly describes the benefits of breastfeeding and what to do if you have trouble breastfeeding, and it links to information from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development about breastfeeding. http://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/
• Breastfeeding and Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes in Developed Countries  — This report explains the effects of breastfeeding on short- and long-term health outcomes in developed countries. It concludes that a history of breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of many diseases in infants and mothers from developed countries. http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/tp/brfouttp.htm
• Breastfeeding vs. Formula Feeding (Copyright © Nemours Foundation)  — This publication discusses the benefits of breastfeeding and the pros and cons of bottle-feeding, as well as answering common breastfeeding questions. http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/food/infants/breast_bottle_feeding.html
• Can Breastfeeding Prevent Illnesses? (Copyright © La Leche League International)  — This publication explains how breastfeeding can prevent some illnesses in your baby. http://www.llli.org/FAQ/prevention.html

Toy of the Day!

Today's toy is Carter's teething doll!  ADORABLE!!!  I'm including link to find a way to buy, it's a little hard to find and not found on Carter's website.  It crinkles and jingles and has the wonderful bright colors to attract little eyes.  It also has a flower that's easy for little hands to practice those first grasps and a teething ring.  Perfect first doll!   

http://www.vonmaur.com/Product.aspx?ID=77256&source=googleps

Baby product of the day

What is the greatest invention since my 11 was born?  The Bumbo Chair!!!!  Seriously, if you are wondering what should I buy and what should I skip?  Don't skip the Bumbo!  Starting around 2-3mos of age, your little one can sit in the Bumbo and have the ability to sit up!  I have even decided to forgo a high chair and plan on using my Bumbo as long as Anna will fit.  Now, there have been some accidents using the chair.  As with all baby products, common sense must be a part of it's use!  Don't put it on something high like a table or counter and then walk away!!!!  As a matter of fact, don't put your baby anywhere high (even a high chair) and walk away! http://www.bumbo.com/

Toy of the day!

Toys are super important for baby!  Anna has a few favorites!  Today's featured toy is from Sassy Baby.  It's the Bumpy Ball!  She loves the colors (She stares at it in quizzical ways) and she likes to hear it rattle!  The bumps on the ball make it perfect for little hands to pick up and manipulate!  Sassy recommends 6mos+, but even at 4mos. Anna enjoys this toy!   If you are going to get baby only one toy, this one's it!   http://www.sassybaby.com/80109-bumpy-ball

Pregnant past 40!

What words of comfort and advice do I have to impart to those out there who might find themselves pregnant intentionally or not past the age of 40?
1.First, go to all of your OB appointments and listen to your doctor that you have carefully picked out! 
2.Take your prenatal vitamins and follow all instructions for prenatal care with advanced maternal age.  3.Don't listen to all of the people who will make you feel like you are a high school kid who got knocked up and not the responsible adult you are!  I personally have been married to my husband for 17 years and we pay our mortgage and taxes.  Yet, I still received comments like, "Well, congratulations I guess?" and "I guess this was a surprise?"   Well, I"m an adult, I know the facts of life, it's not a total surprise, we just thought it wouldn't happen. Tune that nonsense people let out of their mouth out!
4. Don't listen to the statistics!  You will be sent the message throughout your pregnancy that what you are doing is very risky, something akin to climbing Mt. Everest or something????  Remember, the statistics for pregnancy under age 40 show a risk of 1-2% for something going wrong.  After 40 it goes up to around 5%, which means, there is a 95% chance that everything will be JUST FINE!!!!  I personally told my doctor that I wouldn't do anything if my baby had a positive indicator for Downs so I decided against amnio, but I didn't want him to play God either.  We would let God do what He wanted to do, He brought me to it, so....  I realize that many have different feelings on this issue, but ultimately, you have to do what is right for you.  It's your head that has to rest easy on the pillow at night.
5. Do become very pragmatic!  If ever there was a time to simplify life, this is it!  Pregnancy at 30 was exhausting, but pregnancy at 40 was physically taxing in a way I was not prepared to experience.  Accept that not everything is going to get done and cut out doing things that don't have to be done (this includes the time after baby arrives as well).  People always pass out this advice and we all give a polite nod, but really, give yourself a break!

On the issue of diapers

This is a topic that I have definitely evolved in my thinking.  With my two older children, I was definitely more aware of pricing, but in my old age I have decided that penny wise and pound foolish is not the way for me!  It's true, you can spend a whole heap less on off brand diapers; however, is it worth the $30 copay to the pediatrician and the $10-30 on the antibiotic to clear up the staff infection that can develop from the cheap diapers not doing their job?  Well, I've decided not....so, it's Pampers Sensitive Skin Swaddlers for us!  When she gets older, I am going to give Luvs a chance, since I thought they were the closest to being like Pampers with my other two . ;0)

Pictures

One thing that I decided was definitely a tradition to continue was the practice of taking my little one every month to have pictures done.  I always use a coupon and do a small package, but I do them every month until 1 year and then every six months until 2, and then yearly... Today I took Anna to Picture People and it was amazing.  They weren't around with my first two and I wish they had been!  They were able to take me as a walk in and I received my pictures right there on the spot, no waiting and making another trip to pick pics up!  A HUGE plus for this busy mom!!!

Anna Claire At Home

This blog is to chronicle my life returning to mommyhood at the age of 42.  Last January I went to the doc for a bad sore throat and bronchial infection and came out of the doctor pregnant!  I already have two children, Audrey, age 11, and Jonah, age 8, so it was not what I expected!  My husband and I deliberately has left things open to chance after having my son, but after three years we just figured oh well, we have two great children, that's the way it goes!  After 5 years I sold everything....After 8 years, I thought I was just going through early menopause!  After I stopped crying, I resurfaced to embrace the idea.  My early menopause, Anna Claire,  is sitting here with me right now as cute as can be!  She is now 4 mos old and an incredible blessing to our family. 

This blog will be devoted to sharing the wisdom that comes from returning to mommydom in my 40's.  Things I'm not going to do again, things that are definitely worth repeating and that I feel are timeless mommy tricks!