From the moment I found out I was pregnant, I dreamt of having an all natural, drug free birth. I had visions of a calm and serene room where I felt safe and comfortable and would be able to use my HypnoBirthing training to give birth in a calm and beautiful way. I had my birth plan all mapped out, and my good friend who is a doula, was all lined up to be there with me at the birth. I was looking forward to the day with excitement and joy.

Although I knew I wanted a natural, drug free birth with as little (or no) medical intervention as possible, I also knew that I would be giving birth in a hospital. Early on in my pregnancy I was diagnosed with placenta previa, meaning that my placenta was fully covering the opening of my cervix. My doctor informed me that it would most likely resolve itself as my belly grew and my placenta moved up and away from my cervix, but to be sure, I was given a few minor restrictions throughout my pregnancy and the placement of my placenta was checked regularly. Luckily, by 38 weeks my placenta previa had indeed resolved itself and I was cleared to have a vaginal birth. My placenta was no longer covering my cervix but it was still a bit low, so to be safe and avoid any unforeseen complications, I felt safer giving birth in a hospital.

Regardless, I still wanted to have a comfortable, relaxed, and home-like feeling to my surroundings. I planned to labor in the comfort of my childhood home (where my parents still live) in their beautiful claw-foot bathtub for as long as I could until my doula advised me it was time to head to the hospital. However, as I neared 42 weeks of pregnancy and was showing absolutely no signs of impending labor, I was told I would need to be induced. There went my dream of spending my early labor in the claw-foot tub!

As I arrived at the hospital, my husband and my doula helped me transform my hospital room into a birthing sanctuary. There was no harsh lighting, just the soft flickering glow from the candles. The room was lightly filled with the relaxing scent of lavender (one of my absolute favorite smells), and I was surrounded by my own soft, plushy pillows off of my bed at home. We were truly able to transform my hospital room into a comfortable, relaxing sanctuary. Aside from the monitors (which we kept turned off when they were not in use) it really didn't feel much like a hospital room at all. Even my nurses and midwives kept coming in just to hang out because the room was so relaxing and zen. After my son was born I even remember looking around and saying, "When did we move rooms?" While I was busy pushing, the room had been transformed back into a hospital room as most of my things had been moved out of the way to make more room.

Here are some of the ways you can achieve tranquility in a hospital setting. (Be sure to have your comfort items packed and ready. Keeping them in the trunk of your car or right next to the front door is always a good idea.)

Transforming Your Hospital Room Into A Birthing Sanctuary:

1. Sight ~ Setting up flameless candles around the room, turning off the lights and drawing the shades helps to create a calm, serene ambiance. Bringing photos from home perhaps of other children, pets, or loved ones and placing them around the room can also bring comfort. 
2. Smell ~ An essential oil diffuser and a few essential oils that you like is a great way to make your room smell nice and mask any hospital smells. Plus you also get the added benefits that the oils offer such as calming, stress relief, balance, endurance, and relief from nausea. 
3. Sound ~ Make a birthing playlist ahead of time with relaxing and calming sounds and songs, and bring along some portable speakers. The music will add to the serene and relaxing atmosphere while also helping to block out the (sometimes loud and unpleasant) noises of a hospital.
4. Feel ~ Hospital beds tend to not be very plush and the pillows are generally thin, stiff and scratchy. Bringing your own pillows and a blanket or two from home can make a huge difference in your comfort level both during and after labor. Your own pillows and blankets will carry the smell of your home with them as well. I also recommend wearing your own clothes in lieu of a hospital gown and bringing a robe to wear after labor. 
5. Taste ~ Not all hospitals allow women in labor to eat or drink anything other than sucking on ice chips, but in my experience and through my childbirth education training, I have learned that it is important for laboring women to keep their strength up by eating small snacks and staying hydrated. Packing light snacks that have some protein such as nuts, string cheese, crackers, protein bars, and fruit are good options. Bring along some hydrating drinks like coconut water or water with fresh squeezed lemon juice and a pinch of Himalayan sea salt to help keep your electrolytes up.

Comfort Item Checklist:

• flame-less candles
• essential oil diffuser
• essential oils
• pillows from home
• blankets from home
• your own clothes, slippers, and socks
• music playlist and portable speakers
• batteries
• sleep mask
• snacks
• coconut water

No matter where you plan to give birth, or if you birth goes according to your plan or not, birth is a beautiful, magical, empowering, and amazing experience with the greatest result - your child! As life would have it, my son's birth did not go quite as I had planned. But it is our story, and it happened just as it was meant to. He was born happy and healthy, and we are madly in love. I wouldn't change a thing. 

Do you have any suggestions on how to transform your hospital room into a birthing sanctuary? Share in the comments below! 

When I was pregnant, I could hardly wait to get started on the nursery. I had an entire Pinterest board dedicated to design ideas, and had thoroughly planned out just how I wanted the nursery to look. I drove my husband crazy nagging him to get started on painting it so I could get busy "nesting."

Not only did I want my son's nursery to be aesthetically pleasing, I also wanted it to be safe and non-toxic. A sanctuary for him to sleep and play in. On my search for the perfect pieces to put into my son's room, I found that many every day products for infants and children such as the mattresses they sleep on and the changing pads we wipe their little booties on are made from harmful materials and contain toxic chemicals. These chemicals can let off gasses that are then inhaled as a child sleeps, sits, or lays on or near them. Fortunately, there are much safer, organic, and non-toxic options now available!

In my research, I continued to see many of the same toxic chemicals popping up over and over again as being components of many essential pieces that make up a nursery.

Commonly Used Toxic Chemicals Lurking In Everyday Baby Products ~ 

• Polyurethane foam ~ Used as filling for many crib mattresses and changing pads, polyurethane foam contains several toxic ingredients that emit harmful gasses such as formaldehyde, toluene, and benzene which I will mention below. 
• Formaldehyde ~ A highly flammable substance, formaldehyde is also carcinogenic. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde has been shown to cause headaches, depression and mood changes, insomnia, irritability, and can even lead to attention deficit disorders. 
• Toluene ~ Also highly flammable, toluene is an inexpensive and very strong adhesive used by many different manufacturers for all kinds of products. It is what gives products that "new" smell when you open them. Regular exposure to toluene and the vapors it emits can lead to damage of the nervous system, mental confusion, dizziness, headaches, drowsiness and fatigue, and skin problems. 
• Benzene ~ A known carcinogen, benzene has been proven to increase one's risk of developing Leukemia. It is often used to make synthetic fibers and fabrics, detergents and dyes. 
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ~ Also referred to as vinyl, PVC is another known carcinogen that lurks in many, many different products from changing pads to baby bottles and more. However many companies have come to realize that PVC is harmful and have stopped using it in their products. When buying supplies of your child, be sure to check that they are "PVC free."
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) ~ Chemical compounds commonly used in paint that continue to off-gas long after the paint has dried. VOC's have been known to cause several serious health problems ranging from ear, nose and throat irritations to severe headaches, and even cancer.

Where You Might Find These Toxic Chemicals And What To Use Instead ~

Crib Mattresses ~ Many popular crib mattresses are filled with polyurethane foam and have been shown to emit over 100 different harmful chemicals and industrial solvents. Yuck! When your child sleeps on the mattress he or she inhales those chemicals. Not only that, but these chemicals are emitted into the air, causing you and your baby to be exposed to them every time you are in the room.
Opting for an organic crib mattress is one of the best things you can do to prevent your child from being exposed to these unnecessary and harmful chemicals. The best truly organic crib mattress I have found (and the one that is in my son's crib) is the Naturepedic No-Compromise 2 in 1 Ultra Crib Mattress. It is 100% non toxic and organic. This mattress comes with two sides - one side is firmer (and waterproof!) for infants and the other side is quilted and a bit softer for toddlers. Naturepedic offers many different crib mattress styles to fit your needs.
Note: When choosing an organic crib mattress, be sure to check what it is filled with. There are many brands that will claim their mattress is organic, and indeed the outer material is, but then they are filled with potentially harmful, non-organic stuffing or foam. 

Mattress Pads ~ Similar to crib mattresses, mattress pads also are made from harmful, synthetic materials that your child inhales while they are sleeping, and they continue to off-gas harmful chemicals into the air as well. Many mattress pads are made from polyurethane and vinyl (PVC), and are then coated with harmful antibacterial and stain resistant coatings. Luckily there are some great, all organic (and waterproof) mattress pads available. Once again, Naturepedic wins as my choice for best organic crib mattress pad. They have several to choose from, including an organic cotton waterproof mattress pad made from 100% safe, non-toxic and organic materials.

Changing Pads ~ Commonly made from vinyl (PVC) and polyurethane foam, many changing pads also contain antibacterial, stain resistant coatings which off-gas harmful chemicals. There are many organic brands to choose from, however, ranging in price from as low as $20 up to $200. I like (and use) the Oeuf Pure and Simple Eco-Friendly Contoured Changing Pad ($48-$55). Naturepedic also offers an excellent organic changing pad, however it is on the pricier side ($99).

Crib Bedding ~ When it comes to crib bedding, it is a very personal choice and many things come into play such as the size, style, colors, and patterns, as well as the materials it is made from. Many big name companies such as Land of Nod, Pottery Barn Kids, Sprout SF, and Giggle now carry a line of organic crib bedding. Etsy is an excellent place to find unique and fun patterns and styles of crib bedding made from super soft, organic fabrics. Try to steer clear of crib bedding made from synthetic fibers, as these can contain harmful chemicals and dyes, can irritate a baby's sensitive skin, and cause allergy like symptoms.

Paint ~ Most wall paint contains harmful chemicals known as VOC's. Luckily, more and more paint companies now offer non-VOC paints in an array of beautiful shades. When choosing a paint for your nursery, be sure to check that it is in fact NON-VOC. Some paint companies claim to be low-VOC, but this is only the base paint, and once color is added it is with a higher VOC paint. Non-VOC paints are easy to find at most home improvement stores.

Furniture ~ The wood used to make cribs, changing tables, dressers, rocking chairs, and bookcases are often treated with formaldehyde and other stains and sealants that off-gas harmful chemicals into the air. Synthetic materials such as plywood can be even worse. When buying furniture for your baby's nursery, look for used furniture which will have lower levels of formaldehyde than a new piece. Formaldehyde tends to "settle in" after about 5 years and stops off-gassing at that point. Craigslist is always a great place to look for used furniture, as well as second hand baby stores. If you really want something new, aim to find furniture that is finished with a non-toxic seal such as beeswax. Another solution is to use Safecoat Hardseal on your new furniture to help cut down on off-gassing. Cover crib rails with rail guards to prevent your little one from chewing on the wood and ingesting any of the sealants and stains used on the crib.

Other Items To Consider Adding To Your Nursery ~

Himalayan Salt Lamp ~ Rather than using a traditional night light, using a himalayan salt lamp not only gives off a warm, soft glow (proven to not interrupt sleep patterns like a white or blue light) but it also provides many health benefits! Himalayan salt lamps emit negative ions which are found in nature and are created from ocean waves, waterfalls, lightening, and sunlight. Negative ions purify the air by bonding together with positive ions, thus removing them. They also reduce and remove harmful EMF's (electromagnetic fields) as well as allergens such as dust mites in the air. Negative ions help to increase serotonin, relieve stress, improve sleep, improve overall mood, increase daytime energy, and promote calmness. We use one in my son's room, in our bedroom, and in our living room.

Cool Mist Humidifier ~ I love the Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, which we use every night during the winter in my son's room. During the winter months the air tends to become drier, then add on top of that the use of furnaces and heaters which dry out the air in our homes even more. Dry air can lead to an increase in colds, congestion, runny noses, sore throats, and dry, itchy skin and eczema. Humidifiers help to protect against dry air by adding moisture back into the air. I prefer cool mist humidifiers because there is less of a chance of bacteria and mold growing in them and being released into the air.

Diffuser ~ Diffusing essential oils can provide several health benefits such as protection against colds and the flu, promote a more restful sleep, reduce stress, enhance mood, the list goes on. Diffusing high quality, therapeutic grade essential oils in your baby's room not only makes the air smell nice but adds an additional health benefit to the air they are breathing!

Have a product you love in you non-toxic nursery or insight on the subject? Please share in the comments below!

Pregnancy, childbirth, and becoming a mother are some of the most life altering experiences a woman will go through in her lifetime. When a woman becomes pregnant, she essentially gives over her body to another human being for 10 months (because lets be honest, pregnancy is closer to 10 months than it is 9) and even longer if she is planning to breastfeed. During this time, her belly will grow, her breasts will grow, and other parts of her will most likely grow too. Her body will be forever changed after giving birth to a child. Her emotions, thought process, and even parts of her personality will also change as she becomes a mother.

When I was pregnant, I found that along with all of the changes my body was going through, came the fact that the people around me now thought they somehow had the right to comment on my body. It was as if suddenly everyone seemed to think my body was public property because I was sporting a bump. It was now open for discussion, comments, and even unsolicited physical contact. Look, I get it. It is exciting to see a pregnant woman. They are, in my eyes, beautiful. People want to feel involved in a woman's pregnancy, in some way connected to it. If only for a moment.

During my pregnancy, I welcomed the warm smiles I received and enjoyed being told that I was glowing, or that I looked beautiful. I felt beautiful. In fact, I felt more beautiful as a pregnant woman than I had at any other time in my life. However, not all of the comments I received were kind, thoughtful, or welcomed by me. In fact some of the things people said to me were downright rude, and were most certainly unsolicited. Now, I know that people don't mean to be unkind when commenting on a pregnant woman's body, but what you say can certainly come off that way. As pregnant women we are hormonal, sensitive, and most likely quite irritable during this time of great transition in our lives. Besides which, you would never comment on a non-pregnant woman's body, so why is it ok to do so to a woman who is?

Getting pregnant was no easy task for me. Due to the fact that my husband had been through two battles with cancer and a bone marrow transplant that ultimately saved his life, it had also left him infertile. That meant that I had to go through in-vitro fertilization (IVF) to get pregnant with our son. It took one round of IVF, two frozen embryo transfers, and two separate fertility clinics  to do the trick. So when the first signs of a baby bump began to show, I couldn't wait to show it off. I was damn proud of that bump! It was the best accessory I'd ever had. Watching my belly grow meant that the baby inside was growing, and that was what mattered most. So when the unsolicited comments on the size of my bump began rolling in, I wasn't sure how to respond. I expected to get some comments on my growing belly, but nothing could have prepared me for the seemingly endless commentary I would receive throughout my pregnancy.

Toward the end of my pregnancy I found myself not wanting to leave the house in fear of what comments I might receive that day. My son was two weeks overdue in the middle of one of the hottest summers we have had in a while. I was hot, tired, uncomfortable, and yes, big. And I was in no mood for unsolicited commentary on my body or my pregnancy. I was so tired of being asked how I was feeling, when my baby was due, and being told way too many times of a different method that was sure to induce labor. Trust me, I had already tried it. Even the sweet, simple comments were beginning to get tiresome. I was ready to be left alone. And I am sure I wasn't the first pregnant woman to feel that way.

Here Is What I Have To Say To Everyone Who Wants To Comment On A Woman's Pregnant Body ~

A woman's body, pregnant or otherwise, is not up for discussion. Don't assume that she must be having twins because you think her belly is large. Of course it is large. There is a human growing inside of it - hopefully a nice healthy, chubby, squishy one. And certainly don't ask her if she is having twins. If you must ask, then accept her answer if she says no, don't respond with, "Are you sure?" or "Oh wow, then that must be one big baby!" No woman wants the thought of some gigantic baby in their mind as they prepare to give birth. Do not use words such as huge, big, large, wide, or massive when describing a woman's pregnant belly, or any other part of her body for that matter. A lady never wants to hear those words in the same sentence as "You are..." Besides which, using such words to describe her could cause her to feel self conscious or even uncomfortable in her pregnant body. On the other hand, if you think a woman's belly looks small for how far along she is, do not tell her that either. What you may not realize is that perhaps her baby is measuring small for gestational age, and it is a great cause of concern and worry for her. Your seemingly innocent comment has now filled her with more worry and stress, two things that do not benefit her or her baby. Do not tell her that "life is going to change forever." She knows that. No one decides to have a child thinking their life will be exactly the same. And don't tell her to "sleep now because once that baby comes you'll never sleep again." Trust me, she is trying to sleep. But sleeping well when you are pregnant is no easy task. It requires several pillows propping up different body parts, and takes a solid five minutes just to change positions. Plus, we all know that sleep goes out the window when you have a baby. No need for the reminder.

What you think about the size and shape of her pregnant body is really of no concern to her. She did not invite you to share with her your thoughts on how she looks. She did not ask you to guess how far along she is, or if you think her belly looks too big or too small for where she is at in her pregnancy. She did not ask you to share the horror stories of your traumatic birth experience or the birth of someone you know, mere weeks before she is due. She did not ask you to guess the gender of her baby based on the shape of her belly. If she did want your opinion on what she is having, she would ask. She did not ask you to stop her on the street so that you could touch her belly. Would you rub her belly if there wasn't a baby inside of it? Probably not. So don't assume it's ok to do so just because she is pregnant.

If you feel compelled to comment on a pregnant woman's body, here are some things you could say instead. Try saying a simple, "you look great" or "congratulations." Tell her that parenthood is wonderful. Or, you could just say nothing at all. Give her a smile or hold the door open for her. A simple gesture such as that can go a long way.

Photo by: Ashley Wexler Photography

Creating a baby registry as a first time mama can be both fun and overwhelming. Aside from the obvious things such as a crib and crib bedding, diapers, wipes, and baby clothes it can be difficult to know what you really need and what items you can do without. There are so many different baby gadgets out there, its no wonder most first time mamas are baffled when it comes to creating their baby registries.

Other mamas you know can be a great resource as to what essentials to include on your baby registry and what items will likely just end up collecting dust. I have compiled a list of my most used baby registry items as well as some of the things I never use.

25 Baby Registry Must Haves~

1. Diaper bag - There are a ton of diaper bag choices out there, and lucky for us most of them are pretty stylish these days. I have the Skip Hop Duo Signature diaper bag and absolutely love it. It comes in an array of colors and patterns, fits a ton of gear without being too bulky, and has a special strap to clip it right onto your stroller. 
2. Humidifier - A humidifier is a must for your baby registry. It is one of those items we don't think about until we actually need it, and then don't have it. Better to be safe than sorry with this one so you don;t find yourself running out in the middle of the night desperately trying to find one when your baby comes down with their first cold. I love the Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier. Be sure to get a cool mist humidifier rather than a warm mist one, which tend to be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. 
3. Nursing pillow - A nursing pillow can be a tremendous help when it comes to making breastfeeding more comfortable for you and your baby, especially while you are both still learning, and finding comfortable positions. I have the My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow and I love it! I also have the Boppy nursing pillow that I use in the rocking chair, and it also doubles as a support pillow for your baby when they are learning to sit up. 
4. Breast pump - This is a must have item. At some point if you are planning to breastfeed, you will need to pump. I have tried a few different pumps and my favorite is the Medela Pump In Style Advanced Breast Pump. It comes with everything from a stylish tote to carry it in to a batter pack for pumping on the go, a cooler for bottles, and extra parts.
5. Pumping bra - This is a life saver if you have to pump often. Pumping can be time consuming and boring, so having your hands free to read a book, flip through a magazine, or get some work done on the computer is essential. I like the Medela Hands Free Pumping Bustier Bra. 
6. Baby monitor with video -  Having a monitor with video is awesome because you can watch your little one sleep and monitor them more closely than you can with the sound only baby monitors. I use the remote wireless video baby monitor from Motorola. It has two way audio, a large color scree, infrared night vision, music, pan, tilt, and zoom features. 
7. Baby food maker - If you're like me and prefer to make your own wholesome, fresh baby food, then you will need a good baby food maker. I started out with the Beaba Babycook Classic and later upgraded to the Beaba Babycook Pro which allows you to steam, purée, reheat and defrost. Its easy to use and quick to clean.
8. Swaddles - Swaddles are a must for the early months. They provide baby with the snuggly feeling of being in the womb and help them sleep easier by preventing them from waking themselves up with the Moro (startle) reflex. Swaddle blankets work, however my son would always bust out of them, so I used the SwaddleMe Original Organic Swaddles. These are awesome because they are Velcro so they are quick and easy to put baby in and they stay put. No more rogue arms punching their way through.
9. Wipe dispenser - Most packages of baby wipes can be a pain to get the wipes out of. And when your mini me has had a major blow out the last thing you want to do is struggle to get a wipe free from the package. Wipe dispensers make it much easier. I like the DEX Baby Wipe Dispenser. Its stylish, fits most brands of wipes, and is easy to use. 
10. White noise machine - This is a life saver! The white noise helps babies to sleep more soundly as newborns because it reminds them of the sounds in the womb. As babies grow and become more susceptible to being woken up by outside noises, the white noise helps drown out other sounds and help baby stay asleep. My favorite is the Dohm-DS Natural White Noise Sound Machine. It has the option to set a timer or not, which I like because every time other sound machines I have used shut off my son would wake up. This one will run all night. 
11. Nose Frida nasal aspirator - This Swedish design comes in very handy when your baby has a cold or a runny/stuffy nose. While the concept seems kind of gross, it is incredibly helpful and actually strangely satisfying to clear out your baby's nasal passages. You can find the Nose Frida nasal aspirator here.
12. Rectal thermometer - The most accurate reading you can get when taking a baby's temperature is rectally. The Vick's Baby Rectal Thermometer is known for being one of the most accurate and quickest thermometers out there. Plus it is ergonomic and comfortable for your baby's booty too. 
13. Nail clipper with a light - Clipping your baby's nails can be a terrifying experience! Their nails are so tiny, and you don;t want to risk clipping tier skin, so having a nail clipper with a light on it enables you to really see what you're doing. I use the Safety 1st Sleepy Baby Nail Clipper.
14. Baby swing - I can't even begin to stress how handy this has come in. I have the Fisher Price Snugabunny Cradle N' Swing and when we first came home from the hospital my son would only sleep well on me or in his swing. Once we transitioned him to the co-sleeper I still used the swing for naps. Plus he loved the light up mobile and would happily watch it while I got a few things done. I was sad when he recently grew out of it! 
15. Snap N' Go car seat and stroller - I use the Chicco Cortina Keyfit Travel System which is easy to use, convenient, and comes with the top-rated car seat in terms of safety. It fits babies from  4 - 30 lbs and uses a LATCH system for extra safety. The stroller has an aluminum frame, multi-position reclining seat, and all-wheel suspension. Plus its affordable, around $300 for the entire travels system. Uppababy also makes an excellent travel system, but it will run you up around $800. Snap N' Go travel systems are great for running errands and jetting around town. They open and close with ease and you can pop the car seat in and out quickly. 
16. Baby carrier - Babywearing is convenient, comfortable, and also has several benefits for both parent and child. I highly recommend registering for a baby carrier (or two.) I use both a soft structure carrier for walks and hikes, and a wrap carrier for around the house. You can see my recommendation for the best baby carriers and wraps as well as the benefits of babywearing in my previous post.
17. Pack N' play - The Graco Pack N' Play Playard can be used as a crib while traveling, or as a playpen when you need a few minutes to get things done around the house. It comes in its own case and is fairly easy to open up and fold shut. 
18. Rock N' play - Many babies I know spent the first several months of their life sleeping in the Fisher Price Deluxe Auto Rock N' Play. It is snug so baby feels comforted and secure, compact enough to put right next to your bed, lightweight and easy to move from room to room, and the auto version has a timer that you can set to rock your baby to sleep. My son wasn't a fan and preferred his swing, but I'd say at least 75% of the babies I know loved this item. 
19. Travel high chair - While full size high chairs are great, travel ones do the trick as well, plus they are space savers, and you can easily pack it up when traveling or visiting friends and family. I like the Ingelsina Fast Table Chair. It easily attaches to most tables and enables your little one to sit at the table with you as opposed to near you in their own high chair. 
20. Co-sleeper - If you are planning to co-sleep or have your baby sleep next to you in your room when they are newborn, I highly recommend registering for a co-sleeper. I used the Arms Reach Co Sleeper which is basically a bassinet with one side that is open and fits right up against your side of the bed. This way your baby still has their own space to sleep safely, but they are with next to you making night feedings easier. I preferred a co-sleeper over a bassinet. 
21. Bottle drying rack - I love my Boon grass drying rack and stem. There is a reason you see this particular drying rack on most counter tops of families with small children. Its the best! It holds bottles upright so they dry quickly and evenly, and the stem is great for hanging nipples and pacifiers from. You can fit quite a few bottles on it too. 
22. Bottle brush - Whether you will be breastfeeding or bottle feeding, there will come a point when bottles are introduced (So that you can get a break now and again) so having a good bottle brush that fits easily into bottles of all shapes and sizes is key. My favorite is the OXO brush set which comes with a brush and a stand, as well as three additional pieces to clean nipples, caps, and any other small parts. 
23. Bottles - No need of a bottle brush without the bottles! I have tried many different brands of bottles and various nipple flows. My son had a difficult time with sucking down too much air, causing gas and stomach pain. Finally we tried the Dr. Brown's Natural Flow bottles and they are magic! They greatly reduce gas and colic and have worked wonders for my son. They can be a bit of a pain to clean but well worth it.  
24. Bathtub - A good bathtub that is comfortable, safe, and makes your baby feel secure is essential. I have tried a couple of different ones, and our favorite is the Blooming bath. It is soft, plush, and fits inside sinks of all shapes and sizes. Your baby is well supported and comfortable in this bath. Those hard, slippery plastic tubs provide more of a challenge than anything and babies don't seem to like them. 
25. Rocking Chair or Glider - I don't have to tell you that most babies love being rocked. Having a comfy rocking chair or glider in your nursery is great for late night feedings, soothing your baby, and snuggling up together to read books before naps and bedtime. I am not going to give a recommendation for a particular one because I think that a rocker or glider is a very personal choice and will also need to fit into the decor of your nursery. Rockers and gliders come in a wide range of styles, colors, patterns, as well as prices ranging from under $200 up to $1,000 or more. 

5 Items You Can Do Without~

1. Bumbo seat - I registered for a Bumbo thinking I would use it all the time, and truth be told, I think we have used a total of twice. I found it to be very constricting and my son didn't seem to be very comfortable in it. His chubby thighs barely fit in the leg holes even by 4 months old. You're better off registering for a bouncy seat or a swing instead.
2. Baby clothes - You will receive so many baby clothes already, there is really no need to register for more. Besides, people would rather pick out baby clothes for your little one on their own because its fun to shop for babies! That being said, you likely won't receive many of the clothes you register for anyway. 
3. Shoes - While baby shoes are beyond adorable, the are a pain to get on and once you finally do get their tiny foot in there, they don't stay on. So my advice is, don't bother. 
4. Bottle warmer - Getting babies used to having warmed bottles can be hard when you're on the go and need to give them a bottle with no access to a warmer. Getting them accustomed to room temperature bottles will make things easier for you when you're not at home. (However I don't recommend giving them cold bottles because it can be more difficult for them to digest.) If you do need to heat up breast milk or formula that has been in the fridge, a bowl with hot water works just as well and is about as fast as a bottle warmer. (Never microwave a baby's bottle! The microwave will damage the breast milk and can create hot pockets in formula that can burn babies mouths.)
5. Wipe warmer - I chose not to use a wipe warmer because while its a nice idea to wipe your baby's bum with a nice warm wipe, what do you do when you're out an about and don't have your wipe warmer? Your baby probably won't enjoy being wiped down with a cold one. But if they don't know any differently then they probably won't complain. I have never used a warmed wipe on my son and he's never complained. 

At four months old my son sprouted two teeth, virtually overnight. He suddenly started showing interest in everything I ate, and began sucking down more and more milk. I found myself wondering if he could already be approaching a need for solids.

I wasn't ready to introduce him to solids just yet, and I wasn't convinced my son was quite ready either. But by the time my little man turned five months old it was apparent that he was indeed, ready. So where do we start? Our pediatrician had recommended rice cereal as an optimal first food, but there is so much conflicting information on whether or not rice cereal is really an appropriate first food for an infant. (More on that later.) The Weston A. Price Foundation suggests starting your baby on egg yolk at 4 months of age. Veggies or fruits first? Purées or baby led weaning? There are so many options! What's a mama to do?

When it comes to introducing solids there are basically two main approaches.  I will be discussing the basic premise and some of the pros and cons of each. I am not, however, going to go in depth over which method is "better" or tell you how you should feed your child. I believe that it is every mother's right to decide what she feels is best for her baby and her family.

Methods For Introducing Solids~

Baby Led Weaning ~ Baby led weaning is a method of feeding your infant that was developed by British health visitor and midwife, Gill Rapley. Baby led weaning simply means letting your baby feed themselves from the very start, and skipping puréed foods and spoon feeding altogether. Your baby is entirely in charge of the feeding process. (Weaning in the UK has a different meaning than it does in the U.S. In the U.S. we refer to weaning as moving away from breastfeeding, whereas in the UK it refers to the introduction of solid foods.) It is recommended to start this method of feeding at 6 months of age, or sometimes even later, by putting pieces of table food, referred to as "finger foods" such as scrambled eggs, small slices of meat, pieces of fruit, and veggies in front of your child and let them feed themselves.

The Pros

• Saves time without the need for steaming and puréeing food for your baby (if you make your own baby food as opposed to store bought)
• Introduces your baby to different textures right off the bat which may make them less picky eaters in the future.
• Baby eats what you're eating, no need to make a separate meal, and baby can eat at the same time as the rest of the family.
• Your baby is very involved in the feeding process and has control over what they choose to eat off of their plate and how much.
• Provides opportunities to practice their eating skills and fine motor development by having to grasp food and put it into their own mouth.

The Cons

• It can be messy. Most of the food will end up on the floor and all over your little one's face, which my two dogs would surely appreciate! 
• Adults eat puréed and mashed foods too, so by avoiding them altogether baby isn't given the opportunity to learn how to eat those types of foods and may be opposed to those textures later on.
• Baby may not get enough of the nutrition he/she needs. Since some of the food will end up on the floor it is hard to tell how much your baby has actually eaten. Sometimes babies may not get enough to eat with this method and can become deficient in certain essential nutrients. This can also lead to slower weight gain in some infants.
• It is a choking hazard. Yes, babies can choke on puréed or mashed foods as well, but it is far less likely. Giving your child finger foods that are the wrong size or shape can lead to choking. Children should therefor be closely monitored when eating. 

Traditional Feeding Method; Purées and Spoon Feeding ~ The more commonly known and often referred to as "traditional" method of introducing solids is with puréed and mashed foods fed by spoon to the baby by the parent or caregiver. With this method you may either steam and purée or mash your own food, or feed your baby with store-bought jars of baby food. (I highly recommend making your own baby food at home, preferably with organic ingredients whenever possible. Store bought baby food, even organic brands, is not fresh and therefor lower in nutrient value, and contains preservatives and other unnecessary additives.)

The Pros

• Teaches baby to swallow food and manipulate it with their tongue.
• Low choking hazard. By offering your child purées and mashed foods, then working your way up to include some lumps, and finally then adding in finger foods, you are providing your baby with the time they need to learn how to manage different food textures at their own pace.
• Easy, gradual introduction to real food.
• Gets plenty of nutrients and a full belly. 
• You know exactly how much they have eaten.
• Less mess. Since you are the one feeding your baby, less food is likely to end up on the floor.

The Cons

• Can require more time and prep if making you own baby food due to having to steam and then purée or mash up food until it is smooth. 
• It is difficult to eat at the same time as your baby since you are the one feeding them. Therefor if your baby is being fed during family dinner time, you are likely to be eating once everyone else is done. 
• Parents can give solely puréed foods for too long, making the transition to finger foods harder later on and potentially creating picky eaters.
• Babies can be inadvertently overfed with this method.

How I Chose To Introduce Solids~

While I believe there are definite benefits to both of the above methods of introducing a baby to solid foods, I personally chose to start my son with organic, homemade purées and mashed foods that I feed him with a spoon. While I do purée his food, I do not do so until it is a perfectly smooth texture. There are some small lumps left in most of his food and he seems to do fine with them. He was just recently introduced to solids at 5 months of age, and my reason for going with the more "traditional" approach is because as a first time mama, I was not comfortable with giving him solid pieces of food right of the bat to eat on his own. I watch him closely and stop feeding him when he begins to lose interest or show signs that he has had enough to eat. Luckily for me, he is pretty good about self regulating and lets me know when he is done.

When I feel he is ready and capable of grasping pieces of food and feeding them to himself, I plan to introduce him to a few safe finger foods and see how he does. I do plan to continue to give him purées and mashed foods alongside of finger foods so that he enjoys all of the textures and develops the necessary skills to eat an array of different textures and foods. Some of my favorite foods as an adult are puréed and mashed. (Creamy mashed potatoes, puréed butternut squash soup... yum!) This is what I feel comfortable with and it works well for my family.

Good Starting Foods~

For the first year of your child's life, breastmilk (or formula) should be your baby's main source of nutrition. Solid foods are introduced as a way for your child to learn the skills needed to eat real food and acts as a secondary source of nutrition for the first 12 months.

While there is a lot of conflicting information out there about which foods are best to give your baby first; from veggies before fruits to avoid baby favoring sweet foods, to starting with rice cereal, to egg yolk or liver first, and so on, there's no wonder mamas can feel unsure of which foods are best to start with! If you think your little one could be ready for the introduction to solid foods, be sure to consult with your pediatrician first.

Here are my recommendation for some good very first foods:

• Avocado ~ good source of healthy, unsaturated fats, vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6, folate, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and sodium. Avocados also contain antioxidants and help to protect your little one's liver, they are easily digested, and taste mild and delicious.
• Egg Yolk ~ contains DHA, choline, iron, and cholesterol which are all essential for baby's developing brain.
• Vegetables ~ veggies such as broccoli, green beans, zucchini, squash, cauliflower, and root vegetables are excellent sources of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Peas, for example are a good source of vitamins A, C, B6, folate, niacin, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, sodium, selenium, zinc, and manganese. They have a pleasant, sweet taste, and can be easily puréed or can be a fun finger food for your baby to practice grasping. Plus, one cup of peas contains more protein than a tablespoon of peanut butter.    
• Fruit ~ Introducing a variety of vegetables prior to fruit can be a good way to go so that baby does not develop a preference for sweet foods right off the bat and then not accept the taste of vegetables later on. However, fruit also offers necessary health benefits and are certainly good early foods to give. Bananas can be given raw, while other fruits such as apples, pears, cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots, berries, and so forth should be cooked to help break down the fiber and sugars, making them easier to digest, up until baby is around 8 months old and can better handle raw fruit. Fruit with skins should be peeled before being given to your baby.

What About Rice Cereal And Oatmeal Cereal As A First Food?

Giving fortified rice cereal is often recommended by pediatricians as the ideal first food to give your child. Many commercial infant cereals are fortified with iron and other essential nutrients that babies begin to need more of than breastmilk can provide by the time they are 6 months old. However, they also contain other additives, sugars, and preservatives that are not ideal for an infant's sensitive system. Luckily, many pediatricians are beginning to understand that there are many benefits to starting babies on foods other than cereals. 

If you were to look up the pros and cons of giving rice cereal as a first food to babies you will likely come across tons of articles with quite a bit of conflicting information. Many people advocate that babies under the age of one do not produce the digestive enzyme amylase which is necessary in order to break down and digest grains and starches, and that giving rice cereal or oatmeal cereal to infants can be harmful to their digestion and cause digestive problems later on. Others will say that babies do in fact produce amylase, though in smaller amounts than adults, and that they can indeed digest grains. Breastmilk also contains amylase. What about the arsenic levels of rice and rice cereals? So, how do we know whether or not grain cereals are a good option to give our babies? 

This topic could be a blog post all on its own, so I won't go too in depth here, but I do think it is an important topic worth mentioning. I am not an expert on feeding babies solid foods by any means, but I will tell you what I chose to do and why. I did not start my son off on rice cereal or on oatmeal. I have steered clear of rice cereal due to the information out there about the arsenic found in rice. I chose to start my son on wholesome foods with only one ingredient; avocado. Then I introduced another single ingredient food a few days later, egg yolk. And so on. My son has had some homemade oatmeal cereal that I ground up and then blended with my breast milk. I do not use this as a regular food for him, but I am ok with him eating some grains, as I believe they do have many health benefits. In newborns, the amount of amylase is significantly lower than that of an adult. However, by the age of 5-6 months babies produce enough amylase to digest complex carbohydrates and grains. Oats are high in fiber, iron, magnesium, and zinc which are all essential nutrients for a growing baby. 

Signs Your Baby May Be Ready For Solids~
Your baby may not have all of these signs and can still be ready for solids, but below are some good indicators your little one could be ready for more than just milk. 

• Most pediatricians will recommend that a baby is ready for solids between 4-6 months of age. I feel 4 months is a bit young, but 5-6 months is a good starting point and their digestive systems are more mature at that age.
• Baby has lost the "tongue thrust" reflex.
• Baby can sit up with some support or on their own. 
• Baby shows interest in the food you are eating.
• Baby has good head and neck control.
• Baby has one or more teeth.

*Please note that I am not a doctor or nurse. I am a mama with a background in holistic nutrition who has done my research. This post is for informational purposes only. If you are unsure whether it is time to introduce solids to your baby or not, or have questions as to what foods you should start with, please consult your child's Pediatrician.

Sources:
www.wholesomebabyfood.momtastic.com
www.westonaprice.org
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6608871

In the days and weeks following my son's birth, I experienced a range of intense emotions including pure bliss, deep love, exhaustion, sadness, confusion, fear, resentment, and even jealousy. I felt pure bliss when holding my newborn son in my arms, and a deep, ever growing love for him each time I gazed at his face or smelled his newborn smell. I felt exhaustion from giving birth, and from lack of sleep. I felt sad about losing who I used to be before I became a mother and the life and freedom I once had. I felt jealous that my husband could pop up off the couch so easily and walk around without being in pain, that he could come and go from the house with ease, and even that he got to work, while I was tethered to my couch and my son was tethered to my breasts 24/7. I felt a sense of loss for my pre-pregnancy body and pre-baby self. I felt fear when my husband did return to work and I was left to care for this tiny human on my own. What was I supposed to do with him? Was I really responsible for this tiny person's every need? What if I did something wrong? I felt resentful towards other mothers who were out and about just days after giving birth while it was still taking me five minutes just to stand up off of my couch, and another five to walk to the bathroom. In the midst of all of this I also felt proud and empowered. I had just endured days of labor and hours of pushing. I had brought a human into this world and that was amazing. I was utterly confused by all of these cycling emotions.

I had a hard time with breastfeeding for the first few months of my son's life (see my previous post about My Breastfeeding Experience) and I often felt like I was failing him because I was unable to feed him enough. I shed so many tears over our breastfeeding struggles, and spent so much time worrying about what to do about it. It felt all consuming. I felt like no one understood what I was going through, how could they? My husband couldn't understand because he has never tried to breastfeed a child. My mother couldn't understand because my brother and I are adopted and were not breastfed. I felt alone in my struggle in those early weeks, and that ugly green monster called jealousy would rear its ugly head again when I would see or talk to other mamas who's babies were breastfeeding like champs, or who had a huge milk supply. 

The worst of my emotional roller coaster passed after about three weeks. I began to feel more like myself again. I was healing, I was getting used to this new person living in my home, and understanding his cues better. We were really bonding and I was finally getting out of the house. Soon enough I felt more like myself again. Of course, I am not the same person I was before my son was born. I never will be that person again. I am a mama now, and I fully embrace and love that role and everything that comes along with it. 

What I was going through in those early weeks of my son's life is commonly referred to as the "Baby Blues." The baby blues are very common after a woman gives birth to a child. Your hormones are all over the place, you have a little person you are suddenly fully responsible for taking care of, you are sleep deprived, and probably pretty sore. For the past 9 months you have been sharing your body with someone else, and if you are breastfeeding, then you are still sharing your body with someone else. That can be overwhelming at times.

What Are The Baby Blues?

The Baby Blues is a normal, common, short lived period of feeling sad, emotional, and moody. It generally lasts anywhere from 2-3 weeks after giving birth. 70-80% of women suffer from the baby blues after having a child, while only 10-20% suffer from postpartum depression. 

During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone levels are super high, and after the delivery of the baby and the placenta, these hormone levels plunge rapidly. This normal neurological process is what triggers the baby blues. Luckily, there are some natural ways to treat eh baby blues that will help you to feel better in no time. 

10 Ways To Beat The Baby Blues Naturally:

1. Time - Be gentle with yourself and give yourself some time. You just brought a human into the world, that's huge! And becoming a mother is a major life change. Its only natural you need some time to adjust.
2. Placenta Capsules - If you hire a doula to be with you at your birth, many of them are certified to encapsulate your placenta for you to take after the birth of your child. The placenta contains oxytocin - a hormone that helps reduce pain, depression, and increases bonding with your baby. If oxytocin levels are low after giving birth, a woman is more likely to suffer from the baby blues and even postpartum depression. Taking your placenta capsules can help boost your oxytocin levels and help make the shift in your hormones smoother. The placenta also contains thyroid stimulating hormones which boost energy levels, increase immunity, speed recovery time, and increase your milk supply. 
3. Rest - This can be hard to do with a newborn at home, but getting as much rest as you can will do wonders for you emotionally and physically. How many times have you been told to "sleep when the baby sleeps"? Trust me the dishes, laundry, and other household chores can wait (or let your partner take care of them!) Getting rest is much more important. 
4. B vitamins - B vitamins, especially folate, B6, and B12 have been shown to help alleviate symptoms of depression. A deficiency in these vitamins can also cause depression, so taking a B complex is important both during and after pregnancy.  
5. Acupuncture - Acupuncture can help to balance the hormonal and emotional systems of the body after giving birth and can reign in your hormones quicker. Acupuncture has also been shown to prevent postpartum depression and relieve symptoms of depression both during and after pregnancy.
6. Fish oil - When taken during pregnancy, fish oil can help prevent postpartum depression and the baby blues. Having low levels of DHA has been linked to depression due to lower levels of serotonin and dopamine; two chemicals in the brain that are linked with mood. If you have been taking a fish oil during your pregnancy and are still experiencing symptoms of depression after the birth of your child, you may need to increase the amount you are taking. Eating fish that are higher in DHA such as salmon and halibut can also help. 
7. Eat a healthy diet - By eating a nutrient dense diet high in essential vitamins and minerals that promote brain and emotional health such as zinc, selenium, B vitamins, and vitamin D, you may be able to prevent postpartum depression and speed along any symptoms of the baby blues. Eating a whole foods, healthy diet also speeds recovery time, helps you build a healthy milk supply, aids in losing the baby weight quicker, and will even help you sleep better. Foods to incorporate into your diet daily are dark leafy greens, fatty fish, eggs, whole grains, fruit and veggies, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Do your best to avoid refined sugars and processed foods both during and after pregnancy. 
8. Talk to other mamas - Unfortunately, the baby blues and postpartum depression are rarely talked about, but sharing those experiences with other women can be hugely helpful and even therapeutic. When my son was born it helped me a lot to relate with other new moms who were experiencing something similar to what I was. So don't be afraid to talk it out with other mothers you know. Chances are they know exactly how you feel. 
9. Get outside - It is so easy to get stuck in your home after having a baby. Siting in your house all day can bring you down and cause you to feel more sad and isolated. While the thought of leaving the house with a newborn is terrifying the first few times, getting outside, filling your lungs with fresh air and daylight, seeing other adult humans and interacting with them, and getting some light exercise with a walk will all do wonders for your psyche. And after the first couple of times getting out with your baby, you'll feel like a pro. Don't be afraid to get out of your house alone too. Leave the baby with your partner and take a short stroll around the block, run a quick errand to the store... getting outside alone can provide a much needed break and give you time to reconnect with yourself. 
10. Have visitors - Don't overdo it, but have your mom, sister, best friend, or anyone else you feel comfortable with come over and spend some time with you and your baby. Company can be amazingly therapeutic and helpful, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed or nervous about being alone with your new baby at first. Knowing someone else is there can be hugely comforting. 

Could It Be Something More Than The Baby Blues? Signs You May Have Postpartum Depression:

*Please note that I am NOT a doctor, nurse, or Psychologist. The information in this article is not intended to treat, diagnose or be used in place of medical care. If you think you may be suffering from postpartum depression please contact your doctor right away. 

The baby blues and postpartum depression have similar symptoms. However, the baby blues is short lived (2-3 weeks) with fair mild symptoms, and then you should begin to feel better. Postpartum depression on the other hand, is a serious medical condition that should not go untreated. Postpartum depression (PPD) symptoms are severe enough that they can disrupt your ability to function. Some of the symptoms of PPD given by the Mayo Clinic are ~

• Depressed mood or severe mood swings
• Excessive crying
• Difficulty bonding with your baby
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual
• Inability to sleep (insomnia) or sleeping too much
• Overwhelming fatigue or loss of energy
• Reduced interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
• Intense irritability and anger
• Fear that you're not a good mother
• Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt or inadequacy
• Diminished ability to think clearly, concentrate or make decisions
• Severe anxiety and panic attacks
• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or think that you may have postpartum depression, please contact your doctor right away. 

Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/basics/symptoms/con-20029130
http://www.pullingdownthemoon.com/blog/2012/november/acupuncture-and-postpartum-depression.aspx

I'll admit, pizza is my weakness. I love me some good pizza! But it's not always easy to find pizza made with high quality ingredients and that isn't dripping with grease. I have an even bigger challenge right now because my son has a sensitivity to cow's milk protein, and since I am breastfeeding I can not eat any cow dairy. I can however, eat goat's milk dairy since he does just fine with that, and since there aren't any pizza places where I live that use goat cheese, I haven't had pizza in a while! I have really been craving it lately so I decided to make my own homemade, organic pizza with goat milk mozzarella and let me tell you, it was soooo good! And the best part is, you can mix it up by using different toppings each time you make it.

Homemade Organic Veggie Pizza Recipe:

Ingredients For Dough~

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp organic cane sugar
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 1/4 tbsp active dry yeast
• 2 3/4 cups white whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp sea salt or pink Himalayan salt

Ingredients for pizza sauce~

• 1 - 6oz can organic tomato paste
• 1/4 tsp sea salt or pink Himalayan salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp organic cane sugar

Toppings~ (This is what I used but you can add whatever toppings you like!)

• 1 crown of broccoli cut into bite sized pieces
• 8-10 stalks of asparagus, cut into bite sized pieces
• 1/2 can artichoke hearts, quartered
• organic goat milk mozzarella

Instructions~

1. Pour water and yeast into a mixing bowl and whisk together then let stand for about 5 minutes or until the yeast is foamy/puffy. Then slowly mix in the olive oil and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt and blend well. Then slowly pour in the above mixture and mix slowly until it reaches a doughy consistency.
3. Place the dough onto a well floured surface and knead by hand until it is a well formed ball.
4. Cut the dough in half.
5. On the same floured surface, roll each ball of dough into a 12 inch round, and about 1.4 an inch thick. 
6. Grease a baking sheet with olive oil and transfer the dough to the baking sheet and set aside.
7. To make the sauce, mix tomato paste, garlic powder, sugar, oregano, and salt in a bowl. Slowly add water while stirring until desired consistency is reached (approx 6 tbsp)
8. Place 2-3 tbsp or desired amount of pizza sauce onto the rounds and spread evenly with the back of the spoon.
9. Evenly distribute the cheese and  toppings.
10. Bake pizzas at 500 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. 
11. Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, and slice pizza into desired amount of slices.