Holiday Gift Guide

As the holidays approach, the search begins for the perfect gift to give all the littles on your list, and don't forget about mama. Here are some of my favorite brands and products that are sure to put a smile on anyone's face! 

Mom:
-Necklaces: While mom may be primarily sporting burp clothes and teething necklaces  these days, having something beautiful to put on can make a huge difference. From inscriptions to names, dates to symbols, there is the perfect one for every occasion and event. 

Two of my favorite brands include:
Mintandbirch.com

leila.com

-Ju-ju-be: Once baby comes it can feel like you must pack up the whole nursery every time you leave. Gone are the days of cute designer bags and in roll large cumbersome diaper bags with obnoxious designs... But wait, it doesn't have to be that way at all!  Ju-ju-be is a designer bag company that make diaper bags that are absolutely beautiful. Designed with functionality in mind- crumb drain anyone- you will be amazed at how easy packing baby from a trip out becomes. Plus, when those days of diapers and spare outfits are passed, Ju-ju-be makes bags that will easily transition into your favorite bag for vacation, day trips, and even a night out! 
ju-ju-be.com

Baby Products:
Milky Mama: If you know any breastfeeding mamas, you know that two things always on their mind are yummy snacks and maintaining their milk supply. Solve both needs with the gift of Milky Mama's lactation treats. Truly the most delicious lactation cookies and brownies I have tried, just ask my husband. Plus they have managed to pack lots of galactagogues in will avoiding ingredients such as Fenugreek that is known to cause tummy irritation in some people. 
milky-mama.com

Owlet Baby Monitor: What every mother wants for the Holidays, a good night's sleep! Hands down my favorite baby product, an absolute MUST HAVE! The Owlet Baby Monitor tracks your baby's oxygen level and heart rate, and is then designed to alert you if they go out of range. This means you no longer have to wake up every 30 minutes to check on your sleeping baby, let Owlet keep watch so you can get much needed sleep. (Read More)

BinxyBaby: Grocery shopping becomes a whole new experience once a baby is added to the mix. BinxyBaby provides a safe hammock for your infant to stay cozy and safe while you pick up the items you need. (Read More and for DISCOUNT)

InstaTemp: What parent wouldn't love to take their child's temperature without touching them! That means not waking your sick little one whom you just spent hours rocking, and no more wrestling with your toddler to get the ear thermometer in place. It is also more hygienic because you don't touch their skin when taking their temperature, so no more spreading germs between your family members.  
Instatemp.com

Withings Baby Monitor (video monitor): Tired of baby monitors where your baby looks like an abominable snowman? Of course, that is assuming you can even see your baby at all in the impenetrable darkness of their room. The Withings Baby Monitor is incredible, with nighttime picture quality that rivals the daytime! It's phenomenal! Plus you can set it to send noise and motion alerts directly to your cell phone. Then once your child outgrows the need for a baby monitor, it can be used as a home surveillance system.
Withings.com

Otherware teethers:  All babies teethe, but that doesn't mean you have to have your house covered in tacky or ineffective teething toys. Otherware, makes teethers that are beautiful enough to use as decoration, fun for your baby to play with, and incredibly effective at soothing those swollen painful gums. (Read More)
Otherware.ca

Kids:
- TeePees: Beautiful and hand-crafted, TeePees provide young children with a place to let their imaginations grow and explore. For young babies you can hang a mobile inside and create a nice quite place for them to lounge, then as they grow it will become their book nook and favorite fort. Luke is getting one from TneesTpees this year.
Trees.com

- Wooden toys: The best toys are the ones that inspire imagination and last for generations to be passed down among siblings and become family heirlooms to cherish in the future. Wooden toys are amazingly versatile, they go from from beautiful nursery additions, into teethers for babies, and then blossom into toys that fuel your child's playtime. 
Our favorite brands:
SmilingTreeToys.com

LittleSaplingToys.com

- Kleynimals: One of my absolute favorite companies, Kleynimals is always a great choice! From highly-acclaimed and beautiful stainless steel keys, to flatware of heirloom quality, I love it all! Plus, a beautiful new rattle has been added to their collection. With a large ring, perfect for small hands to grasp and shake, it features all the same adorable woodland friends and makes a beautiful sound when shaken. 
Kleynimals.com

- Bookroo: More then just a book subscription, Bookroo is a beautiful curated subs scripting service that delivers imagination and exploration to your home each month. With two choices, board books or picture books, Bookroo has options for all the children in your life. I get so excited when our package arrives! Each month, books arrive in a box addressed to your child with a cute hand-written note on the inside; every book is then individually wrapped in beautiful paper. I love placing the open box in front of Luke and watching his face light up as he opens and explores (eats) each book ;)
Bookroo.cratejoy.com

- Slumberkins: Cute, snuggle little friends that help your child sleep! Designed by two mothers whom set out to create the perfect comfort item to help their children sleep. The collection contains three different creatures available in a variety of colors and variations: the slumber sloth, big foot and yeti; each with a unique story to help your child prepare for bedtime. So adorable, you will want to buy one for yourself! (Read more)
Slumberkins.com

- Shepherd's Treasure: An adorable and brilliant idea that I am beyond excited about. As a Christian family, it is important to us that Christ remains the center of the holiday season. Shepherd's Treasure is a fun new family tradition that involves following your little Shepherd on their journey to find baby Jesus. Along the way you have the option to add Advent cards to provide a daily Bible verse and activity to make this season extra memorable!

SleepingBaby.com

Deepening your understanding of nutrition: Milk Conference Take-Home Points

I had an AMAZING time at the MILK Conference! The depth and quality of information provided far exceeded my expectations. I love learning and 

Here are some top take-home points from the conference: 

- Skin-to-skin goes way beyond the golden hour, you need to spend 120 mins 4 times daily for the first several weeks doing skin to skin. Leading to optimal brain development, temperature regulation, and attachment.

- If you are a mama pumping for a NICU baby, it is better to pool your breastmilk from the say into a single bottle that will be served fresh, rather then dividing it up by pumping session. This is because caloric value of breastmilk varies over the course of the day and NICU babies need consistent nutrition.

- To maximize your milk supply mom needs to nurse or pump within 4 hours of delivery.

- The measurement markings on bottles are very inconsistent. If formula feeding, it is better to use a measuring cup to determine the amount of water you are adding.

- Keep in mind when choosing the best formula for your baby:

• Soy based protein needs A LOT of processing.
• Whey empties from the stomach quicker and is less allergenic.
• Partial hydrolysis of proteins may help prevent allergy/ eczema.
• Full hydrolysis may help prevent auto-immune reactions in at-risk babies. 

- SKIP THE SIPPY CUP! It can actually inhibit the development of a mature swallowing reflex and cause speech delays. Instead start focus on introducing your baby to an open (brimless) cup from about 6 months of age.

- If you are already using the Sippy cup:

• Wean from Sippy cup by 12 months, or 24 months at latest.
• Avoid using it as a soother.
• Introduce and switch to an open cup as soon as you can. 

- Babies should be introduced to solid foods (chunky textures and table foods) by 9 months old or they will be picky eaters for the rest of their life. A great way to do this is by offering pureed foods and small chunks for them to self-feed concurrently.

 We are here!

 Large lecture hall

 Fun toys to keep the littles entertained. 

 Visiting with the vendors

 Making new friends.

 Lunch break

We had a wonderful time and met many new friends!

We hope to see you at MommyCon's amazing events next year!

MommyCon.com

MiLK Conference

It can sustain a human life for a whole year without the addition of solid food or water. It adjusts automatically to the changing needs of a growing baby. It provides antibodies that fight infections and heals wounds. Sound too good to be true? Breastmilk is the most incredible substance on Earth! And these are only just a few of the incredible benefits of breastfeeding. (Now if breastfeeding is something you are unable to do, or simply desire not to do, that is okay. A healthy, growing baby is the most important thing! Fed is best.) Have you ever wondered about the intricacies that make the newborn period so unique? Or what to feed your baby once they advance beyond breastmilk/ formula?

The Milk Conference is an educational event that will answer all these questions and more. It is an opportunity to bond with other mothers as we all navigate our parenting journey, to build a community you can turn to with your questions, or simply vent your struggles and frustrations. 

Milk is a two day event comprised of 24 sessions given by 16 different industry experts. Covering everything from the benefits of Skin-to-Skin to Postpartum care and everything you want to know about nutrition in between. You don’t want to miss it!

Baby is welcome to attend too, there will even be a whole play area specially for them. 

Tickets are still available at MilkConference.com use the code DrMommyRx16 to save $5 on your ticket purchase!

MommyCon OC 2016- A Huge Success

Being new to motherhood, I am always searching for supportive groups to make this journey a little easier. If you enjoy baby wearing, or use cloth diapers, or simply want some encouragement on this journey called Motherhood- MommyCon is the perfect opportunity for you to find yourself a community to lean on. 

MommyCon is a one day event held in multiple different locations across the United States (and debuting in Canada 2017). Dates are each year between Spring and Summer. I was privileged to attend in Orange County, California. 

VIP sessions are held the Friday prior to the main event. These are 1 hour meetings focused on high interest topics. I was fortunate enough to attend two of them.

The first VIP session I attended was hosted by Jennifer Labit the creator of Cotton Babies who shared insight into her life journey. She spoke openly about how she transitioned from a mother struggling to balance the home budget, highlighting how her struggle was the catalist into becoming an entrepreneur and founder of a successful business. Her honesty was refreshing and encouraging. We all struggle and fall; hearing how the most difficult times of her life  

The second VIP session I attended Friday afternoon was called Babywearing. This session is very popular because each attendee is randomly given either an Ergo or Beco baby carrier. Hosted by two industry professionals, including Laura Brown of Ergo, this session focused on proper ways to wear Ergo and Beco soft structured carriers. Additionally, they were more then happy to take the time to help parents trouble shoot any struggles they are having with their own person baby carriers (of all forms). 

Saturday started the main event! First stop, the check-in station where everyone was given a map and schedule for the day's program.

After checking-in I immediately headed to the exhibitor expo. It was huge and SO MUCH fun to walk around and learn about all the different brands. From clothing to cleaning supplies, and a huge variety of baby gear in between, there was something for everyone. 

I made sure to stop by one of my favorite vendors, Ju-Ju-Be! I love their bags. If you are a mama, or even just looking for a versatile bag that will be durable for all your needs, check out Ju-Ju-Be. They have bags for all styles and stages of life. 

Quick stop at a photo booth hosted by OC Doulas while little man snoozed in his Ergo360. 

There were more exhibitors in the grand hallway. It was fantastic to talk with so many industry professionals and learn from quality brands.

In the afternoon I had the most amazing opportunity to to sit down and talk with the amazing blogging mama, Carmen the Modern Mom. Known for her straight forward advice, wide range of experience, and beautiful family including her adorable daughter London Navy (aka Apple). I highly recommend following her on Instagram. 

To keep all the littles entertained during the amazing educational lectures, there was a super fun Babyganics play area set up on the side of the main lecture hall. Luke was only 6 months  old so he spent most of his time cuddled in the Ergo, but I am excited to let him play next year!

Tot Squad came out to clean carseats and strollers. They always do an amazing job!

Last but not least, check out all the swag bag goodies!!!

This was my first time at MommyCon, but it definitely won't be my last. Being a mother is difficult. Having the opportunity to sit down with other moms and learn about products and topics I value all while my baby is welcomed and entertained is priceless. I can hardly wait to attend next year. The schedule of cities is up and pre-sale tickets are already available!

In the meantime I will be at MILK Conference November 11 and 12th. If you are interested in attending use the discount code DrMommyRx16 for $5 off your ticket price!

Breastfeeding Success

As women we tend to expect our bodies to just naturally know how to care for these tiny miracles and are frustrated when we struggle. Let's face it, for many women breastfeeding is hard; and for some that is down right impossible. (I want to be clear, this article is not about the evils of formula feeding--ensuring your baby is well fed whether via breast or formula is the goal.) But knowing you are not alone can make those toe-curlingly-painful moments a little more bearable. 

Before my son was born I was overwhelmed with stories of cracked, bleeding nipples, and women crying in pain every time their baby latched. I was almost more scared of breastfeeding then I was of childbirth. I attended breastfeeding classes offered by the hospital, spoke to my birthing instructor, and read books. However, I still wasn't prepared for how draining and utterly difficult being the sole source of nutrition, for a demanding little person, could be. 

I was very blessed that within minutes of being born Luke latched and began feeding, no significant pain and no cracked nipples. I was so pleased, all that time I invested in research seemed to pay off... But over the next 72 hours I found myself in tears. Not because of pain, but exhaustion! My tiny 6lb 7oz baby boy seemed to be permanently suction cupped to my breast. He would scream if I detached for any amount of time. Bathroom trips, which were their own form of torture, became a sprint to get back to my squeezing little nursling. Forget meals, brushing my teeth, or showering. Oh and that whole sleep when your baby sleeps... It sounds great in practice, but he would wake every 30mins desperate for nourishment. DAY AND NIGHT! I was defeated, exhausted, and wished God had given men breasts also so we could at least take turns. AND that is all without mentioning the horrible labor-like cramping that comes with breastfeeding and the aforementioned nipple agony some women have to endure. I knew breastfeeding was what I wanted, but nothing I had read prepared me for this. 

Now fast forward 7 months. I have a happy, healthy, Rolly Polly little boy who continues to breastfeed with no intention of slowing down anytime soon. Thankfully, we have fallen into a predictable pattern of feeding and mama gets to pee and shower in peace... Most of the time ;) But the journey wasn't easy and if breastfeeding your baby is what you want, I am hear to say YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN THE STRUGGLE and YOU CAN DO THIS! 

Along the way I found some products to be especially key in making my journey successful:

1. Good breastfeeding tops! This one is huge, because in the beginning especially, quick access will keep everyone happier.

- Bravado Designs 

            Dream Nursing Tank: This tank is comfortable and supportive enough to be worn without a bra. In fact I never wear a bra with it! The cups are designed to fit your specific bra size and expand and contract with your changing milk supply. The design is simple and discrete enough to to wear alone or layer with your favorite jacket. The silhouette is flattering without hugging tightly. And if you are unsure of your size Bravado has professional fitting experts who are happy to guide you to the perfect fit. 

- Naked Tank

            I admit it, initially I was a little confused as to why one would need this strange looking tank, but thought I would give it a try. It is designed with a cut-out that fits underneath your bust, allowing easy access to your bra/breast without changing the neckline of your top. After the first few months passed and I became more comfortable with breastfeeding I started to miss my "normal" tops. You know the ones that don't have strange panels which scream "BREASTFEEDER". This tank literally turns any shirt into a nursing top! AMAZING! By layering it underneath my work blouses I can pump at work without feeling exposed. Such a fantastic design, both the black and white are staples of my wardrobe. 

White Bamboo Naked Tank

- Au Fait Mama 

            This brand makes adorable clothes that don't sacrifice comfort or style to allow nursing access. Made from a luxuriously soft bamboo, AFM's nursing pieces all have an elastic neckline that easily expands to allow full access, but what I low so much is that because there are no extra panels or clips, all their nursing clothes can stay part of your permanent wardrobe once your nursing days are over. 

AFM ruched t-shirt dress

AFM nurture t-shirt 

AFM nourish long sleeve t-shirt 

AFM even makes baby leggings

2. Comfortable Nursing Bras! This was initially a challenge for me. They can be expensive and super awkward. So my first suggestion is to either go to a retailer where you can try some on, or make sure you can easily exchange. Also make sure you buy the correct size because your breast size will change drastically over the first 3-5 months. 

-Bravado Designs 

            I LOVE their Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra. It is incredibly comfortable, folds back easily, and changes cup size seamlessly with my changing milk supply. This is the perfect bra to have in your hospital bag and the bra I would recommend to anyone who has ever struggled with mastitis or clogged milk ducts. They come in lots of fun colors and are available in a Yoga version with convertible straps as well!

            Bravado also makes a beautiful and comfortable wireless nursing bra called the Bliss Nursing Bra that is perfect for when you are looking for a little more support. Personally I had to size down one size to achieve optimal fit for both full and empty times of the day. 

- Pea in the Pod

            Once your milk supply has stabilized and you are ready for underwire again. I found the Pea in the Pod Demi bras at Motherhood Maternity to be the only structured bra that didn't make me choose between constricting full breasts or puckering as my supply diminished during the day. Plus, these bras convert to racer back allowing them to work with a variety of tops. 

3. Supportive Nursing pillow! When 8-14 hours each day and into the night are dedicated to one task, you had better make sure you are comfortable. Otherwise many neck and back aches are in your future. Thankfully, there are many different breastfeeding pillows out there, some are firm, others soft. Some rest on your lap while others buckle around your waist. Each one has it's own benefits. 

- Nook Niche

              I tried 3 different brands of nursing pillow before investing in the Niche. I just couldn't bring myself to fork over so much for a surface to lay my son on while he eats. However, when breastfeeding lead to painful neck, shoulders, and back-- I eagerly searched for a solution. For me, that solution came in to form of a square pebbled pillow that held Luke at the perfect angle to allow me to work hands free without being hunched over. Plus, the Nook Niche makes a super comfortable adult pillow for side-sleepers once you are past your nursing days!