Reuse or buy new?

By Krista

Got another bun in the oven? Now what? Should you reuse some of your previous products, or scrap it and start over? Why not do both? Baby gear is constantly evolving, changing, AND being recalled. What was the latest and greatest gadget one baby ago could now be completely yanked from shelves. With a little research and proper planning, getting ready for your second, third, or fourth (whew) bundle can be a breeze.

First, get savvy and take inventory. Prepare your “reuse or buy new” list by considering safety, emotion, and usability. Some items may represent an emotional connection. Maybe you have beautiful memories of rocking your first born wrapped in a special blanket and envision passing it on to them to celebrate the birth of their first child? Certainly, these items fall into the emotional category and you will want to put these aside as special treasures. Don’t forget to consider connections your child may have towards a precious item. They, just like you, may have special memories toward a stuffed animal or pillow. The thought of handing these items down to a new baby might cause unnecessary sibling conflict. Involve your children in these decisions prior to bringing home baby and avoid tantrums and strife.

However, car seats, high chairs, cribs, and larger more expensive items are ripe for the reusing! An absolute MUST is a visit to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website. Research all items you intend to reuse and make sure they haven’t been recalled since your last trip down baby lane. If your item passes muster, complete your own safety check by ensuring all parts are still working properly and not in need of repair.

Finally, don’t discount usability. We have all purchased products that, simply put, we hated. True lemons that drove us mad when we first used them and are sure to aggravate us again. Make life easier and consider replacing these items. A newborn takes enough energy, fighting to collapse a stroller shouldn’t. If cost is a concern, try selling items that didn’t work for you and put your funds towards the purchase of something more user-friendly.

All this being said, getting ready for a new baby is a personal experience. Many moms opt for all new, while others find reusing the comfortable way to go. Recently I’ve spent many blissful hours going through our old baby items and reminiscing. Some items need replacing while others bring joy to my heart knowing they get one more round.

Preparing for a new baby is a blissful experience to be treasured. So, congratulations to all the expectant Smarty moms and enjoy the process regardless of what side of the “buy or reuse” fence you’re on!

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Momma's got a brand new bag

By Susan

Pocketbook, purse, diaper bag, suitcase...what's holding your junk? Currently, my junk is riding high in my Nest Diaper Bag.

I have the Mercer model in wine. Now before everyone starts sending me hate mail on how expensive this sucker is, let me talk first. It's listed for $385 (yes, ridiculous) but I found it cheaper online elsewhere for $300 and free shipping and no tax so the Nest Diaper Bag Man (Ken) let me have it for that. Just saying. Not all of the Nest Diaper Bags are quite that expensive.


I heart this bag and it loves me right back. It holds my sippy cups, snacks, dipes, wipes, makeup, hairbrush, Blackberry, bib, placemat, wallet, toys, keys, coupons, church envelopes, mail, checkbook, lunch for work days. Best of all, I carry it to the office!

Favorite Features of My New BFF:
(1) lining that unzips so you can throw in the wash
(2) 6 pockets inside - 2 for sippy cups (for Clay & Ella James), 1 for bottle of water (for moi), 1 for Blackberry, 2 for other stuff
(3) zippered inside pocket for makeup, Advil, gum, work badge
(4) roomy interior
(5) removable stroller strap plus 2 handles (although it might tip the stroller over b/c it's a beast)
(6) outside pocket with magnetic closure for coupons, to do list, etc.
(7) zippered compartment at bottom of bag for dipes, wipes, bib, diaper creme, placemat
(8) stylish details like brass "feet"as well as gorgeous suede and brass trim

I searched high and low for a bag that could work as a double agent (office worthy and high functioning diaper bag) because I'm too dumb to effortlessly switch between diaper bag and purse. After the 95th time I left my wallet or Blackberry or work badge in my diaper bag during the purse switcheroo process, something had to change.

I've gotten so many compliments on this bag - all from work people and non-Mommies who just like how it looks. They are floored when I proudly show them that it's a friggin' diaper bag. I can actually hear my husband rolling his eyes right now as I type. He's informed me that people compliment me on it because they think it's so ugly and obnoxious that they have to say something and they obviously aren't going to tell me they hate it. Whatever.

Now that we've covered the upside, let me cover the small downside - nothing but full disclosure here. I may need a chiropracter soon because this bag has it's own zipcode. It is a bit heavy (but not as heavy as my 25 lb 17 month old son so at least I'm balanced now - toddler on one hip and diaper bag on the other).

When it comes to pocketbooks, I'm firmly rooted in the "once-you-go-big, you-never-go-back" camp. I've finally found my true love! I may be addicted and must admit that I do want another one of these bags to add to the mix but I know that's the crazy talking. So for now, I'll just love the one I'm with!

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Trusting your instincts

By Krista

Before I became a mom, I would roll my eyes when my own mother would spout out the words, “a mothers intuition”. What did that mean? How could she just “know” something wasn’t right? Well, four years and four kids later, I believe (and strongly) in a “mothers intuition”. Twice now, my intuition changed the course of my life . . .

One year ago (practically to the day), I started to feel very nervous about my pregnancy. I was carrying a precious baby girl who was due to join our family in the fall. I loved her and felt her every move. Until one day, when her movement became erratic and just plain “off”. I called the doctor and they told me to count her kicks, which I did. She passed this “test” with flying colors and I went on throughout my day. But, not really. In my heart, I felt something wasn’t right. Why did she stop moving for so long? Why did her kicks come and go? Was this normal because she was getting bigger, or was this a sign that something was terribly wrong? My “motherly intuition” nagged me for days. Finally, I insisted I come in for a stress test so the doctors could see on a monitor what I was feeling internally. It was too late. My daughter she was gone from us forever.

That late September day, I vowed never to trust anyone over my “intuition”. After all, my feelings might be wrong, but what if they are right? In this case, they were right and I paid a hefty price for not being more aggressive about following my “intuition”. I’m not saying I could have stopped the horrible tragedy that was ahead of us, I’m just saying I might have been able to do something. What . . . I’m still not sure.

A year later, I followed my instincts (which sent me straight to an emergency c-section where I delivered our twin boy and girl). During this pregnancy I was aggressive, over-involved, and to the point of almost demanding. I requested stress tests even when the doctors didn’t think it was necessary. It was necessary to me. I also requested ultrasounds constantly so I myself could see the heartbeats and flow of blood in and out of their cords. I was my biggest advocate and I was the one who caught a near deadly mistake.

A week ago my twins were born. I went to the doctors office for my weekly stress test. My sons heart rate wouldn’t stay stable. The doctors claimed it was my own heart beat being picked up on the screen, not his. This answer did not sit well with me. Maybe this was the case, but maybe not? I went into Labor and Delivery to be checked out. They couldn’t find his heart rate but kept trying and trying with the monitor. I finally told the nurse they needed to do an ultrasound to see him closer. She was somewhat take aback. I insisted. What they found changed the course of my life, forever. Our son, Quinn, had almost no fluid left. This should have been picked up on the three ultrasounds I had the previous week, but it wasn’t. The doctor looked me straight in the eye and called an emergency c-section. Low fluid can result in umbilical cord injuries. The twins were born hours later.

They are here, early, but here. Our daughter spent five days being cared for in the NICU, our son nine. But, they are here and healthy. My intuition saved them. So, never, ever doubt what your heart says. The worst case is that you could be wrong, but what would happen if your heart was right? As a mother you need to be in charge of your life. Taking charge sometimes means being aggressive when the moment is right.

Smarties, follow your “motherly intuition” . . . it might change the course of your life.

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Fashion with a bump

By Guest Bloggers, Taylor Presson & Allison Bumgardner


When we started having babies five years ago, maternity fashion was just getting started. Today’s new mommies have even more amazing and affordable options than ever before. We spent several afternoons hunting the latest summer and fall fashion “must haves” for Charlotte’s most glamorous mothers to be. It is simply “Fashion with a bump.”

On our personal fashion blog, we took a survey of our readers to find out what was the one item our mommy friends could not live without. Beating out designer jeans and jersey tops was our personal favorite, the Yoga Pant. We were so excited to find the newest discovery, the “Everywhere Pant” from the makers of the Bella Band, Ingrid & Isabel. Ingrid & Isabel have outdone themselves. This pant can be worn over the belly for more support, under the belly or as a skirt that hits mid-waist. We love this option because it covers the ever expanding rear view. The “everywhere pant” retails for $88. Liz Lange for Target has one of our favorite maternity fold over waist yoga pants. Check locally or order online for $29.99. Available in black.

Mommies today are more concerned with living a healthy lifestyle and need more transitional clothes that will take them through their pregnancy and afterwards. Transitional clothes like low rise convertible cargos, tunics and leggings, cardigans with adjustable ties and empire waisted comfy t-shirts. At Destination Maternity, Allison scored a pair of awesome cargos for $29 in the Motherhood line. Layer with a heathered tee ($19.50) and a new cardigan ($34) and you have an outfit you can wear straight through fall. Old Navy Maternity has some super cute jersey wrap cardigans in gray and khaki( $22.50 online) that will take you through your whole pregnancy and after!

All this research led us to a whole new level of maternity denim knowledge. We learned that each designer makes their jeans in a different way. Need more support? Try Citizens of Humanity. Most of their jeans fit “over the belly.” Paige denim specializes in under belly styles and J-Brand has super-cool elastic inserts to stretch with your ever-expanding belly! Destination Maternity buys their denim of choice and adds their own “secret fit belly” bands. Check there for hip denim lines you can’t find anywhere else. Our favorite new style for fall are the super comfy “Jeggings” from Citizens of Humanity. These jeans/leggings will look great for fall with sweaters, long sleeve tees and tunics. You can pair them with mid calf boots and head out the door. We could write a whole article on the great maternity denim from Old Navy. They have “low rise” bootcut jean currently on sale at www.oldnavy.com for $19 or the “full panel” flared leg jeans for $30. Not so sure about “jeggings”, Old Navy has the cutest pair of skinny jeans for $12.97 online!!

The cooler days of fall are here and we couldn't be more excited about the trends that come with it! Keep your eyes out for must-haves like anything with pockets, plaid ruffle shirts, boat neck sweaters and shirts, bold colors and patterns and a refreshing hint of anything tie-died. Whatever the season, maternity clothes are a fun part of the most special times of our life. Why not feel and look great?!

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Love, Hate & the 2 Minute Wait

By Lisa Kuszmar, Charlotte Smarty Pants

Have you ever seen that commercial that starts – one in four women can misread a traditional pregnancy test? Then it proceeds to tell you to purchase the only digital pregnancy test that reads – PREGNANT or NOT PREGNANT. I recall the first time I saw that ad and thought to my self REALLY? That’s ridiculous! I mean how hard is it to read a pink line? You won’t get me to spend $20 on your fancy test. Well I ate those words big time.

Now let me start by saying I have a real love hate relationship with the home pregnancy test. It took me 15 months to conceive and so I have purchased my fair share of ovulation kits, pregnancy tests and contraptions to time my impending pregnancy.

There were so many months that I peed on those silly sticks only to be disappointed. You actually start to dread the next test. You have strange pep talks with yourself in the bathroom. You tell yourself to stay calm and to not over react one way or the other. There is something so defeating and sanity testing about that pink line refusing to show up. You stare and stare and you can actually start to convince yourself that you see something that isn’t there. Well the month that my test actually was positive, I thought I was hallucinating. There is no way that line was there, I shouted for my husband to see if he saw the line. Well he did. It was faint, but it was there. Holy cow; a faint line. Now were we that one in four people who were misreading the test? Should we call family and alert the media? We were torn.

We agreed to tell no one and that day we ran out and purchase that fancy digital test. I need to read the results in English. Well morning number two, we took the test and I saw the world's best word – PREGNANT!!!

Thank goodness for fool proof tests!!

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Pregnancy Isn’t for the Faint of Heart

By Krista W, Charlotte Smarty Pants

This pregnancy is different. I’m twice as tired, twice as hungry, twice as emotional, and yes, I’m carrying twice the babies. We are having twins. Certainly, I feel twice as blessed, but I also feel twice as nervous . . .

For those readers who don’t know, in September of 2009, I gave birth to a little girl named Lily Katherine. Lilly was stillborn five weeks early. Today, we are healing emotionally and nervously excited to welcome two little miracles into our family.

If you think about it, pregnancy isn’t for the faint of heart. I’ve had mine broken one too many times. Even with our thrilling news of twins, I struggle to enjoy every special moment that comes along with pregnancy. I’m scared all the time. Naturally, I fear for my babies’ health. Every day, I pray I will get to hold them in my arms and watch their tiny chests rising up and down with each miraculous breath.

During this pregnancy, I’m doing all the right things (just like I’ve done twice before). I eat well and limit my heavy lifting. I take naps and don’t overexert myself. I’m religious about my daily vitamins, drinking milk, and even talking to my growing bump. What else can I do? The answer, I guess, is to have faith. And, I do. I believe that my story will have a happy ending. It just takes time to overcome old aches and learn to live again.

As the weeks pass I hope to become more confident. I want to start picking out names. I want to dream soft dreams, not harsh nightmares. I’m slowly starting to accept and understand that most pregnancies do end well After all, I need to maintain strength because I have two little gems depending on me.

I know I’m not alone with my concerns and struggles during this pregnancy. There are so many of you out there with your own stories of heartache. Women who have experienced loss and can’t let their minds rest while expecting. I feel for each and everyone of you. We are members of a club that no one ever wants to, or should have to, join.

In addition to the health of the babies, I worry a lot about the day they will be born. It will be a fantastic day full of joy, but also one of reflection. Having given birth to Lily so recently, I will remember her and my experiences in the hospital. It is only natural, right? Certainly I will rejoice, but I’m sure to shed a tear remembering my little one who didn’t come home.

Two babies are blissful and yes, very different to carry. To all you twin mothers out there, you are amazing. I never thought carrying two children would be so tiring, so draining. Nervously and with great excitement, I look forward to life where pregnancy and all its fears are behind me, and in front of me is only the view of all things “twice as nice”.

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When Is the Best Time of Year to Have a Baby?

By Rachel H

Both of my children celebrated their birthdays this month. Their birthdays are just a few days apart, and my husband and I both have birthdays in August, so our summers have always been a lot of fun. It got me thinking about what times of the year are the best times to give birth.

In a perfect world, we’d count back nine to ten months from the month we’d like to give birth, and try to conceive somewhere in that area. But in the real world with miscarriages, infertility, and just bad luck, unfortunately we know that cannot always happen so easily.

Just for kicks and giggles I thought it would be fun to have our readers chime in with their thoughts on the best time of the year to give birth. I will share my viewpoints on June, since I have double the experience with that one!

“Pros” of giving birth in the month of June:

~ You can pretty much do anything you want for birthday parties as they grow older – indoor, outdoor, pool, backyard, etc.
~ It is exactly halfway through the year after Christmas, so just as everyone gets tired of their gifts from the holidays, you are ready to re-stock with presents and weed out the ones that they haven’t played with since December.
~ You don’t have to invite the entire class to a birthday party if you don’t have the funds or the space. No one is talking about the party at school and hurting other kids’ feelings!
~ As far as pregnancy, you get to have a summer baby without carrying an extra 30 pounds throughout the entire summer.
~ When you are preggos, you get to wear a bathing suit and be perfectly comfortable with how much weight you have gained because you are pregnant and you are SUPPOSED to be fat this summer!
~ After the baby arrives, there is not too much of a chance of getting stuck indoors with nothing to do and no visitors. Everyone is out and about, germs are not in full force, and you & baby can get out as well!

“Cons” of giving birth in June:

~ Kids don’t usually get to celebrate their birthday on the actual day at school.
~ Since June is close to the cut-off date for Kindergarten Registration, you will have to deliberate over whether or not to send your child to Kindergarten the fall after they turn five, or wait a year and send them to readiness instead. (Both of mine went straight to Kindergarten after turning five that June, but many of their friends with June birthdays did not.)
~ As far as pregnancy, you don’t get to hide under big sweaters if you are uncomfortable with your weight gain.
~ After you have the baby, you still have two months of summer left where you really don’t want to be caught dead in a bathing suit with your pre-pregnancy body.
~ If it is not your first child, you don’t get the few hours of solitude when the older one is at mom’s morning out or school.

After weighing out my thoughts above, I think June is a great month to give birth!

Now it is your turn to chime in. Please share the month(s) you gave birth and explain why that month is or is not a great month to have a child! If you are unsure how to leave a comment, click here.

Don't forget to register to win a pair of Orthaheel flip flops - a generous offer from Fleet Feet of Winston-Salem. You must be a Triad Smarty Pants newsletter subscriber to be eligible to win. This promotion ends Friday, June 25 and TWO winners will be announced shortly afterwards - just in time for you to sport these sandals at the pool!

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Considering International Adoption?

By Becca A, Forsyth Family magazine blogger

Chances are, you know someone who has adopted a child internationally, or maybe you’re interested in it yourself. Well, for those of you who did not catch my Smarty Mom profile, I am a social worker with Carolina Adoption Services who does homestudies (pre-placement assessments and approvals for adoptive families) for families adopting children from other countries (International Adoption). I am also the mama to three kids. We adopted our youngest child, Sam, from Ethiopia two years ago. So I have personal experience as an adoptive mama, as well as an adoptive sister to three girls from Romania.

TSP asked me to write the following blog on the international adoption process. I have offered a very detailed account, but hopefully it will answer most questions you might have. At the end of this blog, please add any other questions I did not adddress - as well as your comments - so readers can follow along.

The media loves to focus on the negative stories involving adoption, but 99% of adoptive families are happy, healthy, and doing well. I’m going to do my best to explain International Adoption… there’s a lot to cover! In the following paragraphs I’ll cover and explain the terms “homestudy,” “homestudy agency,” “placing agency,” “CIS,” “dossier,” and a few other terms you may have heard in relation to International Adoption.

International adoption can be tricky, and unfortunately, corrupt in a small amount of cases. Countries who open their borders to adoption need to have an adoption infrastructure in place (laws, courts). The adoption agency hired by a family must have a solid relationship with the countries they provide adoption services for (they need to have a license to work in that county). The agency hired by an adoptive family should be Hague accredited, a member of JCICS (Joint Council on International Children’s Services), and accredited by COA. These symbols can be found on their website, or each licensing organization can be researched for a list of member agencies. A list of references should always be on offer from an adoption agency.

A placing agency, in addition to the license obtained by the countries it works in, should be licensed by the state where its main office is located, and it may have offices/licenses in other states as well. A placing agency is the agency that will coordinate the paperwork going to the foreign country (this paperwork is called the DOSSIER) and they will coordinate the matching of and placement of the child adopted by a US family.

In order to move on to the paperwork phase of the adoption, however, a family must have a homestudy. A homestudy, otherwise knows as a Pre-Placement Assessment, is when a social worker comes to the adoptive family’s home for a series of interviews. During these meetings, a family discusses their motivation to adopt, grief situations if dealing with infertility, grief situations if dealing with the loss of children to death, and the level of resolution of grief.

Families of origin are discussed, to know the adoptive family’s background more thoroughly, and also to seek out any abuse patterns that may need to be addressed. We talk about the marriage if the adoptive parents are married (many single people adopt, too), and snoop around the house (just kidding). Really, social workers just have to make sure that a family is legitimate and legal, with no horrible criminal record, and with a well-kept and safe home for a child.

The homestudy requires a set of paperwork similar to that of the DOSSIER, but not always the same. It includes birth/marriage certificates, medical reports, financial reports, proof on insurance, criminal background checks, references, employer letters, and guardianship letters. The homestudy agency guides families through all of this and helps them know how to gather each piece.

A family’s homestudy agency may or may not be the same as their placement agency. For example, Gladney is an agency based and licensed in Texas (and licensed in other states but I’m not sure where, so we’ll use Texas as an example). So, say a family chooses Gladney to be their placing agency to adopt from Ethiopia. If they live in Texas, Gladney can also be their homestudy agency, because they are licensed by the state of Texas. But let’s say they live in the state of Oregon, and Gladney is not licensed to work in the state of Oregon. Well, Gladney can remain their placing agency, but they’ll need to find an agency licensed to do homestudies in the state of Oregon. Let’s say there’s an agency called “Oregon Adoption Services”. That can be their homestudy agency. Once they approve the family to adopt, and write the homestudy report, they send it to Gladney, the placing agency. Gladney handles the rest of the adoption.

While the homestudy is taking place, the family files an application with the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (CIS), because they will be bringing an immigrant into the country. Once your application is at your state CIS office, you will be given a fingerprint appointment date. Once your fingerprints are done, and once your homestudy agency sends your completed homestudy to the CIS office, your file will be considered complete.

Then the CIS official will approve you (or not) to bring an immigrant orphan child into the country. You may not adopt internationally without this approval. Once you receive this approval, that piece of paper becomes part of your DOSSIER to be sent to the country you adopt from. CIS also sends a cable to the US Embassy in the country you adopt from, so that the Embassy knows that you have been granted US permission to bring a child into the US from that country.

Once homestudy is completed, the write-up becomes part of the DOSSIER. This group of papers represents a family to the governing body of the foreign country. The placing agency assists families in gathering documents for the Dossier. Each country has different requirements for what is included in the Dossier. The documents are very similar to what is needed for the homestudy. So there is some overlap, yet they are two distinct piles of paper.

The dossier is made official by the family’s state of residence, the US government, and the foreign government’s Embassy. The stack of papers forming the dossier is sent to each of the above places to have an official, stamped paper added to each of the original papers. This is called authentication of the Dossier, and that is what shows the country that each paper is authentic and official.

Once the Dossier arrives in the foreign country, it represents the family to that government. The placing agency will have staff members who live and work in that country. They will handle the dossier in order to match the family to a child who meets the standards of abandonment or the official definition of an “orphan” (as defined by both that country and the US gov’t) in order to only match each family with a child who truly needs to be adopted. This way corruption is largely avoided, because these standards are checked thoroughly and systematically.

Once a family is approved to bring a child home, the homestudy agency takes back over (if different from the placing agency) to do post-adoption visits and reports. These visits are to check on the family and child, and to provide support. It is also required that agencies send reports to the child’s country of origin, to let them know how the child is doing. Post-adoption reports are also filed with the family’s state of residence, so that they may obtain paperwork for the child based in state (such as a birth certificate with the child’s new family name) and a SS#. The homestudy agency guides you through all of this.

As many of you can guess, the costs of all these services really add up, not to mention the traveling to and from the country of adoption. For these reasons, adoption can cost between $20-$30 thousand dollars.

This part is pretty personal for each adoptive family. There are many ways to fund raise, and many grant and loan opportunities for adoptive families. Adoption agencies are great with connecting families with such organizations and financial resources to help pay the various fees. Also, the US government does give a tax credit for adoption, and families can learn more about this on the IRS website or through their agency’s website. This often helps families to pay back loans more quickly.

I hope this helps to explain the complex nature of the International Adoption process. I urge you to support those around you who are adopting a child, and thank those of you who already do.

Becca also keeps a personal blog about her family's adoption journey, plus related articles. You can catch up with Becca on her blog Expanding the Albertsons.

Got a kid who loves soccer? Looking for another summer camp idea?You have until Noon today to register here to win a $100 gift certificate to Triad Elite Soccer Club! Giveaway ends TODAY at Noon!

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Do You Deserve a Push Present?

By Rachel H

A few weeks ago, a group of my girlfriends got into a discussion about "push presents." If you have never heard this term before, it refers to a gift given to a mom (usually by the dad) after giving birth to a child. These presents are traditionally jewelry or a trip.

Well, the discussion got very heated with many different opinions and I could not believe how passionate some people were about this topic! Wow! We had one end of the spectrum with mothers who felt that the gift was well-deserved after nine months of carrying the baby and hours of delivery. They felt that the gift was not only deserved, but expected.

Then we had a group who thought the push present was the most ridiculous thing they had ever heard of and that the child should be present enough. This group also felt that the final "gift" of pregnancy was something that was deserved by both parents, and that a healthy child was a perfect gift.

But what about the people who tried umpteen times to have a baby and went through years and years of heartache? Another group of my girlfriends thought this group deserved a present.

Then there was my friend who said the husband was the one who deserved a gift for putting up with her crankiness for nine months!

Needless to say, I thought this would be a perfect hot topic for today. I would love to hear what you all think about a push present. Have you heard of this before? Or better yet, had your husband heard of this before? Did you get one? If so, what was it? It you didn't get one, were you disappointed?

Chime in below and if you are unsure of how to leave your comment, click here to find out how. And PLEASE remember to treat others' comments with respect! Remember ... to each his own!

Tomorrow is your last chance to register for our bonus giveaway with "Send Out Cards". Everyone wins, so why not sign up? You could save more than $50 in greeting cards. Click here for all the details.

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Baby Shower Gifts to Make Momma Smile!

By Rachel H

When your first friend finds out she’s pregnant, it creates a snowball effect. Before you know it, everyone is having babies, which also means everyone is having baby showers! Whether you are attending a shower for a first-time mom, a veteran mom, or a mom of an adopted child, you want your gift to be one that is not only appreciated, but remembered!

I have gathered an assortment of unique baby shower gifts that I wanted to share with you. I also emailed a few friends, and want to thank to Ann, Sally and Angie for telling me about your favorite gifts that you received at your showers!

Readers, please add your favorite gifts at the end of this post!

The Ultimate Crib Sheet
I never had one of these, but I must have missed out. The sheet snaps on so that you don’t have to pull everything apart when you change the crib sheets. And we all know that the changing of the sheets happens way more often than we would like! No need for a mattress cover when you use this.


The Floor Nanny
We did a giveaway with this product last summer and it is still one of my favorite things for new moms! This is a great group gift. We gave one to a friend of mine who had twins, and I cannot tell you how cute those little babies looked all snuggled up in this Floor Nanny. It is a safe place for babies to sleep, play, and explore while Mom gets things done!

Personalized Items
You can choose an item off the registry, or pick up a blanket, bib, burp cloth, onesie, etc. to have it monogrammed. This adds such a special touch to a gift and makes mom smile the first time she sees her baby’s name written on something! A few of our favorite places to have outside items monogrammed are Designs N' Stitches in Greensboro, The Logo Shop in High Point, Patti McCormick in Winston www.mimismonograms.blogspot.com (Pmccormick@triad.rr.com), Monogramming Momma Melissa Maltzahn in Winston (mamaltzahn@gmail.com), and Harry Smidgepodge on Main Street in Jamestown (336-254-8328). PLUS, I got a sneak peak at the Buckhead Betties sale, which starts tomorrow, and they have the most adorable bibs and other baby items that can be monogrammed on the spot at the sale! Stock up on some shower gifts while you are there!

The Padalily
I mentioned this in my show and tell blog a few weeks ago. This is a carseat handle pad that keeps your poor arms and hands from hurting while toting around your bundle of joy. They are adorable and come in an assortment of patterns. You can check them out on the website above, or they are also sold all over the Triad in boutique shops like Hip Chics, Gazoodles, Polliwogs, Splurges, and Taji Baby.

Childcare
This is a great gift for moms who are having a second or third child. You can make a coupon book with coupons for babysitting from you, or pick up a gift certificate from an hourly child care center like BiziKidz, KidSpot, or Drop-N-Play. We reviewed a few of these in this blog. * Note that the W-S BiziKidz is now KidSpot, but the GSO and Burlington BiziKidz are still available.

Meals
Homemade meals from friends are great once the baby arrives, so at the shower you can choose to have guests sign up for meals and dates to deliver. Another option is gift certificates from Dream Dinners, Sociale Gourmet, or Let’s Dish.

Spooneez
These are the coolest way for moms to tote spoons, and other feeding accessories without leaving a huge mess in the bottom of a diaper bag! Spooneez come in travel size (which are even great for toothpaste and brushes), mini size, and even matching bibs! You can read more about Spooneez on the website above or our previous blog here.

Stationary
If mom already knows the sex and/or name, personalized stationary is the way to go! Calling cards, thank you notes, note cards, tags, etc. are all available at local stationary stores. I also loved the "Notes for Babysitter" notepad with our last name on it. So cute!

Coming home basket
This is a fabulous idea from the group. Each guest is asked to bring one specific item baby needs...Vaseline, cotton balls, alcohol (rubbing), teething ring, outlet covers, diaper rash cream, comb, tylenol, ibuprofen, baby vicks, clippers, travel wipes, disposable baby spoons, nursing journal, formula travel dispenser, sunscreen, car shades, the list goes on and on. These are all combined into the “coming home basket” and presented to mom at the shower. It saves a ton of money for the mom to be and she will already have the emergency stuff you didn’t know about!

1-800-diapers
Why not schedule a delivery for the mom to be? You can never, ever, have too many diapers! If you have used this service below, let us know what you thought about it by commenting below.

A Big Ol' Tub of Jelly Bellies
Costco is one of my favorite places ever, and they carry this huge tub of Jelly Belly candy. What could make mom happier than a sweet treat to satisfy those cravings? You can also play a "guess the number of jelly bellies" game with this and give a prize to the winner at the shower.

Of course gift cards for the store where the mom-to-be is registered are always much appreciated. If you are currently expecting your first child, scroll down the left side of our website and click on the “pregnancy,” “age 0-1” or “gear” categories for links that will give you more great ideas of baby items that are must-haves! We have some fantastic ideas to put on your registry.

We would also love to run a few blogs on unique and creative baby shower ideas. Have you thrown a shower that was truly unique? Have you come up with different games other than the usual measuring the belly with toilet paper or taste-testing baby food? If so, we would love for you to be a guest blogger on TSP! Email us at triadsmartypants@gmail.com and we'll get you started!

And of course, tell us about your favorite baby shower gifts by leaving a comment below!

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Work + Pregnancy = Job Security?

By Tracy S, Charlotte Smarty Pants

Almost one year ago I wrote about when do you tell work you're pregnant and it sparked some interesting side conversations that I thought I would write about this time.

So ... if you recall, I mentioned a friend of mine was worried about telling her employer she was pregnant. Aside from the points mentioned in my previous post, she feels she has a whole other element to worry about. She is concerned with her job stability in this tough economic environment. She works for a company that is potentially looking to make wide sweeping cuts and is worried about becoming a target. We discussed this for a while and concluded that her paranoid hormones were partially to blame. We both know that technically you can't get laid off just because you are pregnant, and she has a proven track record of success so in theory, she should not have anything to worry about.

On the flip side, I had a situation when I was recently getting ready to go out on maternity leave. There was a job opening within my department, that given normal circumstances (i.e. if I wasn't 9 months pregnant and getting ready to take 4 months off) would have been my ideal job. I discussed this with my boss and asked if there was any way they would still consider me for the position. Again, I could barely belly up to the table we were discussing this at because I was so hugely pregnant. So while I knew they couldn't technically factor that into the interview process, I could not ignore the fact that I was asking for something that I could not commit to for another 4 months or so. My boss was overly careful not to even mention my pregnancy in any of those discussions and encouraged me to apply for the job. Ironically labor contractions started at the exact time of my first interview! To me that felt like a sign that the timing just wasn't right personally and I pulled out of the running.

So, while I work for a very large company that is extremely sensitive to lawsuits, some may even say you actually gain job security when you are pregnant. However, I have heard of some instances where women ARE impacted at work the minute they announce they are pregnant - whether directly or indirectly or maybe even unintentional, it does happen.

So I thought I would do a little digging into what the laws are. Before I go any further, I just want to say - I am by no means an expert on any of this!! I know the laws vary based on employer as well as your individual status within a company (i.e. how many hours you work/how long you've been there). I strongly suggest you check with your HR department if you have any questions specific to your own situation or check out the links provided below.

You've probably heard of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), but if you're like me, you may not know exactly what it means or what you are entitled to. In a nutshell, FMLA provides eligible employees with up to 12 work weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave a year. Many employees also provide your normal pay for a portion of this time or you may be eligible for short term disability pay. FMLA also requires group health benefits to be maintained during the leave as if employees continued to work instead of taking leave (you do have to continue to pay your portion during the leave).

FMLA applies to your company if there are over 50 employees within 75 miles of the worksite, and at least 50 of your employees work 20 or more work-weeks in the current or preceding calendar year. If your company is a public agency, you are subject to provide FMLA regardless of the number of employees employed. All schools, private or public, are considered public agencies.

To be eligible for FMLA leave, an employee must work for a covered employer, have worked for that employer for at least 12 months; and have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12 months prior to the start of the FMLA leave.

For more detailed information, check out this site: http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/fmla

Hopefully this is helpful information if you are in a situation where you are pregnant and concerned with your status at work. If anyone has any additional information that would be beneficial, please share!

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Cord Blood Banking

By Dana D, Charlotte Smarty Pants

As a pregnant woman, I see advertisements all the time for cord blood banking. I am nearing the end of this pregnancy so I am definitely more aware of this because I haven’t really decided what I am going to do. It all seems a little controversial. I did not do this for my twins and I always felt a little guilty about it. My OB at the time didn’t recommend cord blood banking. He said that we were better off putting that money toward the boys’ college education. It was all very new at that time and he didn’t feel there had been enough research. He also had made a good point that there was no regulation in regard to these banks and who knows if they would even be around in a few years. This seems to be the general consensus among physicians. I have spoken to several obstetricians who feel the same way. I have also read several articles where the American Medical Association was cited as saying it feels it could be a waste of money.

All of the above concerns private cord blood “banking“. It appears everyone is in “favor” of donating the cord blood to a public “bank” if you will. Cord blood can be used to treat a variety of diseases, for example leukemia, but again, many Ob’s say it hasn’t turned out to be as successful as they had anticipated. There is around a one in 20,000 chance that you would use this for your child. The cost is thousands of dollars. They say the real value is donating to a public bank that can be utilized by many.

Of course, the private cord blood banks play and tug on your heartstrings. It makes me feel terrible to think, “what if something happened to one of my children and I hadn’t banked the cord blood?”

I am reaching out to you Smarties to see what your views and opinions are regarding this topic. I would also love to hear why you did or didn’t store the cord blood. Again, donating the cord blood is highly recommended if you don’t bank yours. It appears that a high percentage of mothers are unaware of this option and the majority is discarded as medical waste. We would also love to hear what bank you used if you did bank your cord blood and why you chose that particular one. There are several out there these days.

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Lyndhurst Gyn ... Like a Family

By Guest Blogger Beth W

My journey with Lyndhurst Gynecologic Associates began 18 years ago as I was prepared to get married and realized my days of visits to the pediatrician were over. I needed an OB/GYN. My fiancé was coaching YMCA basketball at the time and this “cute first grade girl” whose dad was a doctor (Dr. Pollard) was on his team. He said I should give him a call…and the rest is history.

After three years of marriage it was time to start a family. Dr. Pollard was encouraging. We thought, “Great ! Let’s do this!!” Well, of course, as many of you know, it was not that easy. So a year later we were referred to Dr. Parker and his WONDERFUL nurse, Kathy Poole, who are the infertility gurus at Lyndhurst. After two years of pills, shots, dye tests, etc., we got the news that we were going to be parents. This was how my journey and relationship with Lyndhurst began. There were the girls in the insurance department who were so kind, and we became friends on a first name basis. There was Linda at check out who would cheer me up when I would walk out in tears. And there were many others who were always there with a smile, comforting hug, and an encouraging word.

Those next nine months were filled with fear, questions, elation, and many emotions. The staff at Lyndhurst was always patient and caring. Dr. Parker and Kathy Poole took the time to make me feel like I was the only patient they had. On December 12, 1997, Dr. Parker delivered our son, Jim!! My first stop after leaving the hospital was Lyndhurst, so I could show Jim to my Lyndhurst family.

A year later we wanted to go for number two! It was back to the “infertility gurus” to start the process again, and to our surprise, it happened quicker and easier this time This comforted pregnancy resulted in the birth of our daughter Maggie, born January 3, 2000. This birth was just as wonderful as my first, but was followed with a horrible dose of post partum after coming home from the hospital. How could this be? My life was complete. I remember Dr. Parker and Dr. Pollard calling to check on me, and Kathy Poole coming to my home to make sure I was OK. Once again “my Lyndhurst family” rallied around me.

When our children were three and one my husband said let’s go for number three. At that point I was feeling overwhelmed with motherhood and because it was so easy to get pregnant the second time I said let’s wait. I thought it will not be a problem to get pregnant, so a year later we decided it was time.

Or course, it did not come easily and once again I found myself in the throws of that painful journey of infertility. For three years, “my Lyndhurst family” was there again to walk with me. I kept thinking I should not feel this way, I have two beautiful children, but sometimes I felt like it was even harder this go around. Kathy was there every step of the way. She listened to me cry, justified my feelings, and went with me to get cokes at The Loop, dinners at Diamondback, and long walks. She listened and encouraged me. I became very close to many other staff members at Lyndhurst as well. After those three years of trying, we decided to call it quits. I still did not feel like my family was complete but we knew we had done all we could medically and financially. Over the next 8 months I found myself sad about not being pregnant and also missed “my family” at Lyndhurst.

Well, we all know that God can have a sense of humor and my husband had always been adamant that he did not want children after he was 40. Well, with his 40th birthday only two weeks away, I discovered I WAS PREGNANT. No doctors or drugs were needed. Two days after his 40th birthday, we were getting ready for church when Kathy called from work and asked if I wanted to come in and see if we could see a heartbeat. Of course, I was out the door as quick as possible and told my family I would see them at church.

It was pure joy to lie on the exam table and look at the little heart beat blinking at me. As we were finishing up, I hear Kathy say oh my gosh and panic overtook me, what she said next was, look here and look here... two heartbeats. A double portion, twins!! When I arrived at church all my husband and I could do was laugh!!!

The next eight months were pure bliss as we waited for the twins to be born. On September 9, it was a big party in the OR. It was by far the most memorable day of my life. All my favorite people were there. Dr. Parker and Dr. Pollard were there to deliver, Dr. Washburn was on call and came in to “hang out” Kathy Poole, was there to video, and that “cute first grader”, Dr. Pollard’s daughter took the day off from med school to be there. Around noon our identical daughters were born. We had not picked out names yet and my husband has always been insistent on using family names. We stayed true to that tradition, because as I have said, Lyndhurst became family and one of the twins, Kathryn Chandler, is named after Kathy Poole.

Almost four and a half years have passed since that day, and my visits are not as frequent to Lyndhurst, but they remain family. My twins and I like to go by from time to time to get M&M’s from Kathy Poole or candy from Ms. Pam. Dr. Parker’s daughter is our twins #1 babysitter, and my two older children were in Dr. Pollard’s daughter’s wedding last year. Looking back, there were days that it was hard to put one foot in front of the other as I yearned to have children. Yet, if I had not gone through those experiences I would have never developed the friendships at Lyndhurst Gyn. I do not know if there are many doctors’ offices like this one, but I do know that Lyndhurst is truly a special place!!!

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Breastfeeding Classes

By Rachel H

Breastfeeding: Keeping it Simple
Sign up now for classes beginning in 2010 at Lyndhurst Gynecological Associates.

The class is taught by Lauri Cox,FNP, IBCLC. It is designed to help you achieve breastfeeding success. You will learn the basics of breastfeeding, answers to common questions, and solutions to common problems...

Classes are as follows:
February 6th, 9 a.m. – 12 noon
April 10th, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
May 1st, 9 a.m. – 12 noon
June 12th, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
July 10th, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
September 11th, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
October 23rd, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
December 4th, 9 a.m. – 12 noon

Location:
Lyndhurst Gynecological Associates
2927 Lyndhurst Avenue
Winston-Salem, NC

Cost: $ 25

Please call Lauri Cox for registration details @ 336-462-2986 or email lcox@lyndhurstgyn.com. Space is limited.

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What I Didn't Do the Second Time Around

By Jenny D., Charlotte Smarty Pants



I just had a beautiful baby girl, Annie, in September. Three years and one week after my first girl, Zoe. And the second go around, I noticed that I did things a little differently, actually there were some things that I didn’t do at all.

With Annie, I didn’t worry about all of the gear. I used a diaper bag for about 4 weeks, but it was half the size of my first one, and all I included was a couple of diapers, wipes, and changing pad. With Zoe, I had enough stuff to last us through the weekend if I ever got stranded at the mall for that long.


I don’t worry about schedules. Annie slept through the night early on, but now she has decided to wake up at 3:00 in the morning. With Zoe, I would have been worried that I was doing something wrong, but this time, although I am exhausted, I love seeing her smile at me when I give her a bottle in the middle of the night.

I don’t worry about keeping the house so quiet during naptime. When Zoe was a baby, you could hear a pin drop anytime she was asleep. You quickly realize that it is virtually impossible to get your older child to be quiet when the baby is sleeping, so your newborn learns to sleep through anything.

I guess I just don’t worry as much overall. And it shows. Annie is a laid back baby, and I am sure that it has something to do with the fact that I am more relaxed. And because of it, I have enjoyed every minute of the newborn stage. Having gone through it once before, I am aware of how quickly they change, so instead of wondering when I am going to get my life back, I just sit and stare at her happy little face as much as I can.

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Shopping for a Stroller? Read This!

By Katie M

Let me start out by saying, “Don’t do what I did!” When I had my first child almost six years ago, I did not put any emphasis on buying a good stroller. I don’t think I even registered for one, and despite the fact that we received enough gift cards from Babies R’ Us to more than pay for a great stroller, we opted to use that money towards other things we thought were more important (probably diapers!).

Buying a stroller is an overwhelming process, to say the least. There are so many considerations, styles, prices, brands, and features that your head will spin! If you are trying to keep your research simple, I would suggest starting your search with the Baby Bargains book, www.consumerreports.org, and by simply talking to professionals at stores like Babies R’ Us. If money is not a concern, you can always check out the latest models at trendy baby boutiques too.

The following is my story which offers some suggested brands and styles, and some to steer clear of. Regardless, hopefully my decisions – and lack of – will better help you in your stroller search.

Like I mentioned above, I did little research on strollers before Emily was born. I did look at some “travel systems” because it seemed like everyone I knew had one. But I never thought they looked user-friendly and I am not the kind of person who deals well with lots of buttons, snaps and instructions when I need something to work quickly and often. As luck would have it, Jen P (of Charlotte Smarty Pants) let me borrow her Baby Trend Snap N’ Go stroller the whole time Emily was in her infant car seat. The Snap N’ Go (or similar model like the Graco SnugRider), in my humble opinion, should be on the top of every new mom’s must-have lists. Not only are these “frames” super inexpensive (between $50 and $60), but they’re incredibly light, and a cinch to pop open, fold up and put in the back of your car. They also have plenty of room below for storage, and some even come with cup holders for mom!

Then when Emily grew out of the Snap ‘N Go, my husband’s sister passed down her Maclaren stroller which, to me, was just a glorified umbrella stroller. Again it didn’t matter to me at the time because as new parents adjusting to living on one salary, we were both immensely grateful not to have to invest in a new stroller. So we stuck with the Maclaren.

However, not getting a more functional stroller was a huge mistake on my part. Don’t get me wrong, Maclaren is a great brand. As far as convenience, it was the ticket. Super light. Easy to fold and unfold. Not bulky at all in the back of a car. But the stroller we had wasn’t suited for what we needed it for. It was better for quick trips with the baby or as a back-up stroller when traveling (it works great in aiports!). On top of that, it had no tray for sippee cups or finger foods. And for some reason, our stroller had no storage. None, zip. Not sure if the lack of the tray and storage bin was because it was an old model, or a result of it being a hand-me-down. (The models on its web site look much more functional than what I had).

But the worst part of our stroller: Emily was constantly in the reclined position and I couldn’t adjust it otherwise. So as a result, she never became a “stroller baby” – something that drove me – and my mom – crazy because it was impossible to take her shopping – or anywhere in a stroller – for more than 15 minutes.

Then my son came along. He too used a Snap ‘N Go, and then we moved both kids into a Joovy Caboose stroller - our mode of transport for nearly two years. I think the tandem model is a novel idea, however, I’m not sure I’m sold on Joovy. Maybe it’s just my stroller, but more often than not its wheels are IMPOSSIBLE to maneuver.

So what should you consider when buying a stroller? Obviously don’t follow my steps! According to Consumer Reports.org, you should consider the following:

1. Select the stroller yourself. Only you know what will work for you, and what you feel comfortable with.

2. Know your lifestyle, and use that as a guide. Obviously if you live in a busy city, you'll need a stroller that folds quickly and is compact. Here in the Triad, you could probably go for a bigger stroller. Or if you’re athletic, you might want to consider a jogging or all-terrain stroller.

3. Don’t go by price alone. Lots of variables go into the price and you need to determine what’s important to you first, then consider the price. Bigger-ticket strollers might have more amenities than lower priced models, but those less expensive strollers may serve you just as well. The average price of a good-quality stroller starts at about $250.

4. Take it for a test drive. Even if you plan to buy online, find the model in a local store and take it for a spin. Compare maneuverability and ease of use. Make sure the height is suitable for you – and your spouse. Give it a jiggle and make sure the frame feels solid.

5. Take your baby’s age into consideration. Remember newborns can't sit up until about six months old, so be sure the stroller reclines for babies of this age.

6. Check certification. Make sure the certification sticker shows that the stroller meets the minimum requirements of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) voluntary standard, and that its manufacturer takes part in the certification program administered by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). Companies that are certified are: Baby Trend, Britax, Bugaboo, Delta Enterprise, Dorel Juvenile Group, Evenflo, Go-Go Babyz, Graco, Hauck Fun for Kids, J. Mason, Joovy, Kolcraft, Maclaren, Mia Moda, and Peg-Pérego.

7. Evaluate the warranties and return policies. Your best bet is to purchase the stroller from a store, catalog, or web site that offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

And what are the hot sellers? According to the latest Baby Bargain book, the following are their favorite picks:

Mall Crawlers
Baby Trend Snap N’ Go ($60) or
Graco SnugRider ($60)

Travel Systems
The authors actually advise against these models, but if pushed they recommend Chicco Cortina ($300)

Second Strollers
Evenflo X-Sport Plus ($50) or
Chicco C6 - also known as Capri ($65)or
the Maclaren Volo ($100 - $130)

High-end picks
Baby Jogger City Mini ($230)
or Maclaren Techno XLR ($350)

*Baby Bargain also gives picks for other types of strollers, including urban jungle, green acre, exercise, and double strollers.

I hope this information helps. Let us know what your favorite stroller is, and why!

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Smarty Pick for a Diaper Bag

By Ashley H, Charlotte Smarty Pants

As a first time mom, the diaper bag was one of those baby items that I took some time in selecting. For me personally, it needed to be affordable, roomy (for twins), functional and stylishly simple so my husband could share in lugging the load with me (i.e. no adorable swirly-girlie polka dotted fabric). I settled on the Pottery Barn Kids Ultimate Diaper Bag and have no regrets!

I love the padded messenger bag style of my diaper bag, it allows me to handle the twins hands free or wear it just over one shoulder. Options, I love options. The two exterior pockets were great for the bottle days & are still fabulous for throwing in two sippy cups and getting out the door. This bag is made of rugged, wipe-clean polyester and has magnetic pocket closures for one-handed use. Inside it's roomy with lots of pockets and comes with a wipe-clean changing pad. It's a bag that Marcus or I could carry and we've been perfectly happy with it from day one. Now just two short years later they no longer carry it (that's PBK for you), but I think their new Camden bag is somewhat similar.

Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to a diaper bag. What features and options did you look for, and what's your overall Smarty diaper bag recommendation?!

Don't forget to register for our October Giveaway - a $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography. Click here to learn more about Zoe Zen and register.

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Moms - Take Care of Yourself

By Chrissy McCullough, Physical Therapist at Lyndhurst Gynecologic Associates

Chrissy is a physical therapist specializing in the field of Women's Health. She received her Master's degree in physical therapy from Texas Woman's University in Dallas, Texas, and shortly after graduation, she opened a successful practice in the Dallas area where she treated women with chronic whole body and pelvic pain, prenatal and postpartum pain, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and more.

Along with her husband, Heath, and 2-year-old daughter, Eva, she relocated to Winston-Salem in July of 2008 in order for Heath to complete a residency in Radiology at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. They are currently expecting another little girl, Zoe, in mid-November. She recently began treating patients at Lyndhurst OB/GYN and is absolutely loving it! She has shared some fantastic tips today for moms when we need to take some time for ourselves.

When you’re a mom, the days are long and the nights are short. You rarely take time for yourself and often that time might mean hiding in a corner to quickly eat a cookie before your 2-year-old catches you crying “Want some!”. Here are a few tips to get you through those crazy days and to help you get back to the pre-baby calm, cool and collected diva you once were:

BREATHE: When we’re busy finding lost binkies, cleaning high chairs, planning meals and intellectually stimulating growing minds as creatively as possible we often don’t take a moment to breathe. Breathing for relaxation (the most common technique is called diaphragmatic breathing) has a profound impact on the body by reducing our anxiety and tension. This type of breathing relaxes muscles, increases blood flow and helps us to regain the focus and strength needed to continue to face the day. Make a daily appointment with yourself to practice this for 5 minutes. Good times to schedule this mini relaxation are as soon as nap time begins or right before you gear up for “second shift” (i.e. after afternoon snack, before dinner plans commence).

Lie on your back in a comfortable, supported position. You may want to rest in a recliner or on a bed with pillows under your head, arms and legs. Place one hand on your belly and one on your chest. Close your eyes. Inhale through your nose letting your belly rise into your hand while your chest remains still. Gently exhale through your nose or mouth letting your belly fall. Repeat for 5 minutes. To make sure you devote adequate time to unwinding and re-energizing, you may want to set a timer for those 5 minutes (a kitchen timer or the “time out” timer work perfectly).

LOOSEN UP: Months of cooking dinner for your family with a toddler on one hip and a phone crammed between your ear and shoulder wreaks havoc on your body. A few simple stretches can help reverse these painful positions we often find ourselves in. A great time to fit these in is when you’re in the shower, your body is warm and no-one is hanging on you.

Shoulder Blade Squeeze: Stand with your weight evenly distributed on your feet and clasp your hands together behind your bottom. Let your shoulders fall away from your ears and squeeze your shoulder blades together. Imagine your chest opening and your shoulder blades sliding across your back. Hold for 3 seconds, repeat 3 times.

Ironing Board: Stand with your hands on a counter top or, if you tend to be on the less flexible side, on a wall at shoulder height. Walk your feet back as you tilt your bottom toward the ceiling. Continue walking backward and hinging at your hips until your head, arms and back are in a straight line (“ironing board”), you will feel a pull in your calves and/or hamstrings. Hold this stretch for 5 deep breaths then walk back toward the wall to come out of it.

Standing Back Bend: Stand with your weight evenly distributed on your feet and place your hands on your bottom as if putting your hands in back pockets. Gently and slightly press your hips forward as you arch your low back and, if comfortable, look up letting your head fall back. Hold for 3 seconds, repeat 3 times.

STRETCH YOUR LEGS AND GET SOME FRESH AIR: With the beautiful fall season creeping upon us, plan at least one daily activity that takes you and your little ones outside. A great idea to get you moving is to go on a nature walk around your neighborhood. For older children try to find items that start with a letter or color of your choosing, for younger children see how many dogs, cats, birds, etc. you can find. This exercise is a great soul refresher for you and will help your children to appreciate the world around them!

So, the next time you find yourself painstakingly planning organic, all-natural, balanced yet tasty meals and snacks for your children while you dig in your purse on the way to gymnastics realizing you forgot to eat breakfast and hoping that the fruit snacks you find have some sort of nutritional value to them, remember the simple exercises above. Your mind and your body will thank you.

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Breastfeeding: One of the most important decisions a new mom makes

By Cherrie Welch, M.D., M.P.H. Neonatologist and Pediatrician at Brenner Children’s Hospital

One of a mother's first decisions is "Should I breastfeed my new baby?" There are many opinions as to what choice a new mom should make. As a pediatrician and neonatologist, I am always encouraging new mothers to breastfeed their infants. In my opinion, it’s one of the most important first decisions a new mom makes and can significantly impact how a baby develops and grows.

There have been numerous public health campaigns to increase awareness of the health benefits for breastfeeding mother and baby diads. In spite of these efforts, only 60%of mothers nationally even attempt to breastfeed and many fewer continue breastfeeding their infant for six months ... the minimum time recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

To highlight just a few of the benefits, infants who are breastfed are less likely to develop infections during infancy, as well as a variety of other serious disorders throughout their lifetime, including:

 Type 1 diabetes
 Type 2 diabetes
 Lymphoma and leukemia
 Obesity
 High cholesterol
 Asthma

In addition, children who were breastfed have been found, on average, to have a slightly higher IQ than those children who were fed only formula.

Researchers at Brenner Children’s Hospital, part of Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, continue to study the health benefits of mother’s milk, particularly for infants born prematurely. A study is currently underway to investigate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids, an important component of breast milk, on the developing gastrointestinal tract. Another study is being conducted to determine the effect of breast milk on the maturation of brain waves in preterm infants.

New moms should seek the advice of other breastfeeding mothers, their primary care physicians and lactation consultants to help with feeding issues during the early months. Stick with it. New moms who learn to breastfeed and continue for a month are on the road to success.

Another potential issue is milk production. It is very rare for a mother to physically not be able to breastfeed her infant. One potential reason for an inability to produce milk is prior breast surgery, although many women who have had breast surgery can successfully breastfeed. If a woman can physically not produce milk, then, of course formula or pasteurized human milk from a donor milk bank are acceptable alternatives. Frustration with breastfeeding can also contribute to a mom’s ability to continue to breastfeed, as well as lack of sleep and the demands of caring for a newborn. A lactation consultant can provide tips on how to overcome these issues and help a new mom on her way to successful breastfeeding.

For women with large or inverted nipples, there are now several aids available to help the baby latch on and lactation consultants can teach mothers how to use these. If the baby cannot latch on with these, a mother should consider pumping her breasts and providing the breast milk via bottle. One of the many great things about breast milk is that it is free!

One of the main factors influencing a woman’s decision to breastfeed is the support she has from family and friends to do so. Most mothers make this decision during, or even prior to, the pregnancy. However, research has shown that mothers who initially decide against it can be encouraged to successfully breastfeed and thus provide their infant with all of the known, and yet unknown, benefits of nature’s best infant nutrition. Some breast milk is better than none. Many mothers see breastfeeding as an all or nothing game, but infants can attain benefit from even small amounts of their mother’s milk.

And just because a mother wasn’t successful breastfeeding her first child, does not mean that she shouldn’t try breastfeeding subsequent children. Each child is different. I would encourage new mothers to try again. They might be surprised with the results.

It takes patience and a willingness to try, but the rewards are endless.

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