"Intense" attitude study correlates nearly 1 in 4 moms being depressed

Join me parents, in generating awareness of the findings revealed by this smart new study that looks at how mothers’ attitudes about parenting affect their mental well being, and their risk for depression and anxiety.

Based on the hyper sensitive concept of “intense parenting” – the belief that everything you do matters sooo much – might actually explain this “parenting paradox” quite well.      

In my opinion, this study of (181 mothers of children 5 years old or less) is concise and refreshing because it offers five factors to encapsulate the correlations and may inspire the potential to let go just a bit (heck just choose one at a time, because if you are intense like me you just might try to give up all 5 overnite and then wearily claim defeat!)



intense parenting or whimsy?

 •Essentialism is the feeling that mothers, over fathers, are the more “necessary and capable” parent.
 
•Fulfillment in parenting is defined by beliefs like “a parent’s happiness is derived primarily from their children.”
 
•Stimulation is the idea that you, the mother, should always provide the best, most intellectually stimulating activities to aid in your child’s development.
 
•Challenging is, as you might guess, the idea that parenting is just about the most difficult job there is (participants ranked statements like, “It is harder to be a good mother than to be a corporate executive”)
 
. •And Child-Centered refers to the idea that kids’ needs and wants should always come before your own.
 
Interestingly, the higher the women scored on these factors, the higher their intensity as mothers. The authors also looked at social support the mothers got from their families, and whether they were depressed, stressed, and how generally satisfied with their lives they were. Although there were various correlations to each; across the board, about 23% of the mothers in the study were depressed, which is quite a bit higher than the rate of depression in the general public (which is about 6.7%, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health). Wow--- nearly 1 out of 4!
 
I appreciate this perspective from Forbes columnist, Alice Walton: It’s so easy to feel that every little thing we do will have a make-or-break effect on our kids’ development or success in life. But it’s important to remember that this just isn’t true. Putting our own mental health right up there with our kids’ – perhaps even first – is probably the best way to go. Since kids are so highly intuitive, working on own happiness and mental health is the best thing we can do – though it’s easier said than done, it’s probably the best legacy we can leave.

Keep reading... if you dare...YOU may just find a bit more humor, whimsy and find a deep seeded longing of joy in the midst of the mama journey...
  

attachment parenting in theory

In my short years as a parent there is so much about this perspective and these 5 factors that resonate in my soul. My family legacy of steadfast hard work from midwest farming and being raised by a single mom "essentialism" or what I have come to nickname as "self sufficiency superhuman" just to help me giggle at myself; runs deep in my blood.

This very mindset CAN be MY deepest joy sucker IF I allow it; I adore my children, anyone who knows me can see it, BUT there have been seasons in the last 7 years where I just didn't "like them all that much" and it really stemmed from me not being very satisfied with myself.  Although I embraced the theory of "attachment parenting" from the moment they descended from my birth canal and were placed skin to skin, by the time 9 -15 months rolled around, not only was I feeling suffocated and tremendous guilt from not getting enough sleep and not knowing how to adequately self care BUT my extended family & I were in denial that being overwhelmed by the simplest taskes and fatigued beyond reason could EVER happen to the super capable, cup is half full, cheerful and resilent good girl who did everything in the right "order". (READ postpartum depression)


just one child at a time


In each of my children, yes, often times I am AMAZED that I survived beyond the first one to actually go on to have more and not just 2 but now 3!  I found it was essential for my emotional, mental and physical well being that I induldge in a healthy dose of selfcare- for me it was solitude, whether it was walking 20 minutes a day by myself and carving out time either in the evening or on the weekends to actually REST by myself for a few hours by reading, crafting or visiting a friend. Because then I truly felt more in touch with myself and longed to come back and genuinely enjoy my family again.

 We all have heard Hilary Clinton's, it takes a village quote ... whether we are democrat or republican, stay at home or work or do both, many of us look down on "the village" or the associations I just referred to; if we are honest, we just don't feel like we fit into these contexts of community and at some point we didn't identify with the "clique" we were excluded from, if not at least once, then many, many times since then. Many of us are just downright awkward at socialization and we don't have high school, college or work place dynamics any more to automate the process for us. After all, making friends as a mom is so much harder when you factor in children and husband, not to mention nap and work schedules and then that dynamic of interests and personailities with tolerance or lack thereof. Oh vey! Can anyone relate?

Perservering past our "insecurities" toward maturity can be so challenging, if not now as parents, than when?  When the kids have graduated high school or college and you look at your spouse and have nothing in common because children have invaded the intimacy of your relationship? 

Playing on the floor

Seeking out connection or "stimulation" as it's labeled above is that for the weak, to not be the BEST at everything? Do we lower our mile high standards and choose humble submission that someone knows or is capable of something that we aren't, has gifts that can compliment our own? This concept that YOU, the mother, should always provide the best, most intellectually stimulating activities to aid in your child’s development, although deep seeded in my psyche too, the reality is there are about a dozen people better at playing army men on the floor than I am, my husband being the first.  This is a HUGE relief for me to admit, after 7 years of parenting and thankfully, NOT everyone is as good at making chocolate chip cookies as me, or I just might not have won my husband over with that 17 dozen home baked gift nearly 20 years ago!

In my mind; this is also where the "challenging" mindset can comes in, much like a CEO making strategic business decisions all day long, they have a huge team of people and support helping drive their success and in my opinion, that is where this home making stuff is f@?!*cking hard. Not the hardest EVER, but emotional boot camp for sure, you have to build your team WHILE a newborn, toddler, adolescent is sucking you dry? It's so vulnerable and totally a dichotomy to let anyone inside your "circle" when you are feeling totally lost and barren.

In today's business world, where I at one time earned accolades, six figures and efficiently created and managed hundreds of employees for at least 60 hours a week, before birthing my children, I noticed that every effective or the truly "great" leaders I ever met (a stark contrast to the many I met who were not so great) surrounded themselves with people "better" than themself, so that in due time, they were promotable, even replaceable, as a sign of MOST effectively equipping the culture.

Not that I need to be replaceable because I'm not planning on going anywhere soon (I reassure my husband of this often) although at times I joke and imagine the luxury of leaving on a jetplane and just not knowing when I will be back again. But I began this parenthood quest to create capable people and leave a legacy, whenever I leave this earth behind.

In my journey, God has been so gracious in these 10 years of marriage and 7 years of parenting to very slowly humble, equip me with a MORE gentle spirit AND the profound realization that the father of our children, those spoiling grandparents, the younger and "FUNNER" mom friends who make smiley faces with ketchup and put cherrios in the toilet during potty training (Kara Goldsworthy!!) and yes, even the young adults who tease, rough house and adore my kids (Gabby Leon, Stephanie VillaDavis, John Harvey, Cory Marquez, Dan Jensen) THESE PEOPLE ARE my compliment, silly, spontaneous and in so many ways downright "essential" to my orderly, responsible, at times too proper and precise homemaking. Hallelujiah!



community beyond what we could have imagined



Quite frankly the "child centered" & "fulfillment" mindset are NOT how we as humans are wired, we simply SHOULD NOT expect ONE person or even our CORE family unit of ONLY 2 or 3 people to fulfill our deepest needs, we will end up sorely disappointed, after all we all are HUMAN, falliable and it is this "enmeshed codependent" thinking that I have known for quite a long time in my own journey that propagates such staggering rates of loneliness, anxiety and depression. This is part of why best selling therapists and authors, Cloud & Townsend, have sold so many helpful books, articles and provided resources on boundaries to have healthy relationships!  Heck, I'm a loyal customer, I've found by creating firm boundaries that honor who I am and what my priorities are has enabled me to "embrace" the chaos of motherhood and actually experience "joy" not just once in a while, but in the midst of the daily quotidian before I completely miss this fleeting season that is precious and innocent in childhood!

be gentle on yourself

If it STILL feels impossible for YOU, I understand that too, depression and anxiety can be so debilitating, and I have been there, it's so hard sometimes to know where to start.

Just be gentle on yourself,     are some of the wisest words of healing and receive grace, offered for those in the misdt of the storm.    

Whether you comment publicly here on the blog or message me privately on Facebook  it would be a JOY to journey with you.  For when I'm not caring for my own family, I cameo as a postpartum doula because I take joy in equipping families with spiritual encouragment, emotional tools and physical support during seasons of change. 

I wholeheartedly believe in the deep seeded mission: it takes a village, but I simply had NO IDEA what it meant until I became an intense parent in need of Gods amazing grace. 

Moms Share Ideas About Soothing a Fussy Baby

Ideas shared from Baby Center on Soothing a Fussy Baby

"If my baby's still crying after I've changed and fed him, I usually put him in his swing and let him be because it generally means he's overstimulated."

"Giving my baby a massage chills her right out."

"Having a crying baby can take a toll on you when you aren't sleeping much. Learn to be patient and know your breaking point."

"The more upset a mother is, the more upset her baby will get."

"If your newborn is crying a lot and you have no idea what the problem could be, try gas drops."

"I love the quote, 'The baby can't fall off the floor' ..I've been to that point. I just pull out the bottom of the play yard, toss it on the floor, put my son on it, and let him cry it out. He's usually out within five minutes."

"Remind yourself that you can't keep a baby happy all day long. When you don't know what to do, don't think any less of yourself for it. Nobody's perfect and not all babies are the same."

Click on the link above to see more...

The Postpartum Period: 6 weeks after birth (fourth trimester) for mom & baby

Excerpts from
Mothering the Mother: The Importance of Postpartum Careby Rev. Pilar (Ma’at) Grant Nov 02, 2011

What is the Postpartum Period?
As a midwife, I have worked with pregnant mothers and their families for over twenty years. I myself am a mother of seven amazing and beautiful human beings. During this time, I have witnessed as well as experienced how women are almost forgotten after the birth of their babies. 

Postpartum, also called the fourth trimester, puerperium and postnatal is recognized as the period just after birth and the subsequent six weeks that follow. Postpartum is as important as any other phase of the birthing process. During pregnancy, labor and birth of the baby, a mother’s overall health is depleted. The mother is constantly giving of her life force energy, therefore it is most important she is replenished and cared for after birth. Many elders have told me women who don’t take care of themselves in their childbearing years, especially after the birth of a baby, are sure to feel discomforts during menopause.
Postpartum is a significant time for the mother, baby and family. Many physiological, psychological and spiritual changes occur. During this time, the uterus contracts, breasts may enlarge and become tender in preparation for breastfeeding and hormones fluctuate. Internal organs that have moved to accommodate the baby are slowly shifting back to their original positions. As mothers, we need to desire and expect quality holistic postpartum care. As health practitioners, it is imperative that we are more attentive to the postpartum mothers we are serving. Caring for the mother in a loving way will help restore strength, vitality, muscle tone, mental clarity and an overall sense of well being. 

Major Areas of Concern for Mother Postpartum

There are five major physiological changes that postpartum mothers experience. 

Healing of the uterus and uterine wall
After the birth of the placenta, the top of the uterus is at the level of the navel. The uterus will remain this size for about two days and then it continually gets smaller. In about five to six weeks, it has regained its pre-pregnant size. The regeneration happens very quickly except at the placental site. Complete healing of the placental site takes up to six weeks or more.  Wise women have told me that it can take up to three months for the placental site of the uterus to heal. They suggest that mothers refrain from sexual intercourse and inserting anything into the vagina for three months. 

Vaginal restoration and healing of the pelvic floor muscles including the perineum
There are many changes in the vagina after birth. Vaginal discharge is experienced, whether it is a vaginal birth or caesarean. This is called lochia. It is much like a menstrual period and can be experienced for two to six weeks after birth. Lochia comes from blood and tissues that have built up in the uterus during pregnancy. In vaginal births where tearing has occurred, the mother usually experiences swelling and pain. The tearing may be repaired by the use of stitches depending on the severity. If this is the case they will dissolve over the course of a week. For a mother who has not experienced tearing, the vaginal lips can still appear slightly swollen. Although the vagina stretches significantly to accommodate the birth of the baby, immediately after birth, the vagina shrinks tremendously forming a smooth walled passage. The perineum, the area between the vagina and anus, may also be sore due to a tear during labor or an episiotomy.

Restoring strength and tone to the abdominal wall muscles
The abdominal wall will remain soft and flabby for a while after birth due to the rupture of the elastic fibers and the prolonged distention of the uterus. It usually takes several weeks for the abdomen to return to its pre-pregnancy appearance. For mothers of 3 or more children, the abdominal wall may have separated and will remain lax. 

Establishing a good milk supply and successful breastfeeding
The same hormones that initiate contractions in labor help to initiate breast milk.  Within 24 hours after birth, the breast produces colostrum, a golden yellow liquid that is full of antibodies that serve as the newborns first immunization to disease. Breast milk has the proper amount of sugar, fat, water and protein for the baby’s growth. Not only is breastfeeding good for the child, it is also great for the mother as well. Suckling on the breast creates a rush of oxytocin in the mother’s body. This hormone helps the body secrete milk. Suckling also helps in contracting the uterus and protects the mother from hemorrhaging. 

Endocrine system and hormonal shifts
After giving birth, estrogen and progesterone, which are released by the endocrine system, significantly lower. During pregnancy, the body produces these hormones in abundance. It takes around three days for hormonal levels to return to their pre-pregnancy state. The body experiences a shock with the sudden change in hormones, impacting the mother’s mood, body functions, digestion, and ability to sleep. 
Due to major shifts in hormones after birth, mothers may experience mood swings. In the first week, postpartum women usually start out happy and joyful because of the high of the birth. However, in a few days the joys of birth can turn into depression and or a sense of melancholy. This is due to the physical and mental stress of birth, a breakdown of tissue components and a withdrawal of estrogen and progesterone leading to an imbalance of electrolytes and hormones.  

Without proper care, many women develop postpartum mood disorder. Postpartum mood disorder is a mental health disorder striking within the first year of giving birth. It can occur in any woman after birth whether she is a first time mom or not .The postpartum mood disorders can range from Baby Blues to Psychosis. 

Baby Blues is a condition that affects 80 percent of new mothers, with the onset between 3-14 days postpartum. Twenty percent of women with baby blues will go on to develop Postpartum Depression. Postpartum Depression affects up to 25 percent of new mothers. Symptoms can be exhibited right away or several months after delivery. Prior incidents of postpartum depression sometimes may put a woman at a 50 to 80 percent higher risk of recurrence. Postpartum Psychosis is the most severe postpartum mood disorder. PPP is rare, believed to affect only one to two new mothers in one thousand. Treatments of these illnesses may require medication, psychotherapy and, in extreme cases such as Postpartum Psychosis, hospitalization. 

Calcium Magnesium help after birth pains and Insomnia

Excerpts from Mothering the Mother: The Importance of Postpartum Careby Rev. Pilar (Ma’at) Grant, Nov 02, 2011
After birth pains
I did some extensive research and discovered the benefits of calcium and magnesium.  
I took 1000mg of calcium and 500mcg of magnesium as soon as the baby was born and I didn't feel the afterbirth pains. I was aware of the afterbirth uterine contractions yet experienced no pain. I took one to two tablets a day for 1 week. 

Insomnia
Calcium magnesium taken one hour before bed helps you to sleep soundly. A nice cup of raspberry and chamomile tea will help the mother to rest well.

Adjusting to Mothering Two

These excerpts are from Baby Number Two By Christina Schmidt via mothering.com

When we had our second baby, I secretly feared we'd made a terrible mistake. My older son had just entered the notorious Twos. The new baby demanded constant attention and required maddeningly little sleep. I'd wanted my children close in age so they would be friends, but I often doubted we would survive to see that day.

As the months passed, I anxiously awaited any sign of sibling bonding, but for the most part my older son regarded his baby brother with nothing more than curiosity, boredom, some jealousy, and occasional disdain. I'd envisioned the second baby bringing us into balance as a family, and imagined all the wonderful things my two sons would experience together. What I got was extreme sleep deprivation, resentment, and excessive guilt, as I struggled to meet everyones needs and to remember why this had once seemed like such a good idea.

But I've learned to appreciate life as a mother of two and the chaos that naturally follows. You have to be more observant -- the joyful moments are usually brief, unexpected, and tucked obscurely within everyday life, but invariably they are off-the-charts adorable. One minute I'll be thinking that my children are aliens bent on the destruction of mankind and all I want is to beam them back to their mother ship. Then suddenly they'll trot down the hall with their arms around each other, singing and laughing together, and I marvel at the magic of their interactions.

Dr. Harvey Karp's 5's to sooth a crying infant with the calming reflex

According to Dr. Harvey Karp, to sooth a crying infant, recreating the womb environment helps the baby feel more secure and calm. Dr. Karp recommends:

• Swaddling: Tight swaddling provides the continuous touching and support your baby is used to experiencing within the womb.
• Side/stomach position: The infant is placed on their left side to assist in digestion, or on their stomach to provide reassuring support. “But never use the stomach position for putting your baby to sleep,” cautions Karp. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is linked to stomach-down sleep positions. When a new baby is in a stomach down position do not leave them even for a moment. 
• Shushing sounds: These imitate the continual whooshing sound made by the blood flowing through arteries near the womb.
• Swinging: Newborns are used to the swinging motions within their mother’s womb, so entering the gravity driven world of the outside is like a sailor adapting to land after nine months at sea. “It’s disorienting and unnatural,” says Karp. Rocking, car rides, and other swinging movements all can help.
• Sucking: “Sucking has its effects deep within the nervous system,” notes Karp, “and triggers the calming reflex and releases natural chemicals within the brain.”

Karp’s system initiates and maximizes a babies natural calming reflex through swaddling, placing the baby on its side or stomach, using “shushing” sounds, swinging and sucking.

Colic occurs in approximately 1 out of 10 babies. It usually begins a few weeks after birth and is defined as crying on and off for more than three hours a day, three or more days a week. The crying is characterized as screaming, complete with a purple face and flailing arms. The fits typically happen in the late afternoon or evening. Colic generally peaks at about six weeks and improves around three to five months.

These tips offered by Dr. Harvey Karp is a nationally renowned pediatrician, child development specialist for over 30 years, award winning author of Happiest Baby and Toddler on the Block as well as Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the USC School of Medicine. 

Happy Mother's Day... to EVERY mother I've ever known...

Schedule a time to capture the sweet, intimate, unscripted moments that seem to go by SO fast just by including StephVillaDavis-Photography in whatever YOU choose to do.... and yes you can afford it... it's like a month worth of Starbucks... simply give her a call... she has Mother's Day specials or time customized for you thereafter.

How does Mom share joy in YOUR family?  Why not give her the BEST you have to GIVE...
a little bit of quality time to just BE together.   Don't like getting your picture taken?  Not sure it's for you?   Learn more about my own mothering journey and first hand experience in the midst of lifestyle photo sessions... here on my personal blog: http://www.sabaroos.blogspot.com/




Happy Mother's Day... to EVERY mother I've ever known...

I admire YOU for WHO you are and ALL you do.   

Healing Hearts on Mother's Day

This Mother's Day... what might it look like if we are ALL mindful of the brokenhearted mamas? 

In the midst of so much celebration, there are also those that experience tremendous grief, heartache and despair.  I encourage you to make a CHOICE to be BOLD in LOVE and reconcile GRIEF, ANGER, DENIAL, DEPRESSION & SHAME.   

 

 

This VERY impactful post gripped me... it shows this picture, the precious feet of the baby she has lost...Infant Loss at 41 weeks , sure she has 2 boys, but it really doesn't matter, she lost her baby girl, she LOST a CHILD, her hope and dreams, part of her soul, there is no replacement EVER.  I'm SO encouraged by Birth Without Fear Blog this awesome site which empowers women to choose to be educated not afraid of birth and share their story, no matter what they choose or what their birth entails- it's their own! 

 

About 1 in 3 women (see statistics here) from the American Pregnacy Association will experience loss during pregnancy.  Whether miscarriage or stillbirth; the odds are high that someone in your circle of influence will feel this pain.  Stop and think.  How many do you know? 

 

Can you imagine if Mother's Day EMPOWERS healing in the hearts of ALL moms? 

Can you imagine... IF we give EVERY mom we KNOW who has EVER experienced child grief- from infertility, to birth loss OR even special needs children (for there is sadness of broken motherhood dreams)... a hug AND a note or card-- even via email to say- I CARE!). 

 

 

It has the potential to create a POWERFUL circle of healing and give honor to cherished emotional memories whether fresh or buried. 

 

I felt compelled to do this POST not because of my story but because of these BRAVE parents of a dear friend of mine who reflect and share with such authenticity in the midst of tragedy JOYFUL IN HOPE; this is her FIRST Mother's Day without her Anna Joy, miracle baby and I am aching for her and I am in awe of her FAITH & COURAGE to seek Peace that Surpasses Understanding 

 

I always wanted to be a mom and although I knew a select few who struggled with pregnancy or baby loss; I never thought it'd affect me SO deeply.  At the beginning of my journey into motherhood 9 years ago, May of 2003, just AFTER the celebration of my "first" Mother's Day, a miscarriage at 11 weeks rocked my WORLD and has affected everything about who I am today.  God has blessed me with 3 healthy babies... but my journey has been marked with tremendous struggle with grief, anxiety, denial & depression.

I overflow with gratitude for all the healing that has happened so I can talk about this piece of my story; while I do not feel worthy of these precious gifts while my sisters in community are mourning, I claim it's not a comparison; it's a collaboration of compassion.   

 

Why NOT help bring brokenness into the "light" and acknowledge that they are NOT alone; God is IN the mess and it's a process; even though you hurt to YOUR CORE. 

Please re-post or share this IF you believe this is important this Mother's Day and YOU want to do this in your "circle" to SHOW you have a heart for mamas & their births! 

 

 

Remember the picture is of this mother’s sweet baby’s feet.  Just a reminder that no matter how small you are, your impact can be immeasurable.

 

 

 

 

Should I try Pilates?

I used to run, kickbox, play basketball, do yoga and had visions that I could jump start my finess regimine with boot camp.  Some friends swore by it... it's peer pressure, you do it early in the morning and you learn what you are made of.  COOL I thought... did I mention I'm a bit of an optimist?  The day before surgery to "remove" my foot hardware I thought I'd go to boot camp... you know just kick start my butt into gear...hehe. 

Then I thought about it for a few minutes... why risk injury... running, jumping, a lot of pushing my body in ways that probably wouldn't help energize me but rather remind me of how far I have yet to go? 

Yes, we all can deny reality... the truth is I'm still recovering from shattering my right foot, undergoing surgery with a plate, pins & screws, 4 months off my foot, doing some PT and then becoming pregnant.  Really haven't done much physical activity in the last 2 years besides "birth"- YES that counts (18 hours for the 3rd kid- heck yeah!) and lifting my kids.  Then I got my hardware out about 6 weeks ago and the REAL rehabilition began a few weeks after.  I found Tyler Physical Therapy in Montrose, CA.  It's where I go for physical therapy...and see the limitations of my foot... but I'm excited to do my part too to regain function; I have MANY years ahead and I've always been an active person... pilates seems like a good, calculated step for the "inner strength" I have been yearning for while rehabilitating my foot. 

Should I try pilates?

No matter your age or physical abilities, Pilates can help improve strength and flexibility.  Pilates exercises focus on developing a strong “core” while conditioning the whole body and improving body awareness, posture, and coordination.

While many who suffer from injuries or weaknesses find “traditional” exercise methods difficult, most Pilates exercises are low or no-impact, and are performed in seated or reclined positions. 

Pilates is so safe, it is often used in conjunction with physical therapy to rehabilitate injuries.  At the same time, Pilates techniques can easily be modified to challenge even the most well-conditioned athletes.

Among the many benefits of Pilates are that it increases your strength without “bulking” you up.  Pilates doesn’t typically increase your heart rate to an aerobic level, but you may find that strength training with Pilates does help whittle your waistline.

Make sure to talk with your instructor about changes in your body or injuries you may have.  Our Pilates instructors are trained to offer modifications if you find techniques uncomfortable.  Listen to your body!

They have a wide range of classes as early as 6am and weekends... there are only 4 to a class; to ensure special attention and improved technique. 

Try a FREE class on Sundays... see more Classes & Sessions here... they range from $15 to $10 an hour depending on quantity. 
A group Pilates mat class designed to challenge participants of every ability level. Pilates mat work builds strength, improves flexibility and enhances coordination. FREE Trial Class open to new clients only. Must reserve in advance by calling TPT at 818-369-7700. Openings are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Save the Earth one lunch at a time!

I LOVE these because a mom was looking for a solution and she made them.  Yup, that's what motherhood IS about... making the world better!!!  She cares about the next generation and our Earth! 

At Earth Swag, we don't want green products and green living to cost more. We are sending this coupon directly to you so that you can skip the retail store mark-up. Use code "earthday". 

In honor of Earth Day this week... get 50% OFF products + FREE Shipping.  So the wrap above is just $6 or see the sets with a sandwich wrap and 2 snack bags for $14. 

Plus, they do fundraisers IF you are looking for a good quality product that people can USE!  
See more here Earth Swag.  And make YOUR small contribution and help teach kids about less plastic in landfills. 

It's simple, but when you do it daily it makes a difference! 



 

Fitness Fling: 90 day challenge

It's Spring... I just can't help but feel inspired!  My skin tingles with anticipation, I feel like my wings are bursting forth out of a winter cocoon.  How about you? 



youthful exuberence... spread YOUR wings!

 In the midst of seasonal change, there are these moments of illumination when I yearn to be the mom I always envisioned and quite honestly I could launch head first or feet forward in about a gazillion directions and then get flustered, exhausted, overwhelmed or totally off course... BUT after a season of REST this last Winter and a bit of heartfelt reflection during the Lenten season... there is one goal that truly merges my personal spiritual, physical, emotional and mental goals AND aligns with getting my life priorities in order (God, Marriage, Children, Home, Self & Others): FITNESS!  Not exercise... cause that makes me feel inadequate, but fitness...

fit·ness/ˈfitnis/

Noun:	The condition of being physically fit and healthy. The quality of being suitable to fulfill a particular role or task.
Synonyms:	suitability - aptitude - convenience - pertinence

simple yet profound fresh air from a family hike

The truth is since having kids not only has my body changed, but so have my habits along the way; many of which are NOT suitable for my kids and not healthy for my home.  Here is a picture I cherish... the "active" life in a "moment" I envisioned for my family.  We took a local walk and everyone enjoyed the fresh air... but it doesn't happen often enough.  There are many reasons I don't keep fitness a priority... and I will share more as we go along, but I hope you will too...so we can be better equipped and encouraged in our life choices.  What is your "snapshot" of the life you envision? 

In recent months I have been asking other mamas what they do that works for them; especially those that have a knack for staying fit and seem more consistent at good choices and remain joyful about it!!

Although we are all different in what works for us, especially depending on the ages of our kids; but the common desire is usually the same... I should do something!  And then time passes, seasons change, we adjust our lives based on the urgent, we fight fatigue, we dream about "someday", we adapt our wardrobes to hide 10 pounds, we are out of breath before we know it and who knows what extra strain we are placing on our body and it's mode of operation!  But like good ol Nike says...

                                                  
... we should do something... no matter how small.   In recent months I've pondered the simple to the outrageous in terms of fitness.  It's really no wonder we as a society struggle more than any other nation because we make it complicated and there are TOO many choices.  Let our kids remind us how simple it can be when they go outside to PLAY!

So... here's what we are going to do: keep it simple... more activity... some every day: 20 minutes at least, sure I hope I will have more energy, I hope I will eat better, my clothes may fit better, I want to sleep better, enjoy activities and life more... but rather than getting distracted with where to start... I'm going to FOCUS... and call it 90 days of Fitness Fling... April 15...May 15... June 15... July 15.  

Join the event page here via Facebook: Fitness Fling: 90 day challenge
So whether you swear by kid chasing at the park,  Stroller Strides, Biking, Boot Camp, Barre Classes, Hiking, Kickboxing, Spinning, Zumba, Swimming, Walking OR Yoga ... let's explore what it's taken to kick start YOUR motivation, to energize YOUR post baby body and help "nurturemama" on a consistent basis?  Share with us what works for YOU?

And if we want to be HONEST... think about what REALLY holds you back?  What's your excuse?  Energy?  Time?  Money?  Age?  Injury? Accountability?  We all have them. 

Now I'm not just talking diet or weight loss... often the "quick fix" our society tries to sell us to do it fast. 
Are you like me at all?  Have you bought gear for your kids and then watched them use it?  Have you invested in new shoes, videos, memberships somewhere or grabbed great deals from Groupon, but not a whole lot has changed?  Are you trying to motivate your husband or friends to do it; but they aren't following through?

I'm gonna do whatever I can to CHOOSE a more active lifestyle and strong inner core... my baby turns 10 months this month she'll be walking any day (it just makes me feel tired thinking about it!) and my boys, ages 6 and 3 are as energetic as ever.  My hubby LOVES the great outdoors and we miss being immersed in nature.  Although it's been a tough few years and I'm recovering from foot injury (and I've used that as my reason for awhile), I'm in physical therapy and there are a lot of things I shouldn't do- like Boot Camp, Running, even Yoga cause my balance is off... but there are things I can do and should do to help expedite my recovery and align me on the right path.  90 days seems long enough to inspire SOME progress and new awareness of building back up my "inner strength". 

I'm going to ponder a reward too... maybe it'll be one of those cool outfits in the Athleta catalog... or a Spa retreat to Ojai... I KNOW feeling energetic and healthy is reward in itself for me and my family... but why not celebrate meeting the challenge right?  Overcoming challenges... day by day.

Let me know IF and WHEN you choose to join along... whether you are stagnant or just needing to mix up your fitness routine...I hope you are encouraged... for it always takes profoundly simple steps toward big transformation... no matter where you are in life and the daily demands that "entrap" you, you can choose. 

April 15, 2012



EVENT: Vintage Clothing & Textile Show: Sunday, April 29, 9am-3pm

The Vintage Clothing & Textile Show comes to Burbank's Pickwick Gardens on Sunday, April 29, 2012.  Even if you aren't able to "BUY"... this looks like a fun outing to explore, take pictures and get inspiration for your living space or your wardrobe!  And it's a simple way to "nurture mama"; kiddos in carriers welcome... who knows how hard it may be to push strollers.


Conscientious and savvy dealers save their best material for this show, which has been running since the early 1980s. In addition to beautiful designer clothing from a variety of eras, shoppers can find bed linens, Victorian lace, draperies and cushions, decorative trims, buttons, shoes, and handbags. Liven up your jewelry collection with beads, pendants, medallions, precious stones and more.


Tickets are available for $2.50 to $6.00 TODAY only... see Goldstar: Vintage Clothing & Textile Show and buy your ticket IF you want to join in this fun, exploratory outing... let's grab a coffee in Montrose at 8:30am (location TBD... just confirm your interest in joining!)


We can carpool or caravan over to Burbank to check out the show from 9am to 11am, to beat the crowds.  Anyone have any "favorite" Burbank thrift shops open on Sunday?  Maybe we'll hit up a few thrift stores or garage sales on our rounds back home by 2pm.  Cameras, creative souls & friends welcome on this treasure hunt.

nurturedmama 

life as mom, is ALL about the journey NOT the destination

Do Not Conform…REST in Him

Sally Clarkson, is a mom with heart. The more I read her blog, her books and learn about her choices, even though we are very different, I admire how she was intentional. She was convicted about her priorities: God, Marriage, Children, Home, Ministry… she stayed focused on how God shaped her heart and her priorities; in spite of others opinions.

It wasn’t without difficulty or criticism but she developed much COURAGE. It was bolder than the disCOURAGEment in this world. This combination of diligent REST and LISTENING for His WILL for her life is what has lead to JOY. It requires retreat, being still… yes even a few moments a day with preschoolers… listening for HIS still small voice in our loud world. It is God who KNOWS me BEST and LOVES us MOST; often times better than I know myself, thank you Jesus!!

1 Kings 19:11-13 always reminds me of how God speaks, although I didn’t picture God speaking to me this way… until becoming a mom and doing some soulful excavation did I realize this. To be honest, I had always envisioned more of a lecture, like an upset parent in my mind; it kept me from coming to God, the Father.
It’s quite countercultural…to draw near, experience a gentle, whisper, but when the Lord spoke to Elijah it exemplifies, God as our perfect, patient, parent:
The LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
God was not in the wind, not in the earthquake, not the fire…but HE was a gentle whisper. And I really don’t think it’s any different today, then back then. If anything it’s LOUDER and we have a HARDER time being STILL…so if you choose anything for 2012 it’s to REST in Him.
And Romans 12: 1-2 Is about the “renewing of our mind”…therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

As Sally explains: The only place we can find peace and joy is in God’s will, so if we try to find it, to conform, we will not find His blessing or rest, peace and joy.

Ugly Duckling...

Read Sally Clarkson's full blog post at I Take Joy here: Do Not Conform

Hope for the Weary Mom

Excerpt:  Right now, I have nothing to give. Nothing. Nada. I’m tired and don’t feel good and honestly, I want a break from everything. It’s not that I want to leave my family, trade them in, or get new ones. I WANT to be with them. I just want a break from hard hearts, discipline, correction. I want their hearts changed and I can’t do it myself. Sometimes, the knowledge of this makes me feel hopeless and helpless.”
~A Weary Mom

Where God Meets You in Your Mess

“Just finished reading Hope for the Weary Mom & I’m feeling normal for the first time in a long time.”

YOU are NOT alone…

“I believe God’s plans for me are good. Therefore, I commit today that I will never give up on my family, and I will never give up on God’s ability to move in their hearts. With His help, I will take the next step of faith even when I feel I can’t, because He is the God of miracles. If you’re ready to make this commitment too, copy and paste this on your wall.

For encouragement for the journey… check out this ebook at: Hope for the Weary Mom