Is There a Fungus Among Us? June 21, 2008

My sister-in-law and her new husband are building a new addition to their Kansas City home. Along the dusty path to home renovation, they have encountered a possible mold issue. I wrote this piece a few years ago for San Diego Family magazine; This one’s for you, sista!

When Linda Coffman developed hay fever-like symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis), she treated her symptoms like any allergy. During a renovation of the Coffman family’s out-dated bathroom, the contractor discovered hidden water damage on the back side of the bathroom’s wallpaper, dry wall and paneling, and advised the family to seek medical attention for any cases of irritated eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs which are commonly a result of exposure to mold.

Household mold, a type of fungi similar to mushrooms and yeasts, is no laughing matter. After floods or major leaks, mold spores may land on a damp spot indoors and begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are at least 1,000 species of mold in the United States which grow on wood, paper, carpet, tile grout, and foods. Molds have the potential to cause health problems by producing allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances.

“There’s one reason why someone should be concerned about mold,” Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) engineer Bob Thompson says, “and you can sum it up in one word: damage.”

Thompson sees firsthand what mold can do to both your home and your health; “Mold can grow on most of the materials that are used in building a home the top side of ceiling tiles, the underside of carpets and pads, or areas inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes), the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation). It can use it as a food source,” he reports. “Mold will actually cause a physical change and sometimes chemical changes in these materials, rendering them worthless.”

The EPA advises that investigating hidden mold problems may be difficult and will require caution when the investigation involves disturbing potential sites of mold growth. The removal of wallpaper can lead to a massive release of spores if there is mold growing on the underside. If you believe you may have a hidden mold problem, an experienced professional can help.

Where Are Most of the Common Moisture Spots in a Home? Blame it on Moisture!
Molds can be found on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. This list is courtesy www.HGTV.com:

• Bathrooms—This room is a major source for moisture in any home, which is why ventilation is vital. Without a vent and fan, the moisture can’t be pulled up and out of the room.
• Windows—Most windows sweat, so it’s important to wipe the moisture from the windows with a mixture of detergent and water.
• Attics—Dark patches of mold can spread under the insulation in an attic when humidity is high outside the home.
• Kitchens—Steam from cooking can produce excessive moisture.
• Soffit Vents—These vents attract moisture from outside the home.
• Small Holes in Walls—Outside moisture can reach the inside of your home through small holes in the walls.
• Light Fixtures—If your ceiling light fixtures aren’t sealed well, moisture and humidity can penetrate your home.
• Vinyl Wallpaper—This type of wallpaper will not let moisture come through the wall as it should normally. It traps the moisture in the coldest part of the wall, which is the surface. This is where the moist air condenses, fueling the growth of mold.
• Leaking Air-Conditioner Systems—A typical air-conditioning system is only designed to do 30 percent of the work in moisture removal. Air conditioners can harbor dirt and moisture, which can lead to mold problems. Tip: Be sure to have your air-conditioning system serviced twice a year—in fall and spring.
• Roofs—If the structure of your roofing system doesn’t eliminate moisture and rain properly, you cannot only see major damage to your roof, but the excessive moisture can lead to mold problems.
• Crawl Spaces—If you have missing downspouts nearby, a crawl space can develop a major moisture and mold problem. Faulty duct work can be the culprit here. This can become a breeding ground for problems right under your house.
• Basements—Usually the most damp room in the house.

How do I get rid of mold?
The EPA recommends that homeowners don’t attempt to clean a mold problem larger than a three-foot by three-foot patch (just less than 10 square feet). Anything larger requires professional assistance.

The key to mold control is moisture control. Mold can grow on wet or damp surfaces within 24-48 hours—dry water-damaged areas immediately to prevent mold growth. If mold is a problem in your home, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture. Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water. Absorbent materials (such as ceiling tiles and carpet) that become moldy may have to be replaced. Wash mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Clean and dry all damp or wet building materials and furnishings within two days to prevent mold growth.

The use of a chemical or biocide (such as chlorine bleach) to kill mold organisms is not recommended because bleach can be dangerous when mixed with some other chemicals, and potentially harmful to the environment. The EPA now recommends a mixture of mild detergent and water. The EPA also notes that dead mold may still cause allergic reactions in some people. If you or a family members suffers from an allergy, it is not enough to simply kill the mold, it must be removed.

Tools–And Important Safety Information!

• Rubber gloves that extend to the middle of the forearm (select gloves made from natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, polyurethane or PVC)—It’s important to have sturdy gloves that have no rips because even the smallest amount of exposure to mold can cause skin irritations or rashes. And be sure to throw the gloves away once you’re through. Don’t reuse!
• Goggles without air holes—The EPA suggests wearing sealed goggles without holes to guard against mold spores coming in contact with your eyes.
• Filter mask (rated N-95 or higher)—To keep from inhaling the spores, it’s vital that you wear a filter mask. The rating of N-95 stands for the percentage of particles that will be captured and stopped from coming through the mask. For example, with the N-95 filter mask, it will capture 95 percent of the particles released when removing the mold. Make sure the mask is comfortable but tight enough to eliminate any air leakage.
• Scraper or sponge—To clean mold from a hard surface such as metal, the EPA recommends a scraper or sponge and a mixture of water and detergent.
• Small drywall saw for removing material that can’t be cleaned—For a porous surface such as drywall or wood, there’s no easy cleanup method. Cut away and replace the material.

If you suspect a larger mold problem lurking behind your cleanup, call a professional. Avoid household mold by reducing indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth. Use air conditioners and de-humidifiers, increase ventilation in the bathroom, and use exhaust fans when cooking, dishwashing, or cleaning. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting. Simply put, anything you can do to help prevent moisture in and around you home, the better chance you’ll have to eliminate mold problem.

Who should do the cleanup?
According to the EPA, if there has been a lot of water damage, and/or mold growth covers more than 10 square feet:

1. Consult the Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings guide. Although focused on schools and commercial buildings, this document is applicable to other building types.
2. If you choose to hire a contractor (or other professional service provider) to do the cleanup, make sure the contractor has experience cleaning up mold. Check references and ask the contractor to follow the recommendations in EPA’s Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, the guidelines of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygenists (ACGIH), or other guidelines from professional or government organizations.
3. If you suspect that the heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system may be contaminated with mold (it is part of an identified moisture problem, for instance, or there is mold near the intake to the system), consult EPA’s guide Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? before taking further action. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold.
4. If the water and/or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, then call in a professional who has experience cleaning and fixing buildings damaged by contaminated water.
5. If you have health concerns, consult a health professional before starting cleanup.

Additional Resources:
Get Mold Tips from the National Association of Home Builders

For more information on mold related issues including mold cleanup and moisture control/condensation/humidity issues, write to:
U.S. EPA, Office of Air and Radiation
Indoor Environments Division (6609J)
1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC  20460

Ask for EPA Publication #402-K-02-003. This Guide provides information and guidance for homeowners and renters on how to clean up residential mold problems and how to prevent mold growth. 

The Unassuming Foodie May 14, 2008

Foodie (fū‘dē): A person who has an ardent or refined interest in food; a gourmet: “in the culinary fast lane, where surprises are expected and foodies beg to be thrilled” (Boston Globe).

At the risk of getting ahead of myself, I’m very excited to share my new blog with you. It is called The Unassuming Foodie.  You may have noticed that I love to talk about food–eating it, sharing it, and ensuring my family enjoys nutritious, creative and wholesome meals every day. I’ve certainly noticed that my recipes are the pages my readers flock to first. So, it’s a win-win. I call it “unassuming” because the blog is devoid of snobbery or pretension, maintaining only a passion for real, good food.

Yes, there are plenty of recipe-centric blogs out there, and God bless them, every one. The Unassuming Foodie is a place to satisfy those of us who are truly interested in food–not just the tasting and consuming, but delighting in how different kinds of food and spices can heal, provide specific nutrients, and how they grow or earned a peculiar name. Each recipe finishes with an intriguing Food Fact, or check out Food Fact Round-up, an alphabetized collection of every Food Fact written.

I’m hand-selecting gorgeous recipes that are quirky and unexpected, yet elegant and tasteful and suitable for a variety of diets. The blog is configured with links to recipes for Soups, Salads, Main Courses and Desserts, of course, but those recipes are also cross-referenced by special diet, including Raw, Vegan, Low-Glycemic, Gluten-Free and Kid-Friendly. For readers in limited markets, I’m compiling an Amazon store of hard-to-find nutritious food items, for your convenience.

You will also find a handy How-to Guide with links to great resources online for tricky kitchen maneuvers, such as butterflying a chicken.

If you have a special recipe, I would love to prepare it in my kitchen and write about it for the blog, along with your supplied photo of your family, or of the dish (for those who are shy). It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just a tried-and-true dish that your family loves to eat. Your contributions are most appreciated, and so are your suggestions! Please have a look and share your thoughts. Bon appetit!

The Smart Lunch-box: Easy, Nutritious Snacks For Kids on the Go April 4, 2008

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The lunch-box is one opportunity for parents to ensure kids receive the protein, vitamins, minerals, and calories growing bodies need for a busy day at school, and a myriad of extra-curricular activities. School-age kids can whip up these delicious snacks with minimal assistance at the beginning of the week, to be conveniently packed into lunch-boxes or backpacks each morning. Ingredients are provided for a 5-day school week, allowing variety while monitoring portion sizes.

All-Your-Favorites Trail Mix: No two trail mixes need be alike! Every kid (or adult!) can create a signature mixture. Bulk bins at the grocery store offer endless combinations of nuts, dried fruits, seeds, and low-fat granola. Steer clear of sugared candies, and choose only raw or roasted unsalted nuts and seeds. Experiment, enabling your children to explore different tastes. Combine ½-cup of mixture in colored cellophane or zip-lock bags per serving.

Yogurt Parfaits: Sprinkle low-fat granola in the bottoms of five 1-cup containers. (Tip: save old single-serving yogurt containers!) Add a spoonful of lemon or vanilla low-fat yogurt. Add ¼-cup fruit of your choice in each and top with more yogurt. Sprinkle low-fat granola on top.
Or, try this savory, Mexican-inspired alternative!
Cottage Cheese Parfaits: Replace yogurt with low-fat cottage cheese, and substitute cooked beans and salsa.

Food Fact! The calcium in these foods has been found to lower the liver’s output of LDL (bad) cholesterol, and builds the bones of rapidly growing kids. Calcium has also been linked to the prevention of colds, allergies and cancer, and helps prevent dangerous intestinal infections. Low-fat dairy products are an excellent source of protein.

Fruit ‘n Cheese Kebabs: Alternate fruit and part-skim mozzarella cheese on kebab skewers or toothpicks. Choose dried or fresh fruit, such as apricots, figs, bananas, pears, plums, peaches, melon wedges, oranges, or pineapple. Be careful of sharp points or splinters.

Raw Veggies & Dip: Slice broccoli and cauliflower florets, zucchini and cucumber slices, green pepper rings, carrot and celery sticks. If a child is allowed to help choose the veggies and takes part in the washing, cutting and packaging, she or he will be more likely to enjoy them. Create a simple and delicious dipping sauce by blending plain non-fat yogurt with cottage cheese. Add your favorite herbs, if desired.

Yummy Bugs: Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on 10 round or oval whole wheat crackers. Place 6 thin carrot sticks in the peanut butter on each, for the bug’s legs. Put 2 raisins at one end of each to make eyes, and gently squeeze the remaining crackers on top.

Food Fact! In the legume or bean family, peanut butter is a terrific protein source, containing mostly beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, fiber, and vitamin E, shown to act as an antioxidant. A winner with most kids, P.B. is also a source of essential minerals such as magnesium, copper, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.

Bahama-rama: Mix 1-cup of low-fat cream cheese with 2½ tablespoons chopped walnuts, and 2½ tablespoons crushed pineapple in its own juice. Spread on 5 whole wheat English muffins. Try this spread on celery sticks with raisins, or on whole wheat crackers.

Food Fact! Whole-grain breads provide your kids with energy, vitamins, and iron, and most are low in fat. A good source of dietary fiber, whole-grain breads will keep your child satisfied longer. To be sure what you buy is whole-grain, read the label carefully; Whole grain should be the first ingredient listed. Not all dark breads are whole grain.

Remember, crackers, biscuits, and other grain products can be high in sodium or fat. Check nutrition labels to find those that are lower in fat and sodium.

Bran Apple Bars: Apples and bran cereal add dietary fiber. Using egg whites in place of a whole egg keeps cholesterol to a trace.
1. Preheat oven to 350F (moderate). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. Soak 1-cup of whole-bran cereal (i.e.: All Bran®) in ½-cup of skim or non-fat milk until milk is absorbed.
3. Mix 1-cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg thoroughly.
4. Beat 1/3-cup butter or margarine and 1/3-cup brown sugar until creamy. Add 2 egg whites and beat well. Stir in 1-cup chopped apples, and the bran mixture. Add dry ingredients, mix well.
5. Pour into pan. Bake 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Note: Some whole-bran cereals contain almost twice as much sodium as others, check the nutrition label. Makes 16 bars: two weeks’ supply, or enough to share with friends!

Snacks often provide a substantial amount of a child’s food intake—your child’s snack choices are important. However, all snacks are not equal! Nutritious snacks like these will help children get all the vitamins and minerals they need each day.

**For a fun, easy and nutritious snack, try making Raw Brownies with Icing!

Looking for more great recipes like these? Check out my other blog, the Unassuming Foodie!

Choline Reduces Birth Defects, Improves Brain Development March 31, 2008

Studies show that, in pregnancy, choline plays a critical role in brain development, and may reduce the risk of neural-tube defects such as spina bifida by as much as fifty percent.

Dr. Gary Shaw, a research director of the California Birth Defects Monitoring Program reported in a paper in the American Journal of Epidemiology (2004), that women whose daily choline intake was greater than 498mg had about half the risk of delivering a baby with a neural-tube defect, compared with expectant mothers whose choline intake was 290mg or less. Surprisingly, this reduction occurred independently of intake of folic acid. “Many of us have been targeting folic acid as the way to prevent birth defects, and this has certainly worked, ” Dr. Shaw says. ” But issues remain as to why it doesn’t work in everyone.”

In pregnancy, choline plays a critical role in brain development by helping regulate the transport of nutrients into and out of cells. It also forms acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory function, according to Dr. Steven Zeisel, a recognized expert in choline, who published his findings in the Journal of Neurochemistry (2004). Choline, a vitamin B-like compound, is found in high quantities in eggs, beef and chicken liver, wheat germ and soybeans. The National Academies of Science recommends nursing mothers increase choline intake to 550mg—the equivalence of two whole eggs.

*For more info on how choline helps during pregnancy, check Big Love, Low Risk: Your Guide to the Healthiest Pregnancy. You’ll also learn how Omega-3 fatty acids may decrease the risk of both post-partum depression and preterm labor. 

Cool Decor Ideas for Kid’s Rooms! March 24, 2008

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Decorating your child’s room presents an unusual dilemma: unlike the kitchen or living room, decorating your child’s room is an opportunity to actively involve your child in the process, helping define his or her favorite colors, interests, and personality.

Sit down with your child—if you can find a place to sit in that bedroom!—and talk about the stuff that makes up his or her life. Your child wants a cool hangout for friends and hobbies, and wants a look that expresses his or her individuality and independence. You want a room that can be kept organized, provides a study area, and is a complement to the rest of the home. The challenge is to create a special place that is a sleeping retreat, study, computer and audio-video room, and an entertaining space for friends. Where to begin?

Color, color, color! You know the old maxim: painting the walls is one of the most cost-effective yet dramatic remodels. The neutral palette in your dining area may be stunning, but in your kid’s room, double-dog-dare yourself. Paint the whole room in one solid hue, try color “blocks” (large squares of hues that “ground” a picture, mirror, or row of shelves) or try mixing paints and papers in contemporary patterns. Paint the walls in colors which best reflect your child’s personality; those are the hues that are most likely to make your child feel comfortable in his or her surroundings.

Pink. Your child is gentle and affectionate. A good communicator, your child lets people know how fond she is of them.
Yellow. Your child has an expansive personality that is bubbly and warm. He or she is cheerful, energetic and spirited in all activities.
Orange. Your child likes to lead games and be active. Talkative and lively, he or she has a generous spirit.
Red. Your child is competitive and socially assertive. Learning stimulates him or her, including dramatic artistic pursuits, such as theater and music. Your child is passionate about life.
Green. Your child is nurturer, caring for pets, and is sensitive to others’ feelings. Your child is relaxed, and enjoys the great outdoors.
Purple. Your child quietly observes others in social situations, which can give him or her a mysterious air. An intuitive soul, your child is comforting and reassuring when someone is troubled.
Blue. Your child is easy-going. He or she is comfortable with both friends and solo activities. His or her room is a place of tranquillity and peace.

San Diego-based Interior Decorator Michelle Strausbaugh assures parents, “If your child chooses a wall color you just can’t agree to, compromise by using the color in an area rug, beanbag chair or pillows. Should they tire of it, a new favorite can easily replace it.” 

Eye-catching lighting
Great lighting adds warmth and character to a room. Pendant lights are ideal for creating soft, diffused lighting without using any floor space. Hung overhead, these lights are away from curious hands and ever-growing limbs. Loose wires can be tamed with cord covers painted to match the wall. With cords and fixtures readily available for a very low cost, virtually anything can be made into a pendant light, simply by drilling a hole in the fixture. Keep glare and fire hazards to a minimum with low wattage (40w or less) bulbs. Hang different size pendants in an attractive grouping, or align 2-4 identical pendants in a row. 

Genius organizational tricks
Clothes, sporting equipment, books and CDs all require storage. Your local home center has a selection of closet organization systems available to manage everything in one spot. Many of these systems are adjustable, so that if your child gives up soccer for baseball, the shelves can be moved around to accommodate a glove and bat instead of a soccer ball. Install inexpensive bracket or floating shelves just below the ceiling to house books and mementos, or stack colorful cubes or bins for modular storage. Simple, inexpensive wood shelves look fabulous when the back is painted a contrasting or deeper hue than the bedroom wall, adding depth. Magnetic boards hold calendars and photos. Strausbaugh suggests parents “keep clutter in check by placing smaller toys in attractive baskets, or cover plain, cardboard containers with funky paper. Label containers so children can participate in clean up–for small children apply pictures of contents.”
Involve your child when deciding what goes where: he or she knows how often an item is used, and those daily items should be easily reached and replaced. Come up with the categories that make sense for your kid: Sports, Hobbies, Toys, Clothing, School stuff. The more your child feels a part of this process, the greater the likelihood he or she will keep up with the organization.  

Kids spend a lot of time with friends in their rooms, so choose additional seating pieces that do double-duty. Ottomans with built-in storage can house games or hobbies while also serving as a footstool or a game or snack table. Another great choice is an oversized armchair or futon that folds out to a twin bed: perfect for a stay-over guest! 

Grouping collections
Be sure to place all like items (all dolls, trophies, figurines, etc.) in one location. More attractive to the eye, this showcases your child’s interests and is a principle of feng shui. At clean-up time, putting things back where they belong is a no-brainer. Strausbaugh arranges favorite photos or sports cards on desktops, positioning clear or colored plexi-glass over the items to create a fun and washable work area.  

Setting up study areas
Your child’s desk is where greatness begins. Facilitate longer, more comfortable study periods by ensuring ample space to spread out books and papers in front of a computer. Pair it with a comfy chair. Choose a high-quality halogen light for the desk; Don’t depend on the ceiling fixture, which casts shadows, is not bright enough, and may cause headaches. Teach your child to put away pens, pencils and study materials before bed, leaving a tidy surface. This practice will help your child to have a more restful sleep, and presents a fresh space to get started for the next study session.  

Extra Special Extras!
Strausbaugh adds whimsy to kids’ rooms. “Kids love a ceiling with personality! Paint it a bright color, string twinkle lights, or hang their favorite posters. Utilize colorful clips to hang your child’s favorite items—photos, hats, stuffed animals, found items—to a cable system or clothing line strung across the room.   

Becoming Daddy February 1, 2008

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You’re dutifully shopping for the seemingly endless list of baby gear, you’re attending labor and delivery classes to prepare for the big Birth Day, but has anyone prepared you for after B-Day? Chances are, in the excitement and anticipation of bringing home a new baby, no one stopped to tell you, or your partner, about the reality of after-birth.

While mommy is star of the show in the delivery room, when you arrive home with your little bundle of joy, you’ll take center stage. You’ll never be more needed or more appreciated; taking care of your partner after a birth is your shining moment to become the hero. It won’t be easy; you’ll encounter bodily fluids and trips down drug store aisles that were before unknown. But no mission was ever more rewarding or worthwhile. This is your guide to mommy-care.

Fast-forward to homecoming and what to expect.
Mission Stratagem: Every successful mission needs a well-equipped Base Camp. After hours of labor and finally delivering the baby, (or after major abdominal surgery, a.k.a.: Cesarean section,) mommy will be bedridden. Mommy is not simply resting or more comfortable lying down, she is virtually unable to do anything but lay down, outside of using the bathroom. She may not be able to walk to the bathroom, in fact, and will require help with a bedpan. She will not, under any circumstances, be able to use stairs for some time, possibly weeks. Base Camp can be either a bed or couch on the main floor of your home. You can safely lodge both mommy and baby there. Bring in her favorite music, roll in the TV. Keep her baby-care books, a camera, and a telephone within reach.

Tip: Be sure the Base Camp bed isn’t made with your best sheets. Save the fancy robes and nightgowns for when visitors come; stains are inevitable.
Reward: This will be your “island” as a new family; it will be where you spend those first, very precious days together. The hours will melt into one another, and you will share some of the most intimate moments of your life together, staring in amazement at what you’ve created.

It takes a village…
Mission Stratagem: Turn to others for help. Since you will be helping your partner with the baby, and with several health concerns, you’ll both need food and water. Call in reinforcements now. (Possible reliable sources: Grandmothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, best friends, people from church, neighbors.) You must have a freezer stocked with healthy, quick to heat and serve food. You won’t have time for cooking or cleaning the house. You may even need to spoon-feed mommy if she can’t sit up. If all else fails, begin stocking up on take-out menus. Remember, nutrition is key-think calcium, whole grains, protein, and veggies.

Mommy will be fighting dehydration. Recovery, paired with nursing, will require plenty of fluids and healthy snacks. Keep a gallon jug of purified water at Base Camp constantly. Use it to refill a sippy-cup, or plastic cup with a straw. Replenish her with real fruit juices. Orange juice is a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Supply her with protein bars, dried and fresh fruit, crackers and cheese. Remember, you are on baby-time, which means there is no difference between day and night. She will need to have water and snacks available twenty-four hours a day.
Reward: A well-nourished mommy recovers faster and produces sufficient breast milk. The arrival of your reliable sources, and their home-cooked food, is a huge blessing. They have probably been through this before and can help you with the workload of running a household. And, they will be overjoyed to see the baby so soon after the birth.

The baby will sleep. A lot.
Mission Stratagem: Let mommy get her rest as well. Join her often, rest will help you to stay healthy and alert. When you are both awake, however, you can help mommy recover from pain with massage. Her back is likely sore. This is because her abdominal muscles are not where they once were and are not supporting her back. Gently use your hands to massage her, or roll a tennis ball under your palm. If you learned positive visualization or relaxation techniques in your prenatal class, put them to use now. If she has not had a C-Section, locate the top of her uterus (fundus), and massage it until it becomes firm. You will find it just below her belly button. Do this regularly to help it to shrink, and to control bleeding. Do this before nursing to alleviate cramping. For an itchy C-Section scar, the doctor can prescribe an ointment. Extra points: Compliment her beautiful body which produced such a perfectly wonderful little person. Carrying and delivering your child is an awesome and astonishing miracle.
Reward: After nine months of pregnancy, gentle touching and stroking of your partner is the welcome first intimacy you two will share as parents. Helping her with her pains is a loving and respectful way to show your gratitude for giving you a child.

Nursing: A New Frontier.
Mission Stratagem: Your partner may choose to breastfeed. The first few days after the birth, colostrums appear before her milk comes in. She should nurse as often as the baby wishes, usually every two hours. Neither mommy nor baby will be very efficient at first, they are both beginners! She will need plenty of patience and encouragement from you, until she becomes more skilled. Mommies rarely see the colostrums and often worry the baby will starve. Assure her that baby’s tiny clenched fist is roughly the size of a newborn stomach, and soiled or wet diapers are proof positive of a well-fed infant. As her milk comes in, she may become engorged and very sore. A cold compress will provide relief, along with pumping or expressing by hand. Her hormones may also cause her body to alternate between sensations of heat or extreme cold. Bear with her, adding or removing blankets as needed. Above all else, your calm and confident demeanor will help her maintain hers. If mommy had a Cesarean, she won’t be able to lift the baby. She can nurse while lying on her side, or place the baby on a nursing pillow or rolled blanket.
Reward: Beside breastfeeding’s numerous benefits to both baby and mother, you may be thankful for avoiding the high cost of formula. Breast milk expressed with a pump will allow you the closeness she shares with baby during feedings. Babies love skin-to-skin contact. Open your shirt and snuggle your child close while giving a bottle.

When Good Intentions Go Bad.
Mission Stratagem: Family members are often eager to help with the new baby. While their help and advice is often welcome, there are times when even the most well-meaning Nana or Auntie can be the cause, rather than the dispeller of, stress.

You are in charge of this mission. Therefore, gently and tactfully redirect those who freely dispense unwanted advice to highly valued tasks, like laundry or cooking. For those who are busy in the kitchen, but whose advice is needed at Base Camp, take over the stirring of the pot and send the advisor to mommy. And, should chaos prevail, shield mommy and baby from unnecessary stress by announcing the need for quiet time. Let them know when they may come for another visit.
Reward: You are daddy, hero, protector, and knower-of-what-is-best for mommy. Let poorly-chosen comments just roll off your back; you are strong, and quite frankly, too busy and too needed to be bothered.

No longer “No Man’s Land”.
Mission Stratagem: Just when you thought you’d seen it all in the delivery room, trips to the bathroom may become your biggest challenge. Your partner probably knew that there would be blood, but even she may not be prepared for the sheer volume of it. Gently explain that it is lochia (low-key-ah), a vaginal discharge from the wound left by the placenta. It will be bright red after the birth, then darken in color, and eventually pale. Nursing, which causes the uterus to contract, may cause some bleeding.
Prepare a squeeze bottle of boiled saltwater. Your partner will use this to rinse off after using the toilet. She can use toilet paper to blot, but not rub, dry. The greatest gift you can give mommy at this point are incontinence undergarments, such as Depend®. Have a good laugh about it with your partner, then go out and get them. There is simply no better “catch-all” for her condition over the next few weeks. Keep maxi-pads, undergarments and saltwater within reach of the toilet. She must not bend at the waist, so leave them on the counter or on a shelf.

You have probably never touched a maxi-pad in your lifetime, so the next suggestion may come as a surprise. Keep in mind that your partner likely feels as though she has passed a football through her privates-something in the ballpark of having the worst kick to the groin ever known to mankind. Take half a dozen maxi-pads into the kitchen, and with a soup ladle or large spoon, carefully pour water down the middle of each, then place in the freezer in a slightly “U” shape. These frozen pads will bring great relief when secured in an incontinence undergarment. The undergarment will absorb the water as it melts.

Be the king among new daddies: draw a bath for mommy. Do not add any soaps, bubble baths or oils, just warm water. Light some candles, put on some relaxing music, and help mommy into and out of the water. Note: if mommy had a C-Section, give her a warm sponge bath.
Reward: Your support of mommy, in even these less-than-glamorous tasks, will instill trust and openness in your relationship. She will feel confident that she can come to you for most anything, and that you, above everyone else, can be trusted and relied upon through the toughest of times.

Congratulations on your upcoming move into fatherhood! The days ahead are filled with yet greater rewards.

The Shopping List
Orange juice with added vitamin C and/or calcium
Other favorite 100% real fruit juices
1 dozen protein bars
Dried and fresh fruits
Whole grain bread and crackers
Whole grain cereals and popcorn
Milk, yogurt and cheese (cow’s milk or calcium-fortified soy-based)
4-5 gallons purified water
Squeeze bottle (peri bottle)
2-3 dozen maxi-pads (sanitary napkins)
1-2 packages incontinence undergarments (e.g. Depend®)
1 sippy-cup or package of straws
If mommy plans to breastfeed: breast cream, nursing pillow, breast pump, bottles and nipples, nursing pads.

When to Call the Doctor. Call your healthcare practitioner in the event of:
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Localized, persistent breast pain
Chills or fever over 100.4
Heavy, bright red vaginal bleeding (saturating more than 1 pad per hour)
Pain, redness or swelling over perineum or varicose veins
C-Section incision is persistently painful, or if the area around it turns dark red, or if a brown, gray, green or yellow discharge oozes from the wound.

Big Love, Low Risk: Your Guide to the Healthiest Pregnancy December 16, 2007

This previously published story (San Diego Family magazine) is now available for FREE reprint.
Simply include my byline and drop me a note indicating when and where it will appear.

At no other time of a woman’s life is she more concerned about good nutrition and health than during pregnancy. To celebrate this sometimes scary yet exhilarating new chapter of your life, your first loving act of parenting can be to protect your developing baby by caring for yourself.

When you’re expecting, it’s natural to be concerned about your health and that of your unborn baby. Maintaining a healthful diet, lowering stress and getting appropriate exercise and rest are all important for the health of a pregnant mother and her baby. Food safety is also very important. The following will help you make safe decisions when selecting and preparing food for yourself and your family, as well as helpful tips on reducing stress and keeping fit.

The Big Three

Scientific research continues to expand our knowledge of nutrition in pregnancy. Let’s begin with the Big Three: protein, calcium and folate. Use the Big Three as building blocks for all your meals. Be sure to include them with every meal to meet recommended daily requirements.

Protein is essential to your baby’s cell growth and blood production. In general, a pregnant woman requires 80-100 grams of protein daily. The best choices for pregnant women include lean meat, poultry, eggs, beans, peanut butter and tofu.The National Institute of Health states that folate, or folic acid, protects against neural tube defects including malformations of the spine (spina bifida), skull and brain (anencephaly).

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends a daily intake of 400-600 micrograms of folic acid per day from fortified foods and/or dietary supplements. The 2000 Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest pregnant mothers enjoy green leafy vegetables, dark yellow fruits and vegetables, beans, peas and nuts. Also, check the cereal aisle at the grocery store to find ready-to-eat cereals fortified with 100 percent of the RDA for folate.

Most women are aware of calcium’s role in building and maintaining healthy bones. During pregnancy, in addition to forming your baby’s bones, the mineral helps to conduct nerve impulses and aids in the proper function of your baby’s heart and other muscles. The recommended amount of calcium for a pregnant woman is 1,200 milligrams a day–just four cups of milk a day. Other dairy products like yogurt and hard cheese make excellent choices, or you can get your calcium through nondairy products such as collards, spinach, broccoli, okra, chickpeas, lentils, sweet potatoes and tofu. Also, choose foods that are fortified with calcium: orange juice, cereal, bread and cereal bars, to name a few. Check food labels for calcium levels of 30 percent RDA to get the same amount as you would from a cup of milk.

Now that you have your building blocks for each meal, you can ensure the healthy development of your growing baby with the following nutritional powerhouses. These nutrients have undergone worldwide scientific studies and have been found to be indispensable for human growth and development.

Brainies R Us

Give your little one a jumpstart at school! Omega-3 fatty acids have proven a critical component for both neurological and early visual development of infants. Recently published research has confirmed that adding omega-3 fatty acids to the diet of a pregnant woman can positively affect her baby’s visual and cognitive function–with effects measurable up to the age of four! Omega-3 fatty acids may also have positive effects on the pregnancy itself. According to Dr. Steve Hasley, a practicing obstetrician at West Penn Hospital, women with lower intakes of omega-3 fatty acids have a much greater risk of developing pre-eclampsia (also known as toxemia), a complication affecting approximately 5-10% of all pregnancies and a leading contributor to maternal mortality, preterm delivery, fetal growth retardation and perinatal mortality. Dr. Hasley adds that an even more important benefit is the role of omega-3 fatty acids in preventing pre-term labor and delivery. Women with lower amounts of omega-3 have a higher risk of preterm labor, and supplementation with this vital nutrient has been shown to decrease the risk. Omega-3 fatty acids may also lower the risk of post-partum depression. A pregnant woman should get at least 250 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per day using vitamin supplements, fish oil capsules, ground flax seeds, flax oil or fortified cereals.

Will your baby be President one day?

By adding choline to your diet now, you improve your chances of delivering a genius! The Journal of Neurophysiology (vol 91, April issue) reported study results indicating that taking choline during pregnancy could “super-charge” children’s brains for life. Scott Swartzwelder and colleagues at Duke University Medical Center in North Carolina, US, discovered that pregnant women who took choline, a member of the vitamin B family, gave birth to faster learners with better memories. Results of the study prompted the US Institute of Medicine to add choline to its 2003 list of essential nutrients, particularly for pregnant women. Daily requirements for pregnant and lactating women are 550 milligrams, or 2 egg yolks. While choline and omega-3 fatty acids are also found in liver, swordfish and tuna, those foods should be avoided during pregnancy. Liver is high in retinal, which can cause birth defects; swordfish and tuna fish have a high mercury content, which is harmful to fetuses.

Number one on the hitlist of trouble-foods, high-mercury fish is a prenatal no-no. Mercury occurs naturally in the environment and is also released into the air through industrial pollution. It accumulates in streams and oceans where fish absorb it. Eating fish and shellfish containing higher levels of mercury may harm an unborn baby or young child’s developing nervous system. In a 2004 report, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advised pregnant women, nursing mothers and young children to avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel`and tilefish. For fish and seafood lovers, they suggest only 12 ounces a week of low-mercury fish and shellfish, such as cooked shrimp, canned light tuna and salmon. Be advised, albacore (”white”) tuna has more mercury than canned light tuna.

Not The Usual Suspects

As a pregnant woman, you’ve never been hungrier. Since you’re spending more time in the kitchen, here are some helpful hints on food safety.

If you’ve always nibbled the uncooked cookie dough, savored Caesar salads with raw egg in the dressing or prepared your burgers medium rare, experts say pregnancy is a time to rethink these practices.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy have an effect on the mother’s immune system that lead to an increased susceptibility to listeriosis, a type of bacteria in contaminated food. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), pregnant women are about 20 times more likely than other healthy adults to get listeriosis. In fact, about one-third of listeriosis cases happen during pregnancy. Listeriosis can be transmitted to the fetus through the placenta even if the mother is not showing signs of illness. This can lead to premature delivery, miscarriage, stillbirth or serious health problems for her newborn.

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the FDA advise pregnant women to steer clear of hot dogs and luncheon or deli meats unless they are reheated until steaming hot. And, until the baby is born, wave bye-bye to soft cheeses such as feta, brie, camembert, blue-veined cheeses and Mexican-style cheeses such as queso blanco fresco. Anything labeled “unpasteurized” should be avoided, including beverages.More goodies that should never top your (whole grain, low-sodium) cracker: refrigerated pâté or meat spreads or refrigerated smoked seafood including those labeled as “nova-style,” “lox,” “kippered,” “smoked,” or “jerky.” Opt instead for hard cheeses and semi-soft cheeses such as mozzarella, pasteurized processed cheese slices and spreads. Cream cheese and cottage cheese and canned or shelf-stable pâté and meat spreads can be safely eaten.  

Take A Load Off

Pregnancy is a stressful time for many women. You may be feeling happy, sad and scared–all at the same time. As a new mommy, you are commencing a new life of love and concern for your child’s well-being. Now is the ideal time to learn how to cope with stress, while building energy and stamina through appropriate exercise. Any woman, pregnant or not, can cope better with stress if she is healthy and fit.

Speak with your doctor about which types of exercise would most benefit your unique pregnancy. Exercise keeps pregnant women fit, can prevent some common discomforts of pregnancy (e.g.: backache, fatigue and constipation) and relieves stress. Popular, safe choices for most mothers include prenatal-specific yoga, walking and swimming. A group prenatal exercise class creates a relaxed setting for meeting and talking with other expectant moms and allows temporary separation from a hectic workplace or the demands of maintaining a home.

Allow sufficient time to relax for the health of your baby and yourself. Maternal stress can affect your developing baby. Simple yet effective stress reducers include slipping into a warm (but not hot) bath, listening to quiet music or positive visualization tapes while lying on your left side, meditation, deep breathing or writing in a journal. Hormonal changes may be partly responsible for the mood swings experienced during pregnancy. These mood swings are common and normal. When possible, permit yourself to simply laugh about them. Often, after the baby is born, parents share a giggle over stumbling through mommy’s hormone-induced highs and lows together. Most importantly, attending all your prenatal care appointments will give you the reassurance that your baby is doing well and allow you to ask questions and share your feelings.

If stress is taking its toll on you, talk about your feelings with your partner, friends, relatives and health care practitioner. If you feel overwhelmed, talk with a trained counselor. New motherhood is a life-changing event. Fortunately, for today’s expectant moms, quality health information is available so that you can offer your child the best possible start in life. Change is indeed scary, but without change you wouldn’t be pregnant! Begin adjusting to your wonderful new life as mommy by making simple dietary and lifestyle adjustments that encourage a healthy, low-risk pregnancy.

Pregnancy Superfoods!

You’ll meet your recommended daily allowances in no time with these nutrient-rich food choices!

• 2 whole eggs offer 17 grams of protein and an entire day’s choline requirement.
• 1 4-ounce glass of vitamin D-fortified milk offers 8 grams of protein and 300 milligrams of calcium with vitamin D to help absorb it.
• 2 Tbsp peanut butter offers 8 grams of protein, 15 milligrams of calcium and folate.
• Green leafy veggies offer folate, fiber (to relieve constipation) and calcium.
• Read the cereal box: Many whole or multigrain cereals are fortified with omega-3-rich flax and offer up to 100 percent of the RDA for folate, not to mention protein and fiber. Pour a cup of milk over it, add a piece of fruit and you’ve made an ideal start to your day!  

Special note:
Please note that smoking, second-hand smoke and the use of alcohol and/or narcotics are extremely dangerous to your unborn baby. If you haven’t abstained from nicotine, drugs or alcohol, stop now. Get help through a local program or with the assistance of a medical professional. Also, several types of over-the-counter or prescription medications could pose a danger to your developing infant. Discuss the use of any medication with your practitioner.  

Are you selecting baby gear and decorating your nursery? Fisher Price has a chic, gender-neutral new line of baby products, The Zen Collection. Check it out here!

Winter Wellness - Coping With the Common Cold November 9, 2007

This previously published story (San Diego Family magazine) is now available for FREE reprint.
Simply include my byline and drop me a note indicating when and where it will appear.

Most children will develop at least six to eight colds a year. Every year, more doctor visits and absences from school and work are caused by upper respiratory infection–the common cold–than any other illness. According to Sharp Healthcare, during a one-year period, people in the US will suffer an estimated one billion colds. There is no cure for the cold, so what should you take? Although over-the-counter drugs may bring relief, many usually cause unpleasant side effects. Your drug store’s vitamin display hosts an endless selection of supplements, but it’s not easy to know what to try and what to sneeze at. Because the cold-bug has bugged people as long as there have been people, many old-time remedies are tried-and-true. Here’s a list of treatments with the most scientific evidence in their favor.

Echinacea(eck-in-ay-shah) can reduce the symptoms and duration of colds or even stop a cold. Until the 1930s, echinacea was the number one cold and flu remedy in the United States. It lost its popularity with the arrival of sulfa antibiotics. Ironically, sulfa antibiotics are as ineffective against colds as any other antibiotic, while echinacea does seem to be helpful.

Commission E, the German government agency charged with investigating herbs, recommends treatment of colds with echinacea purpurea, beginning as soon as you notice symptoms. Choose a preparation used in clinical studies, such as Echinaforce and EchinaGuard.

Elderberry, taken as a tea, is an old and effective remedy for relieving coughs, treating sinus congestion, and reducing the pain and swelling of a sore throat. Studies have found that elderberry extract interfered with the growth of multiple strains of both influenza A and B viruses in cell cultures. The tea is relaxing and produces a mild perspiration that helps to reduce fever. In a double-blind study performed in Israel, a standardized elderberry extract reduced the recovery time from a particular strain of epidemic influenza by almost fifty percent.

Garlic(Allium sativum) has antibacterial properties and helps detoxify the body. The story of garlic’s role in human history has filled countless books on health. Dioscorides wrote of garlic’s ability to “clear the arteries” as far back as the first century AD. The famous microbiologist, Louis Pasteur, performed some of the original studies proving garlic could kill bacteria. Garlic was called “Russian penicillin” during World War II because, after running out of antibiotics, the Russian government turned to this ancient treatment for its soldiers. After World War II, Sandoz Pharmaceuticals manufactured a garlic compound for intestinal spasms, and the Van Patten Company produced another for lowering blood pressure. In 2001, a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial provided meaningful evidence that garlic might treat or prevent colds. Results showed that participants receiving garlic were almost two-thirds less likely to catch cold. Even better, participants in the garlic group who did catch cold recovered about one day faster. As a commonly used food, garlic is on the FDA’s GRAS (generally recognized as safe) list.

Zinc lozenges may be moving toward acceptance by practitioners of traditional medicine. In 1996 the Cleveland Clinic tested zinc gluconate lozenges and found using zinc in the first 24 hours after cold symptoms occurred shortened the duration of symptoms. Note: Excessive amounts of zinc can result in nausea and vomiting. Do not to exceed the recommended dosage. Choose a lozenge made without refined sugar.

Chicken Soup The healing properties are not an old wives’ tale! Researchers at Nebraska Medical Center set out to determine which components of the soup were cold-fighters, using samples of chicken and a portion of each of the vegetables, as reported in the October 2000 journal of the American College of Chest Physicians. The results of the study demonstrated that “a variety of soup preparations…presented evidence that chicken soup might have an anti-inflammatory activity.” However, that the sum is greater than its parts. “Pureed carrots or other vegetables are not recommended as a remedy while chicken soup is.” Dr. Douglas Hoffman recommends that you will feel “a whole lot better if you stay well-hydrated and keep the calories flowing in. Chicken soup is arguably one of the best things you can eat when you are ill with the cold or flu. One simple meal provides water, electrolytes, calories, and plenty of nutrients.” The Egyptian Jewish physician, Moshe ben Maimonides, recommended chicken soup for respiratory tract symptoms back in the 12th century which were, in turn, based on earlier Greek writings.

Love in a Bowl: Chicken Noodle Soup

3/4 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (approx. 3 medium breasts) cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 medium stalks celery, sliced
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2-4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
4 (14.5 ounce) cans reduced sodium chicken broth
1 cup parsnips
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1 cup uncooked rotini or favorite pasta Bring all ingredients except pasta to boil, stirring occasionally. Stir in pasta and return to boil. Reduce heat and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, until pasta and vegetables are tender. Makes 8, 12oz. Servings; Calories: 157; Total fat: 1gram; Cholesterol: 25mg; Sodium: 490mg; Carbohydrate: 16grams; Protein: 22grams; Dietary fiber: 2grams 

3 Bug Myths
1. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses. Many believe that when mucus turns yellow, it means that a bacterial infection has occurred for which antibiotic treatment is indicated. However, viruses can also produce yellow mucus.

2. Vitamin C is not your best defense. The late Dr. Linus Pauling was a famous and enthusiastic advocate of the healing powers of vitamin C. But 30 major trials prove no consistent evidence that taking vitamin C prevents colds. It has been noted, however, that the vitamin can help shorten the duration of a cold.

3. Getting wet or being in a draft does not cause a cold.

Am I Contagious?
Crowded Areas.
When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, tiny fluid droplets containing the virus are expelled. If you breathe these in, the virus may establish itself.

Direct Contact.
If a person with a cold touches his runny nose or watery eyes, then shakes hands with you, some of the virus is transferred.

Don’t Touch That! Inanimate objects (doorknobs, telephones, toys) can become contaminated with the virus. If a child with a cold touches his runny nose, then plays with a toy, some of the virus may be transferred to the toy. When another child plays with the toy, then touches her contaminated hands to her eyes, nose, or mouth, she transfers some of the cold virus to herself.

Tips to avoid getting sick, in the homeroom or the boardroom:

• Wash your hands several times a day with soap and water.
• Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Drink plenty of fluids, avoiding acidic juices, which may irritate the throat.
• Gargle with warm salt water, for a sore throat. Add one teaspoon of salt to eight ounces of water.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when you sneeze or cough. Then, wash your hands.
• Get enough rest, don’t smoke, eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and exercise regularly.
• Don’t spread the virus! Avoid going to work or school with a fever or bad cough. People with colds are contagious during the first two to four days of the infection.

Speak with your doctor about these non-drug treatments, and be careful not to exceed dosage recommendations on the package of any supplement, prescription, or over-the-counter drug.

 I Feel Like I’ve Been Hit By a Bus!
Exactly what causes the aches, pains and runny nose?

The common cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract (nasal passages and throat) caused by one of many viruses, most commonly from the rhinovirus family. As the cold virus multiplies in the body, the mucus membranes in the respiratory tract swell, causing the air passages to narrow, making breathing difficult. The sinuses become congested. The nose runs. Sneezing, a sense of fullness or achiness in the head, and tearing or burning eyes are all part of the process. At the most contagious phase of a cold, the nasal secretions are thin, watery mucus that is almost entirely composed of viral discharge. When the secretions turn thick and yellowish or greenish, that means the discharge is full of dead white blood (immune system) cells, dead viral particles, and dead bacteria. This is a sign of healing and the least contagious stage of a cold. A common cold, if uncomplicated, lasts about five to ten days. A child who is sick for more than 14 days in a row has probably contracted a series of viruses. While your child’s immature immune system is busy fighting the first virus, another can settle in.  Colds usually strike 24 hours after the virus enters the body. Occasionally a cold can lead to more serious conditions, such as ear infection, sinusitis, bronchitis or influenza. Contact your health care provider if your fever goes above 102°F, if the lymph nodes in your neck are hard and swollen, or if you develop shortness of breath.

ABC TV Feature Update June 29, 2007

See me on KABC (Channel 7 in the LA area) on Monday, November 7, during the 5 am, 6 am and 11 am morning shows!

ABC Channel 7 Interview June 29, 2007

My 15 Minutes: I’m so incredibly honored to be interviewed by ABC News http://abclocal.go.com/kabc (channel 7 in the LA area) for an upcoming feature on mommies who blog. I will post info shortly on when it will air.
First, a big cheer to all mommy bloggers online, taking time out of hectic family schedules to say a few words about their nearest and dearest. It’s a worthwhile task, and through blogging, we’re all in this together.
Dina Majoli and cameraman Sean put me right at ease. As a writer, I don’t spend much (any) time in front of the camera–it’s at the keyboard, on the phone and between the lines of research materials. It’s flattering to be chosen, considering the many inspiring blogs I’ve read–some which have brought me to tears–and the experience helped clarify just what motivates me to post any of the minutia of our family. After all, I’m occasionally haunted by the fear that blogging may be outrageously narcissistic.
Dina, a new mother herself, is also a blogger (ellacaroline.blogspot.com). A transplant from the southeastern States, her blog “provides a chance for our loved ones to watch her [daughter] learn and grow each day.” That’s a powerful description of blogging’s ability to keep widespread families in touch.
When Joseph was born, I had an overwhelming desire to communicate to him just how intensely loved he is and how he’d changed our lives in ways that left us entirely awe-inspired. Simply, he totally rocked our world! I wanted him to know just how much we treasure him and decided to begin a lasting record of our lives together, just for him. With our own extended family across the US and into Canada, the blog, of course, has helped those we love come to know many details about our son that help personalize his young life for them, even across the miles. When we do get together, they have intimate knowledge of his wee workings. Yes, I often wonder if the day-to-day events of our lives are interesting only to us, yet the kind words and excited feedback we receive from family, friends and–amazingly–strangers confirm the value of publicly sharing joy.
As a mother in love with mothering, I can easily admit that worry about making the best and healthiest choices, (mostly irrational) fear for my son’s safety and sleep deprivation-induced self-doubt plague me regularly. In my mind, a good deal of whining and complaining can go on before I finally come to the blog to reach out to the thousands of moms online. The beauty of the vast online community is that it puts a girl’s problems in perspective. Honestly, is there ANY issue of parenting that most, if not every other mom goes through? We all want the best for our babies, and as soon as I begin to write about my seemingly singular struggle with this concern or that, I quickly realize that there is probably nothing I could say that another mom hasn’t experienced herself. This realization is wildly cathartic! My burden is immediately lifted and the situation suddenly becomes entirely livable–if not laughable–and I owe my thanks to the many blogging mommies who offer help, a comforting word and cheerful commiseration.
This is our online mommy group, and together we make up that “village” it takes to raise a child.