Being pregnant in the winter means that you will have some things to pay special attention to that you may not ordinarily have to during other months of the years. Some helpful tips for winter pregnancies include:


1. Maintain Hydration: During the cold weather, your body consumes water to humidify the air you breathe and to warm it up. Keeping hydrated will also help fight dry skin & maintain proper blood and amniotic fluid production.

2. Maintain Moisture to Nasal Passages: Nose bleeds seem to be more common during pregnancy due to hormones. But, the dry air of the winter months and from running the heater, can add an extra challenge to sensitive nasal passages. Restoring moisture to rooms by running a humidifier is helpful. Also, applying a pea-size amount of petroleum jelly to the inside of your nostrils and using a saline spray can help to reduce the dryness and prevent nose bleeds. Always call your doctor if nose bleeds are frequent or are difficult to stop.

3. Dress in Layers: Since your body runs about 2 degrees higher than normal during pregnancy, you may find that dressing in layers is most comfortable. For a layered outfit, try wearing a simple tank top under a light-weighted maternity sweater.

4. Wear Comfortable Boots with Good Traction: Invest in a pair of comfortable boots with good traction if you live in an area where snow and ice are prevalent. Pregnancy hormones, making you joints looser than normal, coupled with the fact that your center of gravity is off, can make you more susceptible to falls. If you exercise outdoors, consider buying a pregnancy-specific exercise DVD to use indoors.

5. Moisturize your Skin: Cold and windy weather makes your skin dry and itchy, so moisturizing with a safe, natural, and gentle unscented lotion is helpful. Also, keep your lips moist and prevent them from becoming dry and cracked with lip balm.

It seems like many are discovering that they have low vitamin D levels and it is becoming more common for doctors to test for vitamin D levels during routine blood work. If you are having a yearly physical exam or blood work done, you may want to ask your doctor about having your vitamin D level checked. Vitamin D helps your body with many functions, including the absorption of calcium,  to help form and maintain strong bones. Recent studies suggest that vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, and many autoimmune diseases. According to an associate at the Pitt Public Health Department of Epidemiology, "Vitamin D deficiency in early pregnancy is associated with lower birth weights." I would suggest calling your doctor to ask about your need for vitamin D supplements.

For additional reading, you may want to view the following articles:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/vitamin-d/NS_patient-vitamind

http://www.publichealth.pitt.edu/news.php?id=375

The experience of breastfeeding can be challenging for the new mom, is surely was for me with my first born! However, it was a totally different experience with my second and third babies. The main contributing factors to the frustration with my first born, were mainly due to inexperience and stress. Therefore, I believe that it is crucial for a new mom to learn about breasting feeding several months before her baby is due. It is a natural experience, but it definitely does not come naturally and practice, patience, and support is vital. There may be breastfeeding classes to take at your local hospital, you can consult with a lactation specialist, and even watch you tube videos to help you learn about this new experience. My advice is to learn and prepare, as much as possible, to ensure your best success, which will then reduce your stress, which is a major factor to a positive nursing experience. Quality nursing clothing, such as nursing tops, nursing bras, nursing dresses, and nursing pajamas will contribute to a good experience, too!

The following link provides 24 helpful breastfeeding tips: Click Here!

http://www.pregnancyandbaby.com/pregnancy/articles/945397/pregnancy-colds-and-flu-tips-to-feel-better
Good article to read about cold and flu tips during pregnancy!

Great article on 10-fast-foods-a-pregnant-woman-could-love-and-five-to-avoid:

Pregnancy Nutrition http://www.babycenter.com/0_10-fast-foods-a-pregnant-woman-could-love-and-five-to-avoid_1313899.bc?print=true

Expecting parents spend a lot of time and energy when choosing baby names. Consequently, there is usually an interesting story behind the choice for each name.  I have found that asking others about  their "name story" can actually be a very intriguing conversation piece. Try asking someone about their "name story" and what their experience has been with the name their parent's chose for them. You may find that their response gives good insight to consider when deciding on a name for your baby. This evening, I asked a few people, aged 24 to 70, about their "name story" and have summarized some things for you to consider, based off of their responses.

 Things to consider when choosing your baby's name:

1. Would the name lend to being a source of embarrassment or teasing by peers, especially during the elementary and junior high days? The negative memories, from being constantly teased about a name, are not easily forgotten.

2. Would the name be difficult for others to pronounce? It can be frustrating & embarrassing when others, especially teachers, have difficulty pronouncing one's name correctly.

3. Would the name be especially difficult to spell?  It can become frustrating to be constantly asked how to spell one's name or for it to be repeatedly misspelled by others.

4. Is the name really cute or unique for a newborn baby, but not for a grown adult?

5. A name can be meaningful, such as one inspired by a distant relative, but some found it to be too unusual and would have rather had a more common name from the current time and culture.

After you decide upon your baby's name, you will feel a great sense of accomplishment! Share your excitement and announce or display your baby's name at your Baby Shower. There are many creative ways to reveal or share your baby's name with family and friends.
To view some great ideas, go to the Baby Shower and Baby Names section at the following website http://pinterest.com/ModMomma3/

Morning sickness occurs in up to 75% of pregnant women during their first three months of pregnancy. The main symptom is nausea, which may be accompanied by vomiting. It is thought that nausea occurs from rising levels of hormones and the increased sensitivity to smells. Usually, the symptoms are more pronounced in the morning and taper off as the day progresses. However, the symptoms seem to vary with each individual. Personally, I experienced slight nausea during the day and vomited in the early evening. I have thought that this may have occurred since I was reluctant to share the news of my pregnancy with my new employer and mentally held out until I arrived home. For my sister, she was extremely sensitive to smells and her nausea would be triggered immediately upon opening her refrigerator. She experienced a greater degree of morning sickness and had to carry a large container with her while driving home from work in case she needed to vomit.

Although each case varies in severity, I have found the following suggestions to ease the nausea of  morning sickness:

1. Get plenty of rest. I took a 20 minute nap during my lunch break or when I got home from work.

2. Arise slowly from bed in the morning. I kept a few crackers next to my bed, taking a few bites before I got up for the day.

3. Avoid caffeine, fatty and spicy foods. These can cause stomach irritation.

4. Eat less, but more frequently, every 2 hours or less. Eat quality carbohydrates, such as low acid fruits and veggies. I found that pairing a quality carbohydrate snack with protein was best. My favorites were banana or apple with peanut butter, and crackers with peanut butter or cheese.

5. Stay active. If possible, take a brief walk out in the fresh air 1-2 times per day.

6. Keep hydrated. I found that carrying a water bottle with me throughout the day worked best.

7. Avoid known triggers. For my sister, this was avoiding the refrigerator. Her husband did most of the cooking during her first trimester!

8. Consider wearing motion sickness wrist bands. These are available at your local pharmacy.

9. Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Studies have shown this to reduce the nausea of morning sickness.

10. Iron supplements have been linked with nausea. Talk with your medical doctor about this concern, if you are taking these.

11. Keep a sprig of fresh rosemary with you, some have found that smelling it may reduce nausea.

12. Ginger has anti-nausea properties. Consider putting a small slice of it in your water or boiling to make tea. I carried a few natural ginger candies in my purse.

Are you experiencing swollen ankles, feet, and hands during your pregnancy? These symptoms seem to be more common for expecting moms who are due in the summer months, in their final months of pregnancy, or past due. According to the American Pregnancy Association, a woman's body produces 50% more blood and body fluids during pregnancy, to meet the needs of the developing baby, which can contribute to swelling. Although slight swelling is common, a sudden swelling of the face and hands can indicate a more serious condition and your doctor should be notified.

Some helpful hints to help reduce mild swelling during pregnancy are:

♥Limit outdoor time when weather is hot
♥Limit long periods of standing
♥Elevate feet while resting
♥Avoid heels & wear comfortable shoes
♥Wear supportive tights or stockings. For maximum effect, keep the supportive stockings under your pillow & then put them on while lying horizontal, before you stand up to get out of bed in the morning. This may require some assistance, especially during the final month of pregnancy!
♥Avoid tight fitting clothes
♥Swim or relax in a refreshing pool
♥Apply cold compresses to swollen area
♥Limit salt intake
♥Drink doctor recommended amount of water & avoid caffeine

Suga' Lips Lip Balm: To keep lips moist during windy, dry weather & at baby's delivery!

Maternity Pajamas: To cuddle up for a comfy night of rest!

Jewelry: To show excitement for new baby & accessorize outfits!

Cleopatra's Luxurious Milk Bath: To use in a warm bath, to relax and wind down from the day!

Diaper Bag Purse: To use as a stylish purse now & later as a diaper bag for baby!

There is so much to do during the final weeks before your baby's due date! Very soon you will be holding your lil' one in your arms! Remember to pack a cute & comfy "Going Home Outfit" in your hospital bag! Plan to take pictures and even a video recording of getting your new baby dressed in his or her "Going Home Outfit." As you leave the hospital, you may want to record your thoughts and feelings on video. These very special moments will be something special to share with your child as he or she grows older. It is a time that you will want to share and remember forever!

ModMomMaternity: Relax and Wind Down Your Day in Comfort: There is no greater way to relax and wind down from your day than to slip into comfy maternity pajamas ! Whether you prefer long or shor...

There is no greater way to relax and wind down from your day than to slip into comfy maternity pajamas! Whether you prefer long or short sleeve pajamas, a night gown or lounge pant set, it is all about comfort! If you are a nursing mom, or plan to be, check that the pajamas have nursing access.

5 Great Ways to Wear your Expecting Color!

Whether you are expecting a boy or girl,  it's always fun to wear your expecting color! Here are 5 great ways to wear your expecting color:

1. Wear a tunic maternity top, in blue or pink, and pair with your favorite pair of maternity jeans. Dress up your outfit and style by wearing jewelry and comfortable pumps, and by adding a few curls to your hair!

2. Wrap a cute blue or pink patterned scarf around your neck, if you are expecting in the fall or winter months.

3. Put on a blue or pink ball cap on casual days, when you only have time to pull your hair into a quick pony tail. Caps are great to protect your face from harmful sun rays, too!

4. Wear a light weight blue or pink button down or open sweater over a white or black maternity Cami and pair with your favorite maternity pants or jeans.

5. Carry a blue or pink designer diaper bag purse, which can be used as a stylish purse during your pregnancy and a diaper bag for your baby after you deliver.

In my experience as a mom, I found my husband to be the more active and playful parent when interacting with our children. From playing ball to taking them on hikes, he was the initiator of fun activities! I clearly remember our three young children getting a huge burst of energy and jumping up from watching their favorite video, which I had hoped to fully occupy them while I was fixing dinner, when they heard their daddy come in the door from work. Then they would excitedly run to play in the backyard with him, not wanting to come inside for dinner. Their energy always amazed me and I loved the close relationships he built with each of them through initiating and sharing fun activities.

So, what could be more useful, for a daddy of small children, than The Man Sling? This is a rugged looking baby sling which comes in 3 different masculine colors, yet is made of fabric that is comfortable against the baby's skin. It has a handy cargo pocket for a wallet, cell phone, and keys, or even an extra diaper and wipes. Now your husband can take the newest addition of your family on hikes or even carry his little one around the house while helping you with light household chores. This makes a great gift that both daddy and baby will be sure to enjoy!

                       A "Very Comfortable Essential" for your Maternity Wardrobe!

Maternity Leggings are one of the most comfortable & versatile items to have in your maternity wardrobe. They are stretchy, so they will grow with you during your 9 months of pregnancy. They can be paired with tunic style maternity tops for a casual or dressy look. Wear with cute flats, low heels, or boots for great style. They can even be worn for exercise when paired with a comfortable maternity t-shirt and tennis shoes! Leggings are sure to be a staple in your maternity clothes collection!

  "Save" while shopping for Holiday Maternity Dresses!

You may be looking for a special maternity dress to wear for holiday events this year, but wanting to avoid the stress of holiday shopping! The great news is that you can view a large selection of designer maternity dresses in the comfort of your home by shopping online. Get yourself a cup of warm tea, turn on the holiday music, and enjoy a relaxing shopping experience at a time that is most convenient for you! Here are just a few things that you will "Save" on while shopping online:

1. Save Time
*You will not need to wait in line.
*You will not need to spend time traveling to the store or stores.
*You will not need to repeatedly circle the parking lot looking for a parking spot.
2. Save Money
*You will not spend money on transportation (gas, transit fares, tolls, & parking).
*You can easily check the prices at a variety of stores with just a few mouse clicks.
*You can easily view & receive discount offers, free shipping and more.
3. Save Your Health
*You have a much better chance of staying healthy by avoiding masses of people.
*You will not have to use public restrooms.
*You will not have to carry bags or get sore legs and aching feet from walking all over the place.

Sibling Gift Ideas from New Little Brother or Sister!

Are you an expecting mom that has children who are excited to meet their new brother or sister? Although your children are excited, you may notice them having mixed emotions when the family's newest addition arrives! Since your attention is now focused on the new baby, they may start acting out in various new ways, that you have not previously seen or heard. To help alleviate some of their frustrations, over the struggle for your attention, a special gift from the baby, may help make them feel special & focus some positive attention on them. Be aware of the behavior changes that occur and gently love them through this time of transition. Giving them opportunities to help you with the baby, such as getting a diaper or blanket, can be helpful in making them feel important, too!

Make pumpkin chip cookies, wrap in clear bag, add personal gift tag

                                                 Pregnant for the Holidays?

Are you due to have your baby around the holiday season or shortly thereafter? If so, you may be looking to find a special maternity evening dress for an upcoming holiday event.  A neutral black dress is always great to have in your maternity clothes wardrobe, to dress up with accessories or to simply wear for a more casual look by wearing comfortable flat sandals or shoes. Visit ModMomMaternity online for a wide selection of beautiful maternity evening dresses and more!

                                          

                   Carrying everything, but the kitchen sink?

You may have heard someone say that a mom carries everything but the kitchen sink in her purse! Well, this may be quite an exaggeration, but it seems that this comment has come from the fact that a mom learns to carry many things in her purse, just in case the unexpected happens! And, perhaps she began to learn this when she became a new mom!  As a mom or dad of a newborn, you will find yourself carrying just about everything but the kitchen sink in your newborn's diaper bag, too! We all quickly learn that we need to be well prepared, just in case the unexpected happens, especially when it comes to being a new parent!

One day, when I was happily driving my 2 young children and newborn to get their hand prints pressed into clay to make a beautiful ceramic plate, the unexpected happened!  As I carefully took my newborn out of her car seat, she had a projectile explosion all over her & my new outfit! This is when I learned that not only did I need to carry an extra one or two outfits for her, but also for myself! Most of the time, a diaper bag is the home for diapers, wipes, bottles, baby food, bottom balm, lil' outfits and pacifiers, but wouldn't it be nice if it had room for a change of clothes for mom or dad, too?

Needless to say, I soon came to realize the need for a larger diaper bag, one that could come in handy on those days when bigger things were to happen than I had expected, which seems to happen quite often in the life of parents with newborns! If you are going to be out and about for the day,  ModMomMaternity suggests the backpack diaper bag. Our online store offers a wide selection of the best diaper bags by Kalencom. We would love for you to stop by and see for yourself! Oh, and by the way, we'd love for you to share your story of when you could have used a larger diaper bag for your "unexpected happening!"

                          Acne during Pregnancy

The hormone changes that occur in a pregnant woman's body sometimes cause acne flare ups, especially in those who already have a tendency towards acne. Why does this happen? Hormone imbalances can cause the oil glands to produce excess oil & dead skin cells, clogging pores. Since bacteria like to hang out in this type of environment, they get trapped inside the clogged pores, resulting in inflammation & the formation of pimples! A key factor in helping to control acne breakouts is to keep your skin clean, thereby decreasing bacteria. Since particular ingredients in acne products can be harmful to pregnant women, choose skin care products that are natural, safe, & gentle. Always be sure to consult with your doctor for questions & concerns.

                             "Signature Dish," a Great Family Tradition!

Do you have a particular recipe that others really like and that you are repeatedly asked to bring for special family occasions and holiday feasts? Creamed corn has become my "signature dish." It has been a family favorite for Thanksgiving and Christmas and I would like to share it with you!

To make corn mixture, heat the following ingredients in a large sauce pan over the stove. Bring to a boil & simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from the heat.

Corn Mixture Ingredients:

2-1/2 bags of frozen corn (16 ounce size bags)
16 ounces (1 pint) whipping cream
16 ounces (1pint) whole milk
2 teaspoons salt
4 Tablespoons sugar
2 pinches white pepper
2 pinches of cayenne pepper

Thickening Agent:

In separate small sauce pan, mix 4 Tablespoons of melted butter & 4 Tablespoons of flour together. Then add to the corn mixture, as a thickening agent.

Put mixture in a 9x13 casserole dish & dust with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Broil in the oven until cheese is lightly browned. May take 8-10 minutes, but keep a close watch!

From the time I was a new mom, I have found cooking to be a very special part of motherhood. Since children love to help in the kitchen, cooking is a great way to create fun & special memories. Think of a favorite recipe or ask a family member or friend for a recipe idea that you can make this year. If you have children, they would love to help you prepare this new recipe! Soon, it may be your family's "Signature Dish" and become a great family tradition!

Jen's Journey: The "Power of a Praying Parent" Week # 9

But Mom, It's Tradition...

When I was a new mom, I didn't think intentionally about the idea of creating special family traditions, mostly because I didn't realize the importance of them in the lives of my children.  It wasn't until my 17 year old daughter expressed, "But Mom, It's a Family Tradition!" that I realized the importance of simple family traditions.

From the time my daughter was born, she had participated in our family's annual "Christmas Cookie Party," with her siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. In 2010, not only was she, her older siblings, and many of her cousins reaching adulthood, but it was an especially busy & stressful Christmas season. My sister and I reasoned, "the kids are getting too old for this tradition anyway and it would make our lives a whole lot easier if we just skipped the Christmas Cookie Party this year." I know, you can probably see the writing on the wall and you are right, our announcement did not go over too well, to say the least! Not only did my daughter sigh the words I mentioned earlier, but her older sister and a few of the cousins, were not pleased either! It didn't take long for my sister and I to change our attitude and muster up the energy to begin the cookie party preparations! Next week, I will share about some of our Thanksgiving family traditions.  And after Thanksgiving, I will blog about the details of our family Cookie Party Tradition! But for now, I just wanted to share how I believe that creating simple & fun family traditions become a very special part of the legacy we create as moms in building happy family memories! I hope I have sparked some interest in you to start being intentional about the idea of creating special family traditions! You won't regret it and either will your children!

• http://modmommaternity.com/

The "Greatly Expectant" Stage of Pregnancy

What do I mean by "Greatly Expectant?" Well, it is a term that I came up with to explain the stage of pregnancy when a woman finds herself pregnant, for perhaps days or weeks, beyond her due date. Some would term this stage "Past-Due," but when I was pregnant with my first child, and three weeks past my due date, I came up with a new term called, "Greatly Expectant." It was a time that I felt like I was literally about to pop! My tummy had grown beyond what I or my husband had ever thought or imagined was possible! I had swollen feet and could no longer fit into any of my shoes! I was only  able to fit into one dress, which I called my "tent dress." My clothing options were minimal, I could either wear my "tent dress" or my husband's clothes! Besides coming to a state of complete clothing despair, it was during this "Greatly Expectant" time that I almost came to a state of complete despair from curious, yet well-meaning, strangers not hesitating to ask me some "Greatly Expectant" questions or sharing their personal opinions! These questions went something like this:  "Sooo.......When are you due?" or "How many babies do you have inside there???" or "Are you having twins?" To be honest, I did not handle these questions too well. I found myself breaking into tears, right in the middle of the mall, and waddle-running to the closest bathroom to have a meltdown! At the time, I was not able to realize that they had no clue that I was three weeks past my due date and very sensitive! By the way, I do not think that most doctors allow pregnant mommies to get too far into the "Greatly Expectant" Stage these days! Anyway, I did learn a few things during this time that I would like to share. I learned that it is okay to move up to the next size of maternity clothes and that many pregnant women, especially during the final stages of pregnancy, can feel overly sensitive due to changes in their hormones. This was comforting news! I also learned that I needed to have an attitude adjustment! I began to think about how amazing it is for a "Greatly Expectant" mom to put a complete stranger at ease, making them feel comfortable to ask her such personal questions or share from their experience of being pregnant. I also came to realize that most people are truly excited for pregnant moms and their new little one who is on his or her way! Pregnancy is an exciting time and I now realize that even complete strangers share in the excitement & expectancy of new life! (ModMomMaternity offers a cute "Due Date" necklace, click here to view)

When I think about the the joy that the expectancy of life brings to the pregnant mom, dad, family, and complete strangers, it reminds me of how important new life is to God, our Creator!

 Psalm 139: 13-14 says,
“For You formed my inward parts;
You covered me in my mother’s womb.
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well.”    Psalm 139:13-14

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