Ive been slacking big time again, but things have been crazy.
Though prop 37 didn't pass, it shows that people WANT to know what is in their food. It is their right. With over 4 million votes for each side, YES on 37 lost by only 6% (47% to 53%). That's a very slim margin considering NO on 37 spent over $43 million on trying to block the labeling of GMOs and YES on 37 spent only $8 million. I think we could make this happen in Rhode Island. Whos with me?
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Saturday, November 3, 2012
SHOGUN
The one thing I will miss from this place: SHOGUN. It's a Hibachi restaurant. Delicious. I ate sooo much tonight and we had a really good time. I am babysitting two little ones until 5am so I won't post too much tonight but I wanted to make sure I got something in here at least. My cat OJ loves baby stuff. I think he believes he really is my baby. OH! Don't forget to set the clocks back at 2am! I will. I'm sure of it lol. We have a few people interested in the house which is good. I hope we can get a renter! Anyway, going to bed early tonight. I'm tired. Goodnight!
Friday, November 2, 2012
National Blog Posting Month
Nov 1- National blog posting month. This means I must blog every day for the whole month. I'm still unsure if I can do this because of everything going on but I am going to try to make a better effort than I have been. Ryan and I are doing our last shopping trip in the state of Tennessee tonight after the maternity pictures (which I will be sure to post!). We aren't getting much. We are planning on completely clearing out our cabinets so that we can start over 100% when we move. That reminds me, I have to take out something for dinner.
Not going to lie things are starting to make me nervous. The house hasn't sold yet and it probably won't, so we're forced to find someone to rent within the next two weeks. We are going to be asking somewhere between 925-975 but that is out of a lot of people's budgets. We have no choice though, property managers I'm getting worried that we really might not be able to leave this place or worse... Have to come back. I really want everything to work out back home but it seems that everything is getting in the way.
I only have 5 weeks left with this baby in my belly and then she will be out! That time is coming fast and I'm getting more and more nervous about it as the days go by for more reasons than one.
I will turn this into a positive post though. I will be packing the truck to Rhode Island two weeks from tomorrow. Time, though its starting to slow, has been moving at a decent speed. My last baby appointment here is on the 16th and I have one in Rhode Island on the 20th at my new doctors office... If I still need a doctor at that point lol. I can't wait to get back into exercising! I have some goals that I want to accomplish. I also submitted my last bit of paperwork yesterday for school! I still have yet to hear back from my advisor though.
Nov 2- see, I couldn't even post this yesterday. What a genius. I did something really bad yesterday. I bought Halloween candy. My body is going to hate me but it's not every day that I eat this stuff. I feel guilty though! I had a few pieces and didn't want anymore at all. That's a good sign :) We took some maternity photos yesterday (I won a free mini session!) and we have more on Sunday to take (with a friend). I actually bought my first and only maternity top. It is a coral sweater from Old Navy. I will probably wear it on Sunday with my brown belt. Hoping I can still wear it after the baby comes so it still has purpose lol. When I went to the doctor's office the other day for my 34 week check up, my midwife noticed that I can still wear my jeans and button them. I'm still carrying pretty high though, which is probably the only reason why. Today I have the urge to play the Sims haha. I should download it. I straightened my hair for the maternity photos yesterday and I cannot believe how long my hair is getting. I have to get a good amount of it trimmed but I wish I could just keep it long. I wonder, are there any natural things that you can do to help your hair grow? Ryan had an appointment yesterday with a recruiter. He is thinking about doing reserves. I'm fine with it I guess. I just don't want him to deploy again - mostly because of the baby. They said if he re-enlists for the 2 years, his contract will end as soon as he is done with that and he won't have to be put on IRR like he will be for the next 4 years and that he is guaranteed no deployment. I wonder how it would go for his 2 week training with him going to school. Its in the summer but the program that he is in is a 3 year program with barely any breaks at all. He has really big goals for himself and I really want to see him (and help if he wants!) achieve them. I love that man. :)
Not going to lie things are starting to make me nervous. The house hasn't sold yet and it probably won't, so we're forced to find someone to rent within the next two weeks. We are going to be asking somewhere between 925-975 but that is out of a lot of people's budgets. We have no choice though, property managers I'm getting worried that we really might not be able to leave this place or worse... Have to come back. I really want everything to work out back home but it seems that everything is getting in the way.
I only have 5 weeks left with this baby in my belly and then she will be out! That time is coming fast and I'm getting more and more nervous about it as the days go by for more reasons than one.
I will turn this into a positive post though. I will be packing the truck to Rhode Island two weeks from tomorrow. Time, though its starting to slow, has been moving at a decent speed. My last baby appointment here is on the 16th and I have one in Rhode Island on the 20th at my new doctors office... If I still need a doctor at that point lol. I can't wait to get back into exercising! I have some goals that I want to accomplish. I also submitted my last bit of paperwork yesterday for school! I still have yet to hear back from my advisor though.
Nov 2- see, I couldn't even post this yesterday. What a genius. I did something really bad yesterday. I bought Halloween candy. My body is going to hate me but it's not every day that I eat this stuff. I feel guilty though! I had a few pieces and didn't want anymore at all. That's a good sign :) We took some maternity photos yesterday (I won a free mini session!) and we have more on Sunday to take (with a friend). I actually bought my first and only maternity top. It is a coral sweater from Old Navy. I will probably wear it on Sunday with my brown belt. Hoping I can still wear it after the baby comes so it still has purpose lol. When I went to the doctor's office the other day for my 34 week check up, my midwife noticed that I can still wear my jeans and button them. I'm still carrying pretty high though, which is probably the only reason why. Today I have the urge to play the Sims haha. I should download it. I straightened my hair for the maternity photos yesterday and I cannot believe how long my hair is getting. I have to get a good amount of it trimmed but I wish I could just keep it long. I wonder, are there any natural things that you can do to help your hair grow? Ryan had an appointment yesterday with a recruiter. He is thinking about doing reserves. I'm fine with it I guess. I just don't want him to deploy again - mostly because of the baby. They said if he re-enlists for the 2 years, his contract will end as soon as he is done with that and he won't have to be put on IRR like he will be for the next 4 years and that he is guaranteed no deployment. I wonder how it would go for his 2 week training with him going to school. Its in the summer but the program that he is in is a 3 year program with barely any breaks at all. He has really big goals for himself and I really want to see him (and help if he wants!) achieve them. I love that man. :)
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Unless someone like you cares a whole lot, it's not going to get better.. it's not.
I've been slacking so bad lately with the blogging thing. I have been planning on posting this for a while but just haven't gotten around to it. Packing up the house and trying to get all the baby stuff cleaned and settled in case she comes early has kept me busy. I can't believe I will be 33 weeks on Saturday! My friend just had her baby a couple of days ago and she was only 33 weeks, so that really put things into perspective to me. She can come anytime! I want her to cook a little longer though. Kayla and baby Aaliyah are in my thoughts. I can't imagine having to leave my little peanut in the NICU to go home. But even though she is small (3 lbs 8oz at birth!), she is healthy and a beautiful little baby. Makes me anxious to see my little one :)
On the subject about babies, I've been asked to post about good products that are all natural and chemical free. One of the best and most amazing things that I have been wanting to talk about - besides breast milk, chia, and hemp seeds - is COCONUT OIL. Just a pretty quick outline of its benefits because there is SO many: hair care, skin care, stress relief, maintaining cholesterol levels, weight loss, increased immunity, proper digestion and metabolism, relief from kidney problems, heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV and cancer, dental care, and bone strength. Here is a good link (where I found the above information) that goes into more detail of the benefits of coconut oil. R and I will be buying a giant container of it. We are no longer using vegetable, safflower, and definitely not canola oil (GMO central!) so that really just leaves us with olive oil, which isn't good to cook with. Guess what is?! COCONUT OIL because it can withstand high heat. Granted, I don't personally like coconut...but I'm gonna have to get used to it because the benefits are amazing. We won't be using butter anymore either (or as rarely as possible...been looking into goat butter).
Coconut oil benefits for babies: cures thrush, can be used as lotion and works amazing for the skin, and is also really good at healing diaper rash! It also helps boost the immune system. Here is another link expanding on coconut oil. Please do your research on it! It is important that you get an *UNREFINED, organic (if possible), virgin coconut oil.* Extra virgin or not, it doesn't matter because it is not a regulated term when it comes to coconut oil like it is when it comes to olive oil. Here is some information about those terms :)
Anyway, about baby. First, we will start with what babies eat. The best thing you can possibly give your newborn child is breast milk. I understand that it is not always possible, but if you can do it, DO IT! Breast milk is amazing and definitely earns the nickname "liquid gold." It is an immune system booster, provides everything babies need, and even cures ear infections along with diaper rash! Why is it better than formula? I support any decision a parent makes, as long as it is an educated one. I will not say you are a bad parent if you want to feed your child formula or McDonalds, just be aware. Education is very important. :) Earth's Best and these brands are a good starting place for formulas. The ones listed are not genetically modified. Next thing about babies, diapers. Cloth diapering has so many benefits: cheaper(!) than disposables - even with the cost of laundry and everything else included, less chance of rash, and earlier potty training! You can also re-sell those diapers, sometimes for almost the same price that you have paid for them which is awesome! Plus, they are adorable. Now not everyone has the "luxury" to cloth diaper full time, or even part time. That doesn't mean that you have to put chemical-ridden disposables on your baby's bum! Seventh Generation has diapers that are chemical free. Earth's Best is also good for that too. And they are bio-degradable. :) Just look into what you are putting against your little ones reproductive organs! Some studies have linked certain disposables with infertility and even asthma. Baby wash: Burt's Bees is good, though it is only 99.3% "Natural" - which isn't a regulated term - and isn't GMO free or organic. It doesn't contain pthalates, sulfates, petrochemicals, parabens, and is hypoallergenic. I think if we don't end up making our own soap, we are going to go with Dr. Bronner's baby soap. Check out the ingredient list!! and for 32 oz. $17 isn't that bad considering for baby you only need a tiny bit! Babies do not need shampoo but you could use this as a shampoo I assume. Baby lotion: coconut oil hands down - More benefits here!! I've also heard a lot of good things about Earth, Mama, Angel Baby (Amazon) for lotions and body washes. Check out their website here. Once little M gets here I'm sure I will be able to post more information but being baby-less for a bit longer I can't really post reviews. If you know anything about these products or can recommend any, let me know! I love learning :) EMAB is what we are using to make up our birth plan, once I can figure out how to get my printer to work again. LOL. Baby oils, I would probably go with coconut oil (again! I swear everyone loves it - plus it's natural and amazing) or extra virgin olive oil (I have personally used it when I used to go tanning. After showering and shaving instead of lotion). It's not fragrant but really keeps your skin so soft...my legs LOVED it. Or of course you can make your own. This weekend R and I are going to start doing some research on cleaning supplies - ready made and ones that we can make ourselves - so hopefully I will have a post about that. Maybe before the weekend either tonight or tomorrow I will post about the seeds I want to talk about.
*Please remember I am not knocking anyone's parenting style. Everyone naturally loves their babies and wants the best for them. I am just trying to inform people to make the best, educated decisions they can. I encourage you to do your own research! And remember, you have to dig for this stuff. Check out the ingredients on things, if you don't know what it is, for example: propylene glycol. What IS that?! A quick google search will show you. It is an oil dispersant! So why is it in Mio and our foods???? Check out studies by the company... then check out studies by other companies that have absolutely NOTHING to gain from it. Get educated, and you will see a lot of things are not really what they seem to be.*
FEEDBACK IS ENCOURAGED. DON'T BE A STRANGER :)
On the subject about babies, I've been asked to post about good products that are all natural and chemical free. One of the best and most amazing things that I have been wanting to talk about - besides breast milk, chia, and hemp seeds - is COCONUT OIL. Just a pretty quick outline of its benefits because there is SO many: hair care, skin care, stress relief, maintaining cholesterol levels, weight loss, increased immunity, proper digestion and metabolism, relief from kidney problems, heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV and cancer, dental care, and bone strength. Here is a good link (where I found the above information) that goes into more detail of the benefits of coconut oil. R and I will be buying a giant container of it. We are no longer using vegetable, safflower, and definitely not canola oil (GMO central!) so that really just leaves us with olive oil, which isn't good to cook with. Guess what is?! COCONUT OIL because it can withstand high heat. Granted, I don't personally like coconut...but I'm gonna have to get used to it because the benefits are amazing. We won't be using butter anymore either (or as rarely as possible...been looking into goat butter).
Coconut oil benefits for babies: cures thrush, can be used as lotion and works amazing for the skin, and is also really good at healing diaper rash! It also helps boost the immune system. Here is another link expanding on coconut oil. Please do your research on it! It is important that you get an *UNREFINED, organic (if possible), virgin coconut oil.* Extra virgin or not, it doesn't matter because it is not a regulated term when it comes to coconut oil like it is when it comes to olive oil. Here is some information about those terms :)
Anyway, about baby. First, we will start with what babies eat. The best thing you can possibly give your newborn child is breast milk. I understand that it is not always possible, but if you can do it, DO IT! Breast milk is amazing and definitely earns the nickname "liquid gold." It is an immune system booster, provides everything babies need, and even cures ear infections along with diaper rash! Why is it better than formula? I support any decision a parent makes, as long as it is an educated one. I will not say you are a bad parent if you want to feed your child formula or McDonalds, just be aware. Education is very important. :) Earth's Best and these brands are a good starting place for formulas. The ones listed are not genetically modified. Next thing about babies, diapers. Cloth diapering has so many benefits: cheaper(!) than disposables - even with the cost of laundry and everything else included, less chance of rash, and earlier potty training! You can also re-sell those diapers, sometimes for almost the same price that you have paid for them which is awesome! Plus, they are adorable. Now not everyone has the "luxury" to cloth diaper full time, or even part time. That doesn't mean that you have to put chemical-ridden disposables on your baby's bum! Seventh Generation has diapers that are chemical free. Earth's Best is also good for that too. And they are bio-degradable. :) Just look into what you are putting against your little ones reproductive organs! Some studies have linked certain disposables with infertility and even asthma. Baby wash: Burt's Bees is good, though it is only 99.3% "Natural" - which isn't a regulated term - and isn't GMO free or organic. It doesn't contain pthalates, sulfates, petrochemicals, parabens, and is hypoallergenic. I think if we don't end up making our own soap, we are going to go with Dr. Bronner's baby soap. Check out the ingredient list!! and for 32 oz. $17 isn't that bad considering for baby you only need a tiny bit! Babies do not need shampoo but you could use this as a shampoo I assume. Baby lotion: coconut oil hands down - More benefits here!! I've also heard a lot of good things about Earth, Mama, Angel Baby (Amazon) for lotions and body washes. Check out their website here. Once little M gets here I'm sure I will be able to post more information but being baby-less for a bit longer I can't really post reviews. If you know anything about these products or can recommend any, let me know! I love learning :) EMAB is what we are using to make up our birth plan, once I can figure out how to get my printer to work again. LOL. Baby oils, I would probably go with coconut oil (again! I swear everyone loves it - plus it's natural and amazing) or extra virgin olive oil (I have personally used it when I used to go tanning. After showering and shaving instead of lotion). It's not fragrant but really keeps your skin so soft...my legs LOVED it. Or of course you can make your own. This weekend R and I are going to start doing some research on cleaning supplies - ready made and ones that we can make ourselves - so hopefully I will have a post about that. Maybe before the weekend either tonight or tomorrow I will post about the seeds I want to talk about.
*Please remember I am not knocking anyone's parenting style. Everyone naturally loves their babies and wants the best for them. I am just trying to inform people to make the best, educated decisions they can. I encourage you to do your own research! And remember, you have to dig for this stuff. Check out the ingredients on things, if you don't know what it is, for example: propylene glycol. What IS that?! A quick google search will show you. It is an oil dispersant! So why is it in Mio and our foods???? Check out studies by the company... then check out studies by other companies that have absolutely NOTHING to gain from it. Get educated, and you will see a lot of things are not really what they seem to be.*
FEEDBACK IS ENCOURAGED. DON'T BE A STRANGER :)
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Time...
10/5 It's been a little while. Can't figure out where the time is going every day. We have been doing little things here and there to prepare for the baby and for moving. Maybe it wasn't the best time for me to start a blog seeing as I can't get to it every day! I'm going to try to make an honest effort from now on though. I feel like I do too much research into things so I really just don't have time to post about them. I wake up doing research and go to bed doing research. About food, GMOs, politics... Which reminds me! Last night was the presidential debate. I will keep my opinions to myself - don't want to lose any readers because of my beliefs... but I would really like to ask each candidate what they feed their families. I can pretty much guess what their responses would be but would like to see their reasoning behind it. One of the biggest things I am worried about is my right as an American to choose the type of healthcare I receive being taken away. We are planning on holistic care and alternative medicine for ourselves and our baby. It will take some getting used to but we truly believe this is what is best for us.
10/7:
Hey! I have a lot of things to go over and talk about today but I may just wait for most of it because I don't think I will have time to write before the Patriots game starts in a half hour. We have watched the Gerson Miracle on Netflix, and let me tell you! R talked to his dad today about having his uncle try it. He has stage 4 pancreatic cancer. I really hope he wants to try it! I truly believe it will help, at least a little bit. If not, at least he tried! I have gone through all of our bathroom cabinets and I have tons of things that we are getting rid of that have chemicals in them. We read something last night from Dr. Mercola:
DID YOU KNOW...
that nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) can be found in your laundry detergent and can end up on your clothes and skin? NPEs are endocrine disruptors and estrogen mimickers that can lead to hormonal imbalances and even cancer.
Interesting, right? People think I'm crazy for doing all of these things... but really, the studies don't lie. Instead of using Dreft for baby M we are going to be finding something better that doesn't have all the extra chemicals too. Here is a link for things that YOU can do: Link
We have discovered a Dr. Palevsky because of one of Dr. Mercola's videos that were posted of him being interviewed. Awesome video. Check it out here.
I plan on watching these two videos later GMO 1 and GMO 2
I would really enjoy some feedback people! I've had 47 views and 0 comments. At least just let me know who you are and why you're stopping by :)
The Organic Consumers Association is supposed to try to get Michelle Obama to have her husband touch on GMOs at the next debate. Now...we will see if that happens. If it does, you can bet that's going to open a whole new can of worms for both candidates. I really hope someone says something about them!
We went to Bark in the Park with Bear yesterday. There were holistic dog care booths and everything. It was awesome! Definitely finding him a holistic vet for when we move.
I really hope my blog inspires people to make changes in the way they take care of themselves. I try to educate as many people as I can about these things. R and I want to become more active in community education about these types of things. Maybe once or twice a month we can get a room in the public library and invite people to learn about things that are just not good for them. We don't want to push our ideas on anyone but we really want to find people that are willing to learn and make educated decisions for themselves and their families. We really want to make a difference but we need people willing to help us do that. Thoughts?
10/7:
Hey! I have a lot of things to go over and talk about today but I may just wait for most of it because I don't think I will have time to write before the Patriots game starts in a half hour. We have watched the Gerson Miracle on Netflix, and let me tell you! R talked to his dad today about having his uncle try it. He has stage 4 pancreatic cancer. I really hope he wants to try it! I truly believe it will help, at least a little bit. If not, at least he tried! I have gone through all of our bathroom cabinets and I have tons of things that we are getting rid of that have chemicals in them. We read something last night from Dr. Mercola:
DID YOU KNOW...
that nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) can be found in your laundry detergent and can end up on your clothes and skin? NPEs are endocrine disruptors and estrogen mimickers that can lead to hormonal imbalances and even cancer.
Interesting, right? People think I'm crazy for doing all of these things... but really, the studies don't lie. Instead of using Dreft for baby M we are going to be finding something better that doesn't have all the extra chemicals too. Here is a link for things that YOU can do: Link
We have discovered a Dr. Palevsky because of one of Dr. Mercola's videos that were posted of him being interviewed. Awesome video. Check it out here.
I plan on watching these two videos later GMO 1 and GMO 2
I would really enjoy some feedback people! I've had 47 views and 0 comments. At least just let me know who you are and why you're stopping by :)
The Organic Consumers Association is supposed to try to get Michelle Obama to have her husband touch on GMOs at the next debate. Now...we will see if that happens. If it does, you can bet that's going to open a whole new can of worms for both candidates. I really hope someone says something about them!
We went to Bark in the Park with Bear yesterday. There were holistic dog care booths and everything. It was awesome! Definitely finding him a holistic vet for when we move.
I really hope my blog inspires people to make changes in the way they take care of themselves. I try to educate as many people as I can about these things. R and I want to become more active in community education about these types of things. Maybe once or twice a month we can get a room in the public library and invite people to learn about things that are just not good for them. We don't want to push our ideas on anyone but we really want to find people that are willing to learn and make educated decisions for themselves and their families. We really want to make a difference but we need people willing to help us do that. Thoughts?
Monday, September 24, 2012
Fall is here!
9/18/2012
Living in Tennessee is pretty sickening in the summer. It's hot and being from New England, my body is just not made for that day in and day out. Luckily we have been fortunate enough to finally get some cool weather! It's almost October now, so it's been about 6 months of constant, life-sucking heat. I am super excited to say that it is only 68° outside and the highest we will be seeing is the low 80's. After months of 100° plus weather, it's a relief.
9/24/2012
It's been a while since I've written - already getting off on a bad foot! But after reading Lisha Lou's blog, found here: http://lishalou123.blogspot.com/ I have decided to completely purge my house of all the chemicals that we use every day. We have been eating healthy for a while now and I truly believe that's the only reason we got pregnant. It took us about 3 months of healthy eating and living - going mostly organic and raw. That's all it took. Whoever says you can't undo what you have already done to your body is really mistaken. It just takes a little time. We have decided to take the extra step to get rid of the cleaning supplies and bath products that I just can't seem to get rid of because I hate seeing money go down the drain. Literally.
We try hard as a young couple (I'm 20, R is 23) to do the things we can to educate ourselves and others on things such as GMOs/GE foods and why it is important to eat organic or at the very least conventional. We do tons of research every single day to strengthen our knowledge on these things.
We actually went up to Whole Foods in Nashville a month or so ago and the place is amazing. I've been in a Whole Foods before but after learning so much I love to see so many people that care. We spent literally an entire day there. It's perfect for us! We went to replace all of our bath products with natural and chemical- free things (still can't get myself to get rid of the things I already have, but I think since I am moving that it is time). This Saturday, the 29th, they are actually hosting a "baby shower" and breastfeeding class. I cannot wait to go! Will definitely post a few photos and more details on that.
I've been looking at juicing after the baby gets here but am still unsure if I am comfortable with 100% juicing just because of the things that my body has been exposed to. I am worried about the toxins I already have leeching into my milk and harming the baby. I may just end up supplementing. Joe Cross is an awesome man to look to for those things. Find him on Facebook! You won't regret it.
Another person I look to for a lot of information - HONEST INFORMATION - is Dr. Joseph Mercola. I get e-mails from him every day and am constantly checking up on his Facebook. Education is really important. I feel like it's one of the most useful tools we have in helping keep ourselves alive.
I have another important topic that since being pregnant, R and I have talked about on a regular basis. Immunization. Today we went to WIC to our appointment and the group session was asked why we planned on breastfeeding or why we didn't want to breastfeed. Everyone touched on something different...especially us. The most common reasons were "it's better for the baby", "formula doesn't have as many nutrients: referring to the chart they have listing everything in breast milk and everything in formula", "it's easier for them to go to the bathroom", etc. As this is a very sensitive subject with a lot of people, probably because they aren't too educated on the topic, I decided to give one of our biggest, honest reasons why we have decided to breastfeed instead of formula feed (after tapping R on the leg, smirking, and saying, "watch the reactions...") : because we were not immunizing our child. There were about 10 of us in the room. About 7 of the people gave us a disgusted look like we are going to neglect our child, and the other three weren't phased by it. One of those three happened to be the instructor. She actually brought it up saying that the antibodies we provide our child actually protect the baby from everything while we are breastfeeding. That seemed to change a few people's views and they didn't seem to care anymore. A lot of times the people I speak with are scared of the unknown. People naturally listen to their doctors, pediatricians, and trust they give them the best advice. But everyone is responsible for themselves and their children. I am not against formula feeding or immunizing your child at all. The thing is, is I wish people would get more educated about it. I understand not everyone can breastfeed. It just doesn't work out that way for some people and that's fine. Everyone has a different parenting style. But don't knock me for mine is all I'm saying. I actually didn't want to tell people that we weren't immunizing M at first. Not because I'm ashamed (why would I choose to do that if I was ashamed of it?) but because I didn't want people telling their children they couldn't hang out with her because of that. That's probably one of the things that I find the most ridiculous about people that choose to immunize versus those that don't. Most believe that the child is like the devil. Now, think about it for a minute. You chose to immunize. If that is what you believe is the "best thing to do" so your child doesn't contract any viruses, diseases, etc. then your child will already be immune to those things no matter if my child gets it or not! Anyway, I'm sure I'll post things about why vaccinating is just not for our family. If you don't agree, don't read. That goes for everything else I touch upon. No hurt feelings and I am open to what everyone has to say about it. Just please, please do your research. If you are interested in these types of things I have a group open on Facebook that my husband and I post in on a regular basis about things going on health wise, check it out. It's called the Information Booth and you can find it here.
Happy Fall! :)
Living in Tennessee is pretty sickening in the summer. It's hot and being from New England, my body is just not made for that day in and day out. Luckily we have been fortunate enough to finally get some cool weather! It's almost October now, so it's been about 6 months of constant, life-sucking heat. I am super excited to say that it is only 68° outside and the highest we will be seeing is the low 80's. After months of 100° plus weather, it's a relief.
9/24/2012
It's been a while since I've written - already getting off on a bad foot! But after reading Lisha Lou's blog, found here: http://lishalou123.blogspot.com/ I have decided to completely purge my house of all the chemicals that we use every day. We have been eating healthy for a while now and I truly believe that's the only reason we got pregnant. It took us about 3 months of healthy eating and living - going mostly organic and raw. That's all it took. Whoever says you can't undo what you have already done to your body is really mistaken. It just takes a little time. We have decided to take the extra step to get rid of the cleaning supplies and bath products that I just can't seem to get rid of because I hate seeing money go down the drain. Literally.
We try hard as a young couple (I'm 20, R is 23) to do the things we can to educate ourselves and others on things such as GMOs/GE foods and why it is important to eat organic or at the very least conventional. We do tons of research every single day to strengthen our knowledge on these things.
We actually went up to Whole Foods in Nashville a month or so ago and the place is amazing. I've been in a Whole Foods before but after learning so much I love to see so many people that care. We spent literally an entire day there. It's perfect for us! We went to replace all of our bath products with natural and chemical- free things (still can't get myself to get rid of the things I already have, but I think since I am moving that it is time). This Saturday, the 29th, they are actually hosting a "baby shower" and breastfeeding class. I cannot wait to go! Will definitely post a few photos and more details on that.
I've been looking at juicing after the baby gets here but am still unsure if I am comfortable with 100% juicing just because of the things that my body has been exposed to. I am worried about the toxins I already have leeching into my milk and harming the baby. I may just end up supplementing. Joe Cross is an awesome man to look to for those things. Find him on Facebook! You won't regret it.
Another person I look to for a lot of information - HONEST INFORMATION - is Dr. Joseph Mercola. I get e-mails from him every day and am constantly checking up on his Facebook. Education is really important. I feel like it's one of the most useful tools we have in helping keep ourselves alive.
I have another important topic that since being pregnant, R and I have talked about on a regular basis. Immunization. Today we went to WIC to our appointment and the group session was asked why we planned on breastfeeding or why we didn't want to breastfeed. Everyone touched on something different...especially us. The most common reasons were "it's better for the baby", "formula doesn't have as many nutrients: referring to the chart they have listing everything in breast milk and everything in formula", "it's easier for them to go to the bathroom", etc. As this is a very sensitive subject with a lot of people, probably because they aren't too educated on the topic, I decided to give one of our biggest, honest reasons why we have decided to breastfeed instead of formula feed (after tapping R on the leg, smirking, and saying, "watch the reactions...") : because we were not immunizing our child. There were about 10 of us in the room. About 7 of the people gave us a disgusted look like we are going to neglect our child, and the other three weren't phased by it. One of those three happened to be the instructor. She actually brought it up saying that the antibodies we provide our child actually protect the baby from everything while we are breastfeeding. That seemed to change a few people's views and they didn't seem to care anymore. A lot of times the people I speak with are scared of the unknown. People naturally listen to their doctors, pediatricians, and trust they give them the best advice. But everyone is responsible for themselves and their children. I am not against formula feeding or immunizing your child at all. The thing is, is I wish people would get more educated about it. I understand not everyone can breastfeed. It just doesn't work out that way for some people and that's fine. Everyone has a different parenting style. But don't knock me for mine is all I'm saying. I actually didn't want to tell people that we weren't immunizing M at first. Not because I'm ashamed (why would I choose to do that if I was ashamed of it?) but because I didn't want people telling their children they couldn't hang out with her because of that. That's probably one of the things that I find the most ridiculous about people that choose to immunize versus those that don't. Most believe that the child is like the devil. Now, think about it for a minute. You chose to immunize. If that is what you believe is the "best thing to do" so your child doesn't contract any viruses, diseases, etc. then your child will already be immune to those things no matter if my child gets it or not! Anyway, I'm sure I'll post things about why vaccinating is just not for our family. If you don't agree, don't read. That goes for everything else I touch upon. No hurt feelings and I am open to what everyone has to say about it. Just please, please do your research. If you are interested in these types of things I have a group open on Facebook that my husband and I post in on a regular basis about things going on health wise, check it out. It's called the Information Booth and you can find it here.
Happy Fall! :)
Monday, September 17, 2012
Months of Misery
I am 28 weeks and 2 days pregnant. The way I feel right now isn't the way I felt a few hours ago. A few hours ago I was bored but pretty content for the most part. Right now, I feel like trash. I'm tired, sore, and huge. I know it's only going to get worse so that just adds to my misery. I feel unattractive, unappreciated, and most of all, uncomfortable. I hate feeling like this. Don't get me wrong, I know pregnancy is supposed to be beautiful and an amazing feeling. It is a privilege. And that's true. But you can't help the way you feel sometimes, especially if you are 4'11" with a baby growing inside of you that is probably already half of your height. Not to mention the pelvic bone separating, acid reflux, a broken nose, and the stress pimple that looks like herpes on your top lip coming out. I am miserable. I am going to a baby shower for 100 Army wives in two days and I will be the one with acne and a broken, bruised nose. I do NOT feel attractive. Its especially disappointing when not even an hour ago shaving my legs I realized that I just can't do it anymore. My belly is too big. Too big. As a mom to be in my very early 20s, I am having a pretty big issue with my weight. I feel that if I was taller I wouldn't be so upset over it because it would have more area to distribute over. Unfortunately I am not one of the lucky ones with long, sexy legs! Guess I gotta just deal with it and drive on.
Anyway, this blog isn't supposed to be about me being miserable. It is supposed to be about R and I making educated, informed decisions for our family and new little girl expected to arrive in December. I cannot wait until M is here, though I am feeling pretty stressed out about it all lately. I am scared to be a mom. I don't really know if I'm ready for it. I guess I have to be though, and I have to be FAST. Within the next couple of weeks, less than 9 to be exact, R and I are uprooting ourselves yet again. He is getting out of the Army and we are headed back to New England forever. We are currently stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. We have made a home for ourselves here - with two crazy cats and a hyper dog - who all happen to pick up on the changing of "mom". The way that my animals have been acting has been an adjustment for me in itself. Guess I better get used to it! We will be moving about 20 hours away back to our hometown in little Rhode Island when I am 37 weeks, which just happen to be the week of Thanksgiving.
R and I are planning on cloth diapering. We will be co-sleeping, baby-wearing, EBF, and all organic when the baby comes. I love that we share the same taste when it comes to life decisions. We truly were made for each other. We plan on an all-natural childbirth without the use of any drugs, for me or for baby M. We are refusing any and all vaccinations, even the eye goop! Feel free to follow us on the journey to... "CRUNCHY" (Rs new favorite word and the reason that the blog is called the Granola Trail (; )
Anyway, this blog isn't supposed to be about me being miserable. It is supposed to be about R and I making educated, informed decisions for our family and new little girl expected to arrive in December. I cannot wait until M is here, though I am feeling pretty stressed out about it all lately. I am scared to be a mom. I don't really know if I'm ready for it. I guess I have to be though, and I have to be FAST. Within the next couple of weeks, less than 9 to be exact, R and I are uprooting ourselves yet again. He is getting out of the Army and we are headed back to New England forever. We are currently stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. We have made a home for ourselves here - with two crazy cats and a hyper dog - who all happen to pick up on the changing of "mom". The way that my animals have been acting has been an adjustment for me in itself. Guess I better get used to it! We will be moving about 20 hours away back to our hometown in little Rhode Island when I am 37 weeks, which just happen to be the week of Thanksgiving.
R and I are planning on cloth diapering. We will be co-sleeping, baby-wearing, EBF, and all organic when the baby comes. I love that we share the same taste when it comes to life decisions. We truly were made for each other. We plan on an all-natural childbirth without the use of any drugs, for me or for baby M. We are refusing any and all vaccinations, even the eye goop! Feel free to follow us on the journey to... "CRUNCHY" (Rs new favorite word and the reason that the blog is called the Granola Trail (; )
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