Too Much STUFF

There's some exciting things happening for Papa Bear, Baby Bear and me. I can't discuss the details yet, but I will say we have been taking inventory of our life a lot lately. And we have noticed that we have a LOT of STUFF. I don't know how we managed to take what used to fit in a one-bedroom apartment and fill a three-bedroom house. IN LESS THAN A YEAR. But here we are, with more stuff than we could ever need. So, bit by bit, room by room (and let's be honest - "organizer" bin by "organizer" bin) we are on a quest to sell, trade, and donate most of our possessions. 

This quest got me thinking - what's up with all this stuff, and how did we fall "victim" to such consumerism is such a short amount of time? Well, we NEEDED it, DUH. Psh. But seriously, I truly think we should all take inventory of how we contribute to the cycle of STUFF, and how it's impacting our world.

Here's a GREAT (short) film about STUFF: 

BOOK: The Womanly Art of Breadtfeeding

Thank the stars I read this book! I think it is a HUGE reason why Baby Bear and I have had a successful breastfeeding relationship. Now, I do have to put out there that I was lucky I had a good supply and she had a pretty good latch from the start. But it wasn't perfect. And this book definitely helped me create an envirornment where we could work on perfecting it: from delaying newborn procedures (until after nursing was established) to testing out different nursing holds until we both were comfortable. 

I really recommend this book to any and every expectant mama, especially ones who may not have a lot of support for breastfeeding. It guides mamas through everything from latching to pumping to weaning. It also offers encouragement, knowledge, and support for struggles (because despite what some might think, it's not always easy, and doesn't always come "naturally") and situations that could make nursing difficult (like having a premie or multiples!).  

If you choose not to breastfeed, that's fine. It is not for every mama or every baby. But if you think it's because you can't, I really recommend taking a peak at this book before you rule it out. AND get yourself to a La Leche League meeting! (I promise it's not just for hippies who like to nurse their 6-year-olds!)

Pick it up on amazon: The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding

BOOK: Birthing From Within

I loved reading this book while I was pregnant! Through various activities, expectant parents are encouraged to explore the emotional, psychological, and spiritual side of pregnancy, birth, and parenting. (I should note that I didn't do most of the writing exercises, but it was still a great read. And, the author points out that not every method is for every person, so I suppose I'm fine!)

The author, England, is a registered nurse and certified nurse midwife who teaches birthing classes. This book outlines her holistic approach, research to support her views, and various methods she uses with expectant parents. 

This book really helped me feel empowered throughout my pregnancy and going into childbirth. I liked that it presented birthing as a right of passage - and something I could look forward to rather than fear. England also offers techniques to help with labor pain, advice for working with your health care provider, and ways partners can - and should - be involved in the process. 

Pick it up on amazon: Birthing from Within