The newborn phase is such a blur in my mind. The intense growth (mine and baby’s), sleepless nights, either too many visitors or sad isolation. I’m so happy that I have these photos to remember what hard work we were doing together. We were getting to know this world. Getting to know this new life.
Read MoreI have heard that children mirror their parents. But temper tantrums? Where do they come from? Steven helps me to reflect on my own ability to be patient.
Read More"I truly did not feel anything - even though the monitor showed the contractions were at 75-90% intensity. The only way I knew I was having a contraction was the skin of my belly got tighter and harder (more than it already was at it's maxed out, 9 months state)." Amy tells us the story of Luke's birth in Virginia, USA.
Read MoreIt's true, birth often takes unexpected turns. But having a positive, calm, and empowering birth experience is possible. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare to bring your baby into the world. Special thanks to my friend Teresa and Lauren Allmond Photography for the beautiful photos.
Read MoreI thought that by having a "girls day," I could let her know that I am still the mother that fell in love with her when she was a baby. That I love her just as much as I love Steven. I wanted to "fix" things. And stop the whining.
Read MoreAs I try to find a balance between housekeeping and giving my children the freedom that they crave to learn and grow, the learning and the growing almost always seem to win out. As a result, I have a very messy house and very independent learners.
Read MoreI have this little growing human who needs constant loving care. It's quite a daunting task being someone's everything. Sometimes I don't feel up for the responsibility.
Luckily, though, just like the fairy godmother gave Cinderella her carriage and dress, someone gave me breastmilk. I can magically make a nightmare melt into peaceful slumber. I can feel my baby's body go from tense to relaxed in a matter of seconds. I am so grateful for this power. This power is more than me. This power is what makes me believe in the divine.
Read MoreGiving birth and raising children on the Italian riviera has been wonderful at times, depressing at times, and always surprising. 10 things that I did not see coming are..
Read MoreFinally, the birthing tub. That water was sent from God. Embracing me with its warmth. Angels whispered to me that I could do this. Hallelujah. I relaxed. My husband put a cool wet handkerchief on my forehead. I felt his strong presence. I knew my little girl was on her way.
Read MoreYa'll. This song. The beautiful melody and simple guitar really let the words jump out and hit your heart. People say it is a perfect first dance song at a wedding. I agree. It's also a perfect first lullaby for a new baby and momma.
I wanna love you, forever I do.
I wanna spend all of my days with you.
I'll carry your burdens and be the wind at your back.
I wanna spend my forever - forever like that.Read More
When I left the hospital after giving birth to my first baby, a doctor told me to make sure that the baby does not sleep in my bed with me. "Okay," I thought. We had a bassinet next to our bed. I'm sure she'll be cool with that. I had no idea about the heated cosleeping debate that exists all over the world amongst mothers, babies, dads, and healthcare professionals. I was about to be thrown into the worry or not to worry frenzy.
Read MoreOur brains are rewired during childbirth and postpartum months. If it seems like you are seeing the world through a different colored lens after giving birth, don't worry, you are, and you are not alone.
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