Thursday, June 13, 2013
Quick update =)
Emmalee is 6 months old! I can't even comprehend how its been 6 whole months since I brought my angel into the world.
She has her 6 month appointment tomorrow morning, but I estimate she's around 22 lbs. She is heavvyyy. My arm gets tired if I carry her from the back of the house to the front. Thank goodness for babywearing! I went totally nerdy and had a half birthday party for her. It was just the immediate family, but I baked us a cake and Emmalee got her own very cake also! I'm amazed at how well it turned out. If it had been sweeter, its something I'd actually eat! I posted the recipe here.
I've furthered my "crunchy" life style. I'm pretty surprised at the weirdo I've become, actually. It just made no sense for me to work so hard to reduce the chemicals in Emmalee's life, if I was still going to expose her to the chemicals in mine! Once I got started with one natural substitute for a daily item (deodorant, toothpaste) it was pretty easy for everything else in my life to just follow suit. Read my crunchy update here.
I promise to get back into the swing of things! I have about 15 draft posts I've written over the last two months, that just never got posted because I hit a "wall" and couldn't make anything sound good!
Never fear, I'm back ;)
Emmalee's Breastmilk Birthday Cake
I had a half birthday party for my daughter. I know, super lame.
I am doing Baby Led Weaning (BLW) with Emmalee, so she hasn't really started "eating" food, she kinda just plays with it. She also has not had any sort of grains, because I didn't start with rice cereal.
I wanted Em to have a cake to celebrate, but I didn't want her eating sugar or gluten. I searched for some recipes and I found one which I thought was a pretty good starting point. Really, I'm surprised this recipe even turned out at all, because I tweaked it a lot and my measurements are slightly ridiculous. I halved the original recipe, which is why the measurements are strange.
2 T plus 2 tsp breast milk
1/4 tsp ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar)
1/2 tsp honey
A little less than 1/4 cup applesauce (wonky, I know. Guesstimate)
3/4 tsp vanilla
1 cup, plus 2 T, plus 2 tsp almond flour
A little more than 1/4 a tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/8 tsp salt.
Preheat oven to 325. Line four spaces in a muffin tin (or, be a procrastinator like I am and be forced to grease the tin instead)
In a mixing bowl, combine the ACV and breast milk until it curdles. (Mine never curdled, but I waited until I could see a physical reaction and moved forward with the recipe) Mix in honey, applesauce, and vanilla. Slowly add in flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cupcake comes out clean. (I'd make sure to watch your cakes closely).
That's it! I didn't frost them, because my 6 month old doesn't need frosting! To me, it tasted more like a biscuit but she loved them! Of course, you can always add more sweetener if you are adapting this for an older child. If you do add more, I'd substitute agave nectar for honey. Enjoy!
I am doing Baby Led Weaning (BLW) with Emmalee, so she hasn't really started "eating" food, she kinda just plays with it. She also has not had any sort of grains, because I didn't start with rice cereal.
I wanted Em to have a cake to celebrate, but I didn't want her eating sugar or gluten. I searched for some recipes and I found one which I thought was a pretty good starting point. Really, I'm surprised this recipe even turned out at all, because I tweaked it a lot and my measurements are slightly ridiculous. I halved the original recipe, which is why the measurements are strange.
2 T plus 2 tsp breast milk
1/4 tsp ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar)
1/2 tsp honey
A little less than 1/4 cup applesauce (wonky, I know. Guesstimate)
3/4 tsp vanilla
1 cup, plus 2 T, plus 2 tsp almond flour
A little more than 1/4 a tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/8 tsp salt.
Preheat oven to 325. Line four spaces in a muffin tin (or, be a procrastinator like I am and be forced to grease the tin instead)
In a mixing bowl, combine the ACV and breast milk until it curdles. (Mine never curdled, but I waited until I could see a physical reaction and moved forward with the recipe) Mix in honey, applesauce, and vanilla. Slowly add in flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cupcake comes out clean. (I'd make sure to watch your cakes closely).
That's it! I didn't frost them, because my 6 month old doesn't need frosting! To me, it tasted more like a biscuit but she loved them! Of course, you can always add more sweetener if you are adapting this for an older child. If you do add more, I'd substitute agave nectar for honey. Enjoy!
No 'Poo
Since my last crunchy post, I've gone a lot more natural!
My daily regimen is now full of baking soda and activated charcoal instead of phthalates and carcinogens.
The switch that I thought was going to be the hardest for me (but actually turned out to be the easiest, and the best!) was to go No 'Poo. No, not the potty poo, shampoo poo. I have (ridiculously) long, thick hair that I treasure like no other. The thought of ditching shampoo wasn't scary (it sounded impossible, but not scary), but saying goodbye to my conditioner sounded like my hair's death sentence. To my surprise, my hair has never looked better and my scalp is in great condition.
There are quite a few reasons to consider ditching the 'poo. Shampoo messes with your scalp's natural pH levels. It washes away all the oils on your head. I know, that's what you "like" it to do. But when that oil gets washed away, your scalp is all like "oh CRAP. The oil is gone! I'm dry as the Sahara! PRODUCE PRODUCE PRODUCE". Then you end up with greasy and blah hair, because your scalp is over compensating. Like I said, there are many reasons to toss the Pantene, but this is the one that really rang true to me, because I learned this about the skin on my face when I was a teenager. If my face does it, why wouldn't my head?
So, here's what I use now: Baking soda and Apple Cider Vinegar. That's it. My hair is so soft and shiny, my scalp doesn't itch, and I even have less hair falling out than I used to. I only need to wash my hair every 4-5 days, it just doesn't get gross anymore! Its fantastic!
I'd recommend dissolving 1 tsp of baking soda in 1 cup of warm water as your shampoo. Pour that on your scalp, rub it around a little if you need to in order to feel like you're washing your hair, and leave it for a few minutes. Any more baking soda/any less water and you run the risk of frying your hair. Now, for the conditioner, 1 T of ACV in 1 cup of warm water. I put the ends of my hair as far into the mixture as I can, let my hair soak of some of the solution, and then pour a little bit over my scalp. I let that sit until I'm done with the rest of my shower and then I give a quick rinse. Yes, it stinks like vinegar in the shower, but your hair won't smell when you get out, I promise.
I make mine ahead of time and store in jars by the shower, so I don't have to rush to make shampoo and conditioner every time I need to wash my hair. If you do that, be prepared for the cold shock when you're standing in the warm water and you pour room temperature water on your head! I wasn't prepared.
It sounds crazy, but it's well worth it! You'll love your new do. No 'Poo!
My daily regimen is now full of baking soda and activated charcoal instead of phthalates and carcinogens.
The switch that I thought was going to be the hardest for me (but actually turned out to be the easiest, and the best!) was to go No 'Poo. No, not the potty poo, shampoo poo. I have (ridiculously) long, thick hair that I treasure like no other. The thought of ditching shampoo wasn't scary (it sounded impossible, but not scary), but saying goodbye to my conditioner sounded like my hair's death sentence. To my surprise, my hair has never looked better and my scalp is in great condition.
There are quite a few reasons to consider ditching the 'poo. Shampoo messes with your scalp's natural pH levels. It washes away all the oils on your head. I know, that's what you "like" it to do. But when that oil gets washed away, your scalp is all like "oh CRAP. The oil is gone! I'm dry as the Sahara! PRODUCE PRODUCE PRODUCE". Then you end up with greasy and blah hair, because your scalp is over compensating. Like I said, there are many reasons to toss the Pantene, but this is the one that really rang true to me, because I learned this about the skin on my face when I was a teenager. If my face does it, why wouldn't my head?
So, here's what I use now: Baking soda and Apple Cider Vinegar. That's it. My hair is so soft and shiny, my scalp doesn't itch, and I even have less hair falling out than I used to. I only need to wash my hair every 4-5 days, it just doesn't get gross anymore! Its fantastic!
I'd recommend dissolving 1 tsp of baking soda in 1 cup of warm water as your shampoo. Pour that on your scalp, rub it around a little if you need to in order to feel like you're washing your hair, and leave it for a few minutes. Any more baking soda/any less water and you run the risk of frying your hair. Now, for the conditioner, 1 T of ACV in 1 cup of warm water. I put the ends of my hair as far into the mixture as I can, let my hair soak of some of the solution, and then pour a little bit over my scalp. I let that sit until I'm done with the rest of my shower and then I give a quick rinse. Yes, it stinks like vinegar in the shower, but your hair won't smell when you get out, I promise.
I make mine ahead of time and store in jars by the shower, so I don't have to rush to make shampoo and conditioner every time I need to wash my hair. If you do that, be prepared for the cold shock when you're standing in the warm water and you pour room temperature water on your head! I wasn't prepared.
It sounds crazy, but it's well worth it! You'll love your new do. No 'Poo!
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Happy Mother's Day!
Today has been so fun.
It was my very first Mother's Day. I have had an incredible time.
I get tears in my eyes every time I look at the gift bag with my baby girl's handprint on it. I get to celebrate today, because I have her.
Before having Emmalee, I would have been the first to suggest mom go out for a day without her kids. But now, I can't understand why you would want to. This day is all about being a mother, so why wouldn't you want to spend it with the ones who call you that?
I read a Facebook debate just yesterday, about someone being upset because she goes all out for her signifigant other on Father's day, yet Mother's Day is just Sunday for her. She complained because she didn't get the special Mother's Day perks like breakfast in bed, or crafts, or spa day.
I'm a single mom. I won't get breakfast in bed, I won't get handmade crafts, I certainly don't get a spa day, and I'll most likely have to shovel my (cold) dinner in so quickly I get heartburn. But Mother's Day has been my perfect day. I got the best gift of all.
I got my angel.
Happy Mother's Day.
My heart goes out to all the mom's who have dealt with loss and infertility. Prayers of peace.
It was my very first Mother's Day. I have had an incredible time.
I get tears in my eyes every time I look at the gift bag with my baby girl's handprint on it. I get to celebrate today, because I have her.
Before having Emmalee, I would have been the first to suggest mom go out for a day without her kids. But now, I can't understand why you would want to. This day is all about being a mother, so why wouldn't you want to spend it with the ones who call you that?
I read a Facebook debate just yesterday, about someone being upset because she goes all out for her signifigant other on Father's day, yet Mother's Day is just Sunday for her. She complained because she didn't get the special Mother's Day perks like breakfast in bed, or crafts, or spa day.
I'm a single mom. I won't get breakfast in bed, I won't get handmade crafts, I certainly don't get a spa day, and I'll most likely have to shovel my (cold) dinner in so quickly I get heartburn. But Mother's Day has been my perfect day. I got the best gift of all.
I got my angel.
Happy Mother's Day.
My heart goes out to all the mom's who have dealt with loss and infertility. Prayers of peace.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Dear sweet baby,
One year ago today my life changed forever. It was the day I found out I was going to be your mommy.
Thank you for saving my life, precious little one.
I love you,
Mommy
I call you my angel baby because you came straight from Heaven. I was told by many people that it was not the right time, that it was going to be too hard, that I didn't understand what I was getting myself into. I knew better. I knew that you were sent to me for a purpose. You saved my life, precious angel baby. I have not stopped thanking God for His perfect timing. I have not stopped thanking Him for you, and I never will.
Four months ago today I received the best gift anyone could imagine. At 5:21 AM you made your way into the world, weighing 7 pounds 13 ounces, 21.5 inches long. You were the most perfect thing I had ever laid eyes on. Your cry was the most beautiful thing I'd ever heard in my life.
I can't believe its already been four months. I can't believe I had to wait 20 years to meet you. You make me whole, Emmalee Ruth. I can't promise not to hurt you, disappoint you, fall short of your expectations, but I promise to always do my best not to. I will love you, Always and Forever, No Matter What.
Thank you for saving my life, precious little one.
Happy four months!
I love you,
Mommy
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Crunchy? Crunchy.
Having a baby has made me question everything. I read every label and I research everything. Some of my friends tell me that's a bad thing, and to some extent it is (I go a little Google crazy). My hyper-awareness has made me very aware and very skeptical about every "normal" baby product. I don't want chemicals and carcinogens and toxins any where near my precious little peanut (formaldehyde in Johnson and Johnson's?!) so I've decided to go the "Crunchy" route.
I ditched that commercial baby wash and made my own! I poked around the internet until I figured out the best recipe for me. It was really easy! Here's what you need
1 1/2 bars soap, grated (I used Toms)
1/2 gallon distilled water
1 1/2 T vegetable glycerin oil
Essential oil (I used lavender)
Color, if desired (I didn't)
In a large pot combine soap and water. Heat over low heat until soap is melted, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Add glycerin, essential oil (no more than 25 drops) and color. Whisk until well combined (be prepared for bubbles!). I poured mine into a large tupperware container to cool at set, then transferred to mason jars for storage. All together, this probably cost around $10 (rounding up) to make, and will last a looong time. Far better for sweet baby skin, and great on the pocket.
So, you've heard how your antiperspirant is slowly killing you right? No? Well read about it here and here and breastfeeding moms here. So, I ditched the degree and made my own deodorant! I encourage you to kick the antiperspirant habit! Be warned, you're gonna stink. Your body actually has to detox from all the nasty chemicals! I used baby wipes and baking soda on my stinky pits for about a week, and then the stank disappeared! So, here's my deodorant recipe for you! I'm loving it! Thanks to Crunchy Betty for the inspiration
6 T coconut oil
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup arrowroot (I used cornstarch, I've since found arrowroot is better)
Tea tree oil (optional)
note: coconut oil and tea tree oil both have wonderful antibacterial properties and will help fight stank!
Melt coconut oil over low heat. Incorporate baking soda and arrowroot. Add 15-20 drops of tea tree oil. Place in a CLEAN container and let set in fridge. Goes on like a lotion. Oh, and added bonus, you'll smell like you're on a tropical vacation all the time (you could try to overpower the coconut smell with another essential oil, but its a pretty powerful scent)
Enjoy!
I ditched that commercial baby wash and made my own! I poked around the internet until I figured out the best recipe for me. It was really easy! Here's what you need
1 1/2 bars soap, grated (I used Toms)
1/2 gallon distilled water
1 1/2 T vegetable glycerin oil
Essential oil (I used lavender)
Color, if desired (I didn't)
In a large pot combine soap and water. Heat over low heat until soap is melted, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Add glycerin, essential oil (no more than 25 drops) and color. Whisk until well combined (be prepared for bubbles!). I poured mine into a large tupperware container to cool at set, then transferred to mason jars for storage. All together, this probably cost around $10 (rounding up) to make, and will last a looong time. Far better for sweet baby skin, and great on the pocket.
So, you've heard how your antiperspirant is slowly killing you right? No? Well read about it here and here and breastfeeding moms here. So, I ditched the degree and made my own deodorant! I encourage you to kick the antiperspirant habit! Be warned, you're gonna stink. Your body actually has to detox from all the nasty chemicals! I used baby wipes and baking soda on my stinky pits for about a week, and then the stank disappeared! So, here's my deodorant recipe for you! I'm loving it! Thanks to Crunchy Betty for the inspiration
6 T coconut oil
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup arrowroot (I used cornstarch, I've since found arrowroot is better)
Tea tree oil (optional)
note: coconut oil and tea tree oil both have wonderful antibacterial properties and will help fight stank!
Melt coconut oil over low heat. Incorporate baking soda and arrowroot. Add 15-20 drops of tea tree oil. Place in a CLEAN container and let set in fridge. Goes on like a lotion. Oh, and added bonus, you'll smell like you're on a tropical vacation all the time (you could try to overpower the coconut smell with another essential oil, but its a pretty powerful scent)
Enjoy!
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
My Babywearing Adventures!
I love baby wearing! Seriously. African moms are just brilliant. There's only so much you can do with one hand.
I started out with a Moby. I bought this when I was still pregnant, and I was so excited to use it. Then, we tried it and she hated it. I was sad. (Please excuse the absolutely HORRIFIC picture)
So, I bought a Baby K'tan, which is basically a Moby, just pre-tied. We tried it and she hated it. I gave up baby wearing for a while and sold the Moby. My mom thought maybe Emmy didn't like to be confined (hated the swaddle), so I tried the K'tan legs out. She loved it! Yay!
The K'tan was short lived, however. Mommas who are planning to wear their babies in a K'tan please heed this warning. It is very important to make sure your Baby K'tan is sized properly and is not too stretched out, for your baby's safety. If your K'tan is too big, or has been worn too many times and has stretched out, it becomes extremely easy for the baby to slip into an unsafe position--which is what happened to us. Em slid down on my chest while she was sleeping and I heard her gasping for air. It was terrifying. It tightened right back up when I washed and dried it, but I only used it once after that. Too scary. Please be careful!
I decided to go for a mei tai as our next endeavor! I love it! It's my new secret nap weapon. I just pop her up on my back, walk around for a bit and she's out like a light! I wear her on the front in the mei tai too, but I don't have any pictures to share.
And lastly, my woven wrap! I wanted to try a woven wrap, but after our Moby experience I was afraid to spend the money (they're quite pricey) so I rented one! I looove it. I ended up purchasing a wrap (different from the one in the pictures). It should be here in a week! Yay! I'll be sad for the few days I'm wrap-less
I started out with a Moby. I bought this when I was still pregnant, and I was so excited to use it. Then, we tried it and she hated it. I was sad. (Please excuse the absolutely HORRIFIC picture)
So, I bought a Baby K'tan, which is basically a Moby, just pre-tied. We tried it and she hated it. I gave up baby wearing for a while and sold the Moby. My mom thought maybe Emmy didn't like to be confined (hated the swaddle), so I tried the K'tan legs out. She loved it! Yay!
The K'tan was short lived, however. Mommas who are planning to wear their babies in a K'tan please heed this warning. It is very important to make sure your Baby K'tan is sized properly and is not too stretched out, for your baby's safety. If your K'tan is too big, or has been worn too many times and has stretched out, it becomes extremely easy for the baby to slip into an unsafe position--which is what happened to us. Em slid down on my chest while she was sleeping and I heard her gasping for air. It was terrifying. It tightened right back up when I washed and dried it, but I only used it once after that. Too scary. Please be careful!
I decided to go for a mei tai as our next endeavor! I love it! It's my new secret nap weapon. I just pop her up on my back, walk around for a bit and she's out like a light! I wear her on the front in the mei tai too, but I don't have any pictures to share.
And lastly, my woven wrap! I wanted to try a woven wrap, but after our Moby experience I was afraid to spend the money (they're quite pricey) so I rented one! I looove it. I ended up purchasing a wrap (different from the one in the pictures). It should be here in a week! Yay! I'll be sad for the few days I'm wrap-less
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