The Validity of Exclusively Pumping Breast Milk: Embracing Individual Choices

You're the guardian of motherly love, expressed drop by drop. Welcome to the blog post where I aim to shed some light on why it's okay to exclusively pump, and why it's a valid choice. I want to be able to empower mothers on the journey that I'm on. Breastfeeding is a beautiful way to bond, but not everyone can or wants to bond by breastfeeding. Here we talk about the reasons why you might want to do so. 

8 Reasons Why You May Want to Pump

1. Being able to share the responsibility of feeding your baby with others: If you're pumping your breastmilk, your baby can bond with you and any of the people taking care of it. 

2. Work or Lifestyle issues: If a breastfeeding human has a busy life with work or a busy lifestyle, exclusively pumping makes it easy for anyone who wants to breastfeed, but isn't able to. Even when you are away baby can eat milk another day.

3. Easier to manage your supply: Ever wonder how much milk your baby receives? When you're exclusively pumping, you're able to measure how much milk your baby gets and if you need to adjust feeding your baby's feeding schedule. 

4. Being able to breastfeed longer: If you have a breastfeeding goal, as most mothers do, pumping can help a mother reach their goal. If you save a stash of breast milk in your freezer and use an app or something like the Exclusive Breast Feeding Calculator, you'll be able to make it to your goal easier. 

5. Being able to share milk with others: Did you know that you can donate your milk to a mom who may need it? Sometimes things come up and a mother in the NICU can use some milk, moms of multiple babies or even a mom who's going through health issues.  Back when my son was born, I relied on donor milk the first week because my milk hadn't come in yet. Now that I'm able to produce my own milk, it's my hope that I will be able to help other mothers in the future. 

6. Medical issues: Piggybacking on the last reason, sometimes a person can't breastfeed but she can actually pump milk. Babies have latching issues, moms can have nipple pain, and there are other options where a baby or mom can't breastfeed from the tap. With the use of pumps, there are ways that a baby can still enjoy breast milk.

7. Increased milk supply: If your milk supply is low, regular and consistent pumping an actually

stimulate milk production. It's a bit like a grocery store, the more you pump, the more your body can create. 

8. For comfort, and confidence: Not all peoples are confident enough to breastfeed in public, being able to take out a bottle may be a little more comfortable, especially if they prefer to avoid social situations where they may feel uncomfortable about breastfeeding. 

Conclusion

There is no one-size-fits-all, and one-way works approach when it comes to feeding your baby. No matter your choice, whether it be exclusively pumping, breastfeeding, or even formula feeding, what matters most is that your baby is happy and healthy. I'd love to hear about your experiences when it comes to feeding your baby. If there are more reasons that should be added to this beautiful list feel free to list them and I'll add them to this post. Let's celebrate motherhood and support everyone's choices!

From Bump to Baby: Transitioning from a Pregnancy Blog posts to baby blog posts

It's time to switch gears a little bit when it comes to pregnancy blog posts, I'm sure there will still be some, but because this blog follows my day-to-day life, I'm no longer pregnant anymore. I believe that this blog is both a learning platform for myself and others and also a way to document my life. That also means documenting my new babies' milestones and experiences and posting things I'm learning about when it comes to pregnancy. 

That doesn't mean that I won't have health, mindfulness, and bonding blog posts, because I will. It's just the change when it comes to pregnancy vs. baby that is going to be changing a lot. 

 A little memory-jogging moment

Some of my favorite blog posts were the ones that taught me to be mindful during pregnancy and reminded me to bond with my unborn baby. Belly story time was even more fun once my baby was born. I even tried to be mindful when I was in labor. Things like that became a valuable moment for me when I was pregnant for obvious reasons. 

Embracing the New

I am starting a list of new baby-related blog posts already! I want to be able to help other new moms. I'm not afraid to bring people along for the new baby journey and create memories, and help others with some more important mommy and baby bonding moments, ways to increase breastmilk production, and things that are hippie related. There are so many new adventures to on now! Who's ready to see what the future holds? I know that I am! 

A bit more about the content

What I expect to be posting about is a ton of cool things that are still unfolding inside this crazy mind of mine.

Milestones. As a mom to a late-term preemie (I'll talk about my birth story soon), I am almost certain there will be personal and learning-related milestones that I think would be a great thing to learn from. 

Parenting Tips. There's going to be a lot more about parenting when it comes to giving some tips that I hope would work for others. Learning, especially when it comes to new babies and children sounds like a whole lot of fun.

Product reviews. I hope to be able to talk about products that I've been able to let you know if the products are a good buy, or do not try a type of thing. Especially when it comes to baby stuff. 

If there are things that you would like to learn and talk about when it comes to pregnancy and would like me to post about. I would really love some suggestions. This blog isn't all about me, I really like to be able to help others along the way as well.

The excitement continues

I'm not going anywhere anytime soon nor do I plan on it. I do understand that there may actually be times when there may not be a post for a few days, just because babies are exhausting, but I do intend to share as many experiences, no matter what they are, or if they're related to babies or one of my other topics or not. If you're not subscribed to my blog or following any of my social media, I encourage everyone to do so! 

Why I Plan on Documenting, the Milestones and Memories of Pregnancy and Stuff

Even though I've been down the "new baby" road before, it's been so long ago that I was down this particular road, and the old, phrase, "They won't stay little for long, so make memories why you can," sticks my head. I won't be writing a baby blog for long either, or so it'll feel, write the posts I can, while I still can. I am one of those moms who aren't a fan of posting pictures of my little one's to strangers, to protect their safety, but when it comes to memories, I am not afraid to talk about milestones, talk about things going on in my life and I'm not afraid to talk a little bit about my pregnancy journey either.

Possible Collaborations in The Future

What I'd really love to do in the future, would be to collaborate with other parents whether it'd be influencers, bloggers, or vloggers, I want to make this blog as much of a cute little family as I can make it.  If I'm able to collab with anyone, either on the parenting aspect or any of my other blog posts. I feel having a whole new perspective would help others on whatever life journey that they are on. If my story or my life doesn't resonate with you, I'm hoping someone else's life story or content will. If you're a blogger, vlogger, influencer, or content creator and you want to submit a post, don't be afraid to message me, I'd love to hear from you. 

Conclusion

The small journey from pregnancy blog to baby blog has been a short one, but I'm so grateful that I have been able to share the journey so far and I'm even more grateful that I'm going to be able to start a new phase when it comes to blogging. Even though this blog is about me, I'm hoping that this journey will be an amazing one. I thank everyone who's read my posts and supported me so far and hope you all keep supporting me!

50 Pregnancy-Related Self-Love Journal Prompts for a Blissful Journey

I've mentioned both my love for journaling and my love to show some self-love, but what if you can't think of journal topics for some pregnancy-related self-love? I provided a list with some ideas to help you. It's time to embrace the beauty of your changing body, show some self-care, and build a positive mindset. 

Celebrating Your Changing Body

Your pregnant body is beautiful, it's changing so much and it should be celebrated. It's time to celebrate your body in your journal. 

1. Reflect on the awe-inspiring journey of growing a new life within you.

2. List five things you appreciate about your changing body and its abilities during pregnancy.

3. Explore the qualities that make you beautiful beyond physical appearance.

4.  Describe how your body has transformed throughout the different stages of pregnancy and celebrate the progress you have made.

5. Write down affirmations that specifically focus on appreciating and embracing the changes happening to your body during pregnancy.

6. Explore the ways in which your body is strong and capable during pregnancy, highlighting the physical activities or exercises that make you feel empowered.

7. Reflect on the radiant glow that often accompanies pregnancy and express gratitude for the natural beauty that shines from within.

8.  Identify and celebrate the unique physical features or characteristics that have developed or intensified during pregnancy.

9. Embrace the natural curves and contours of your body, expressing gratitude for the miraculous ability to create and nourish life

10. Create a self-portrait that represents your changing body during pregnancy, focusing on capturing the beauty and strength you see in yourself.

Nurture Your Emotional Well-Being

We covered prompts about your outer body. Let's cover some prompts about your body, because both our inner body and outer body deserve self-love.

11. Write a letter to your unborn child, expressing your love, hopes, and dreams.

12. Offer yourself kindness and understanding by acknowledging and forgiving any insecurities or doubts you may have.

13. Create a list of positive affirmations to repeat daily, reinforcing self-belief and confidence.

14. Reflect on the emotional changes you've experienced during pregnancy and explore practices that bring you peace and emotional balance.

15. Journal about the ways in which pregnancy has heightened your intuition and explore how you can nurture and trust your inner guidance.

16. Write a love letter to yourself, highlighting your inner qualities, strengths, and the amazing job you are doing as an expectant mother.

17. Explore different ways to release and process emotions, such as through writing, meditation, or talking with a trusted friend or therapist.

18. Describe self-care activities that specifically cater to your emotional well-being during pregnancy, such as engaging in hobbies, practicing mindfulness, or seeking support.

19. Reflect on any societal or personal expectations you may have about pregnancy and motherhood, and write about releasing them to embrace your unique journey

20. List five moments or experiences during pregnancy that have contributed to your emotional growth and express gratitude for the lessons learned.

Let's Get Some Self Care in There 

21. Describe your ideal self-care routine during pregnancy, focusing on activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

22. Reflect on the small joys and mindfulness exercises you can incorporate into your daily routine.

23. Make a list of self-care activities that specifically cater to your physical well-being during pregnancy.

24. Reflect on the importance of rest during pregnancy and identify ways you can prioritize and incorporate more restful moments into your routine.

25. Journal about the ways you can prioritize healthy and nourishing food choices during pregnancy, focusing on meals and snacks that support your well-being.

26. Describe your ideal sanctuary or self-care space, and brainstorm ideas on how to create it within your home to retreat and rejuvenate.

27.  Explore creative outlets that bring you joy and allow you to express yourself, such as painting, writing, dancing, or playing a musical instrument.

28. Reflect on the types of physical activity or gentle exercises that make you feel energized and explore ways to incorporate them into your self-care routine.

29. Write about the benefits of taking breaks from technology and how you can establish boundaries to limit screen time, fostering a more mindful and present state.

30. Identify ways to engage and indulge your senses, such as enjoying a soothing bath, listening to calming music, or surrounding yourself with pleasant scents.

Ways to Connect With Others

Sometimes pregnancy can be tough and we forget that we need to bond with others as well. We don't know how to do it, but we want to do it. Here are some ideas to help you.

31. Journal about the ways you and your partner can nurture your relationship during this transformative time.

32. Reflect on your support system and identify people you can lean on for emotional and practical assistance during pregnancy.

33. Research and write about local or online communities that cater to pregnant women, where you can connect with others who share similar experiences.

34.  Reflect on the importance of nurturing relationships during pregnancy and brainstorm activities or rituals to deepen your connection with your loved ones.

35. Journal about the ways you can document and preserve precious moments during your pregnancy journey, such as through photographs, letters, or a pregnancy journal.

36. Explore ways to cultivate intimacy and connection with your partner during pregnancy, whether through date nights, heartfelt conversations, or nurturing physical touch.

37. Reflect on the friendships that have supported you throughout your pregnancy and express gratitude for their presence. Consider ways to stay connected and maintain those bonds.

38. Write about the family traditions or rituals you want to establish or continue during pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences and creating lasting memories.

39. Explore online resources and communities where you can connect with other expectant parents, share experiences, and find support, even if physical gatherings are limited.

40. Reflect on the benefits of seeking professional support during pregnancy, such as attending prenatal classes, seeking guidance from a doula or midwife, or participating in support groups.

Visualize Your Birth Experience

While our birth experience may not be anything like we're going to be writing down, but it's okay to still reflect and think about the experience anyway.

41. Document your thoughts and desires regarding your ideal birth experience, exploring your hopes and expectations.

42. Identify any fears or anxieties you may have about childbirth and brainstorm strategies to address and alleviate them.

43.  Use the power of visualization to imagine your desired birth experience, focusing on positive outcomes and feelings.

44. Gather images, quotes, and symbols that represent your ideal birth experience and create a vision board to visualize and manifest positive outcomes.

45. Craft a powerful affirmation that encapsulates your desired birth experience, focusing on strength, courage, and trust in your body's abilities.

46. Close your eyes and imagine your ideal birth scenario, exploring the sights, sounds, and emotions that accompany it. Write about the vivid details you visualize.

47. Describe the physical elements and atmosphere that would make you feel most comfortable and supported during labor, such as lighting, music, or scent.

48. Research and read positive birth stories to inspire and uplift your mindset, and reflect on the elements of those stories that resonate with you.

49.  Journal about your preferences, concerns, and expectations for your birth experience, and consider ways to effectively communicate and advocate for your needs.

50. Explore any fears or anxieties you have surrounding childbirth, and write about releasing and replacing them with feelings of confidence, trust, and empowerment.

Conclusion

Self-love during pregnancy is important, creating memories for yourself and future generations may be fun. This is only 50 ideas, there are many more ideas when it comes to self love and pregnancy. If there are any ideas you'd like to add, put them in the comments. 

Snacking Safely: Gluten-Free Ideas for Expecting Moms

As if being gluten-free didn’t already have its challenges, being pregnant and being gluten-free adds more challenges and frustration to the mix, especially when you're trying to find a healthy snack. When the challenge is real, and you're face to face with eating healthy gluten-free snacks what's a pregnant woman to do? Shopping for a gluten-free snack can be exhausting!

Why Being Gluten-free during pregnancy is important.

Even if it does sound tough there's a good reason for those who have celiac to remain gluten-free, even if you are pregnant. For those mothers with celiac, consuming gluten can cause vitamin deficiencies, which can lead to preterm labor, low birth weight, and even miscarriages.  Because you may already have some nutrient deficiencies, it's best to check with your obstetrician, to find out what kind of supplements and vitamins you may need during pregnancy.  

4 Tips for finding gluten-free foods during pregnancy

If you're confused about finding foods that are gluten-free during pregnancy, you're not alone there are a few tips that may be able to help you navigate your way around the store when you're having cravings.

1. 
   Read food labels: Foods you may be craving may already be gluten-free. When searching for gluten-free food, look for things like, "naturally gluten-free," and "certified gluten-free."
2. Stick to the simple less processed foods: Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, milk, cheese, nuts, and seeds are almost always gluten-free. 
3. Find alternatives to your favorite foods: Even though they may be a bit pricier, there are gluten-free flours and oatmeal, that can be used to create something you may be craving such as muffins, cupcakes, or oatmeal bowls.
4. Shop at specialty stores: As long as you don't live in the middle of nowhere like I do, there are specialty stores that have a wider selection of gluten-free foods that meet your needs.
5. Check out places like Pinterest: If you're looking for ideas, Pinterest offers many recipes (I included a few below to get you started). 

Some gluten-free snack lists

As I've mentioned, in tip #5, I created a small list of gluten-free snacks that I found on Pinterest, this is only a small list of stuff, there are way more places to find gluten-free snacks on Pinterest. 

40 Free Gluten-free Snack Ideas Kids will love

75+ of the Best Gluten-Free Snacks

61 Gluten-Free Kid-Friendly Recipes for Picky Eaters

30 Gluten-Free Recipes for Kids

101 Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Snacks 

100 Gluten-Free Snack Ideas

30 Portable Gluten Free Lunch Ideas for the Whole Family

Conclusion

Being gluten-free on the pregnancy journey doesn't have to be scary and there are many ideas. If you don't like one food, there may be other's that you enjoy that happen to be gluten-free. Take a chance, and take a leap, for both you and your unborn baby's health. 

Bonding Before Birth: The Power of Prenatal Reading

Hey moms-to-be, it's time to read to your stomach! It's a great bonding experience, it can introduce them to sounds, and words, and even start them on the road to a love for reading, and that's all before they get here!  Even if they can't hear yet, it can calm both mom and baby. It doesn't matter what you read, as long as you and your womb dweller enjoy the book! 

Benefits of Reading to Your Baby During Pregnancy

As silly as it sounds, there really are benefits to reading to your baby before they arrive. From enhancing brain development, stimulating their hearing, helps with their language skills to help calm your baby. If you don't want to take some random blogger who scopes the internet to help her learn about how to bond with their baby or talk about ways to better their life, Terra Centre,The Green Child Magazine and Belly Belly all talk about the benefits of reading to your baby during pregnancy. And that's only three links talking about reading to your baby during pregnancy! 

How to Choose Books to Read to Your Baby

Yeah, I know I already said it doesn't matter what you read because it doesn't really matter. But if you're looking for a little guidance. Finding books that have rhythmic language, simple text, books that reflect different ways of life and books that make you feel good. If you're feeling good then they're feeling good. Some examples of books to read are, The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, Good Night Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do you See by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle and Where's Spot by Eric Hill. 

Techniques and Tips for Reading to Your Baby During Pregnancy

Now that we have a suggestion about what to read, and know the benefits. Let's get to the fun part, the tips and the techniques, that make reading to your baby worthwhile for both you and your unborn baby. 

First things first, it's best to create a relaxing environment for you to read. Dim the lights, find somewhere with little distractions, play some nice relaxing music, and get comfortable. Some places that may be comfortable, especially for those that are farther along are a cozy chair, your bed, or maybe a pile of pillows on the floor. Be warned that if it's done correctly, you may fall asleep while you're reading! If you don't want to fall asleep, pick a time of day that you're more likely not to fall asleep.

Now that we're comfortable and ready to read, use a gentle tone, but vary your volume and pace to give the book its story magic. You don't need to be a Hollywood actress to read a book, and sometimes it's difficult to read with a pace, tone, or volume that you're happy with, but that's okay, it takes practice and practice makes perfect! When your read, incorporate some soft touches and rocking motions. 

If you're having trouble finding time to read to your baby, you can carry a book with you wherever you are or read to your baby while you're taking a break from work. Don't get too upset if you can't finish your book, because of time restrictions. You can finish the book another time. 

Conclusion

Reading is great at any age, even when your baby isn't here yet. You're still able to promote language development and bond with your baby. Relaxing and reading a book is great for mom and baby.  Let's all share a love for reading. 

From Bump to Baby: How to Bond with Your Little One Before Birth

Bonding with your baby can start even before they’re born! It doesn’t matter how far along you are and you don’t need any fancy equipment, to bond with your baby. When your bonding with your baby, you reduce stress, promote fetal development, strengthen your bond with your baby, and even boost your confidence as a parent!

Are you talking to your belly, touching your belly to let your baby know you’re around or are you thinking about the future between you and your unborn? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, surprise! You’re already bonding! But it doesn’t have to stop there, there are other ways you can bond with your baby it’s amazing, isn’t it?

Why You Should Be Bonding

Before I talk about things you can do to bond during your pregnancy I need to get some of the important stuff out of the way. You know the reasons why one should bond. Because the reasons why one should be bonding is very important.

Cortisol and oxytocin are the feel-good, love hormones that reduce stress. Reducing stress is good for both mother and baby. You know how to release those hormones right? Your baby can sense your emotions and knows when you’re happy or sad, and chances are if you’re happier, they’ll feel more secure. And feeling secure in the womb will also make the baby feel secure outside o the womb.

You know that cliché phrase about falling in love with your unborn before you met them? Bonding also gives the phrase a whole new meaning. You know you’re already attached by means of a cord, but you’re also attached by the interactions you’ve had together, even before they’re born.

Ways you can bond with your baby

If you want to bond and you can't think of anyways, these are just a few of the suggestions, there are more ways but these are some of the ways that can help you bond with your baby. 

Talking to them: Just because they can’t carry on a conversation, you can talk to your baby. You can talk about your hopes and dreams for them, what you’re doing at the moment, or whatever it may be. I often talk to my son when I’m at the store, explaining what I’m buying and I explain what I’m eating before I eat it. Kind of my way of letting him know how things are.

 
Singing and playing music: When you’re listening to music, it does many things such as relaxing mom, especially if the music is that feel-good kind music that makes you feel good. If you want to sing, it’s fine to sing to them as well, they don’t care if you can’t sing well, all you have to do is sing.

Reading to your baby: It’s never too early to start reading. Reading short engaging stories in a calm tone to your unborn baby.

Massaging your belly: If you want to relax, reduce stress, and stimulate circulation. You relax, and can even connect with your baby through touch.
Do all of the above including your partner in the process: Your partner can also bond with your baby before they're born.

Bonding with your baby costs nothing, and it’s a great way to relax yourself and connect with your unborn. Sing, read, talk, alone or with your partner. Way to go for wanting to bond with your baby! You can try one of my ideas or try your own, try to switch it up if you can. Unborn baby bonding is adorable and beautiful.

Make Pregnancy Fun with These 10 Funny Maternity Shirts

Being confident, and comfortable, while making yourself laugh is great especially when you're pregnant. We all have those days when we don't feel comfortable or confident, our old clothes don't fit and now we're not sure what to wear. That's why I like finding funny maternity shirts online, something that will make me laugh, and reduce the stress of pregnancy.   Laughter is the best medicine after all? Here are some of the funniest shirts I found online.

Why am I not glowing?

Walmart: $18.99

Prangry

Dicara Design @ Esty: $29.94

Coming Soon...Dinosaur

Nerdy Shirts: $17.99

$5 to touch $10 if the baby kicks

StokykoTs @ Etsy: $25

Don't Eat Watermelon Seeds

Tee Garb: $25.95

The Baby Made Me Eat It

Crazy Dog: $18.99

Keep Calm and Waddle on

Cafepress: $45.99

Fragile: Handle with Care

Yummy Tees@Etsy: $24.94

If you didn't put it there don't touch it

Crazy Dog: $19.99

No I did not steal a bowling ball

Cafepress: $45.99

Why wear a funny maternity shirt?

With the boost of confidence and some positivity, that flows through you and your little human's veins there are still some other reasons why one might want to wear a funny maternity shirt. Making others around you laugh while pregnant, creates memories, memories that can cause you to bond with others. It's not just others that the shirt will help you bond with, but your baby who can feel your happiness! That's even better! Isn't it? 

Humor during pregnancy is great, even if you're not wearing a shirt. But if you're looking to buy a gift for someone close to you that's pregnant or to buy one for yourself. There are many ideas online. I only got you started.