Babys First Year

There is no one in this world who knows us better than mom. It is in her every touch, smile, hug, and word expressed from the time we are born. We look to mom for approval, guidance, and love. But it is those special times, when it’s just mom and me time, that we look forward to and treasure.

Whether or not you are a working mom, spending time with your child is important. It signals to your child they are important and fun to be with. From infancy, your child depends upon you for everything; and as time passes, the nurture, care and love you have given becomes their focal point. They turn to you in times of need; seek your advice in times of doubt; and look to you for comfort when sad. Spending one on one time with your child is by far a time your child looks forward to. Whether a baby, toddler, teen or adult – your child needs you. It doesn’t matter if you simply sit on a big comfy chair and talk; or read a book together; or watch a favorite fairy tale on DVD being with mom has enormous positive effects on kids. It is just you and your child; no interruptions; no siblings to take your attention away; just your child and you.

Studies have shown the positive effects of merely caressing a baby; smiling; rocking and holding. The baby feels safe; begins to sense your aura; your smell; your voice. Being held in your arms is all that matters. As the child grows, he or she runs to you if frightened; or for no other reason than simply to get a hug, a loving word, a smile. Children who are not comforted from birth become detached as they become older; feel abandoned; and more often than not seek other means to find love.

Spending time with your child is important to their growth and how they relate to others.
It is very simple really. A mother’s love is infinite. As a mom you know this to be true.
Therefore, there is no need to explain the importance of being with your child. Perhaps this poem says it all:

Just Mom and Me

There was never a time you weren’t there
Expressing your love, showing you care.
You laughed with me, cried with me, and wiped away the tears
From the moment I was born, and through the winter of my years.
Your smile gave me hope, and your touch made me know
That for all of my life
I’d have somewhere to go
To talk about the fear, the pain, and the strife
It was you, who understood,
And gave meaning to my life.
You knew what to say, and when words couldn’t come
You held me in your arms -
No more needed to be done.

Just for Mom

For those of you who are too young to remember, The Donna Reed Show epitomized the super mom. Yes, she did it all, and was the perfect role model for women of that era. What most people do not know is that Donna Reed was executive producer of the show, and was heavily involved in the show’s immense popularity. This was at a time when women were subjugated to one particular role.

Subsequently, the emancipation of women brought them within equal status of the dominant male. With a nine to five job, children to care for, and either a single parent or not, moms are expected to do it all. But, are they? It certainly can be said they chose this particular path. Thus, the super mom syndrome was born, but at what price?

Let’s face it; no one can do it all without experiencing the suffering and stress related conditions adherent to the every day demands placed upon them. Suffice to say, many moms have tried: some have been successful, while others have been immeasurably consumed by its consequences. The super mom syndrome is exacting a very heavy toll on their home life, business, and physical well-being.

Thirty years ago, the top TV shows were exclusively focused on the housewife: the mom. Conversely, the shows today highlight single working moms who effortlessly juggle all of the demands placed upon them with flair and ease. Yes, they sometimes showcase the conflict, but quite frankly, the hype is more conducive to ratings than to real life situations.

The super mom syndrome has produced an A type personality, which has contributed to the imbalance and unrealistic expectations imposed by moms who think they can do it all, but soon realize perfectionism can never outweigh the happiness and fulfillment of simply being a mom, without all of the peripheral trappings.

There is no need to suffer any longer. You need to find a balance, prioritize that which is most important: the children first. They will eventually grow up, leaving you with the inconsolable desire to retrieve their childhood years. Resist the temptation to totally immerse yourself in one area. Stay healthy, keep your friends close, and don’t worry about tomorrow: live within the moment, cherish your family. You are the heart of the house; you don’t need to be perfect, you just need to be a mom.

Just for Mom

What is mastitis? Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast usually caused by infection. Occurring during the first six months of breast-feeding, this is a common ailment affecting new mothers. Let’s discuss how to overcome mastitis.

When the breast becomes too full of milk, because a feeding has been delayed or your breast has not been emptied, this will result in a clogged duct. This can cause the infection known as mastitis. Another cause of infection to the breast can be due to cracked nipples. You may feel a sharp pain in your nipple while your baby is nursing, which may mean there is a thin crack in your nipple. This can happen if you do not dry your nipples thoroughly after each feeding. Your doctor will prescribe cream to apply to your nipple and the crack should take a few days to heal. You can, meanwhile, continue to breastfeed your baby using the other breast.

Mastitis may be exhibited by pain, redness, swelling and fever. A baby cannot get milk from a swollen nipple, so you need to remove excess milk before you breastfeed. Using a breast pump is ideal. As stated earlier, mastitis is common and is treatable with antibiotics. You can continue to breastfeed, however, it is important that if you are diagnosed with mastitis to follow these simple rules: rest; drink plenty of liquids and before you breastfeed, either soak your breasts in warm water or place a warm towel over the affected breast.

Continue to breastfeed from the affected breast will not only help to clear up the mastitis, but is entirely safe for your baby. You can also switch to the other breast if the affected one is too painful for your child to breastfeed. Note that mastitis should be treated immediately to avoid any further complication.

Breastfeeding, Just for Mom