Trust Creates Peace...Why We Don't Vaccinate

Vaccines are such a controversial topic these days. As with birthing practices, breastfeeding and co-sleeping, you will find pro-and anti-vaccine debates, books and "experts" weighing in heavily from one extreme to the other.

I feel that every parent has the right to choose if and when to vaccinate their child. They should be allowed a revised/delayed schedule at any point in their child's life and for any reason (not just because of a "religious exemption"). And, every parent should be informed much, much more on vaccine ingredients, side-effects and statistics. Their concerns and questions should be honestly answered, not brushed off. Doctors should not be denying patient visits because of their vaccine choices.

I want to state right now that I am not a doctor or expert by any means. This post is strictly my own opinions and personal research and studies. I am just sharing information that I have come across. Whatever decision a parent makes for themselves and their family needs to be THEIR decision - all I hope for is that it is an educated decision, well thought-out and planned and NOT because "my mother/husband/doctor/TV show said so".

Thanks to my mother's diligent record-keeping throughout my childhood, I have a detailed account of my early health history. Upon investigating it, I saw a surprising correlation between my vaccine schedule and illnesses, listed below. Not to mention the poor gut integrity! I was only breastfed for 1 month, and then on formula. My mother started me on rice cereal at 3 months, fruits at 4 months, meats and egg yokes at 6 months. What happened to exclusively breastfeeding for at least a year? I am not sure of AAP's stand on infant nutrition in the late 70's/early 80's.

My first series of vaccines (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus and Polio) was 3 months after birth, and then the boosters for those were at 4 and 6 months. Next, a series of MMR was administered at 15 months. Within 3 days of being vaccinated, I developed red bumps and was diagnosed with a "coxsackie" virus. About 3 months later the final booster to the first series was administered. About a month later, I developed "Roseola" with a 104* temp and rash. 4 months after that, I developed a "viral infection" with a sore throat and vomiting so bad that I was admitted to the hospital for 3 days and given and IV. So basically, within the first 2 years of my life, I had only a months worth of "liquid gold", and then given HFCS mixed with cows milk (formula), nutritionally-void rice cereal, solid food way too early for my body to know what to do with it and large bouts of chemicals and heavy metals (nothing compared to what the kids get today though!) every 2-3 months...no wonder I was always sick!

I don't blame my mother. She, just like most other Americans, thought that what the pediatrician said and what was advertised on TV was the best. No need to question anything. Fortunately, I was a very active kid, outside all the time, and was not as sick as I could have been if I were sedentary.

Fast forward almost 30 years and now I'm pregnant with my first baby. My husband and I decided not to vaccinate our child. Through his chiropractic college, we were lucky to have access to several books, research papers, and discussions with professors on the subject. My husband and his brother were never vaccinated as children. They received chiropractic care their whole life (dad and grandpa are both chiropractors). We know that our child's body is innately intelligent. It is strong and knows HOW to fight off disease. We believe that we gave our child's body the proper tools to live in ultimate health: a healthy, natural birth, bonding & co-sleeping, exclusively breastfeeding for almost a year and continued breastfeeding for well over 2 years, only highly nutritious food, sunlight, exercise, regular chiropractic adjustments and elimination of ALL TOXINS - chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, GMO's, sulfates, BPA's, stress and negative thoughts! Removal of toxicity and plenty of sufficiency! When the body is given what it needs - and NOT subjected to CRAP - the results are perfect health! And that is what happened - Perfect Little Baby Boy! Nolan has never been really sick, and never had taken a medication or antibiotic. A few sniffles or a cough here and there, slight fevers a few times, but nothing severe enough to warrant even a doctor's visit. We just continue to breastfed, rest and eat nutrient-dense, vitamin-packed, crazy-healthy-for-you food! When he is sick, it is a GOOD thing! It is building up his immune system to fight off the next cold or virus he comes in contact with. It is not genes, good luck or random chance - it is our lifestyle! And for almost 3 years now, Nolan is a perfect example of that.

"TRUST CREATES PEACE".....I Trust that everything I provide for my family is pure and sufficient; I Trust that what God put on this Earth for us is exactly what we need and nothing more....I am at Peace with my decisions. I do not worry, I do not stress. Our bodies are incredibly powerful, amazingly strong; We are prepared...Nothing can Break Us!

Most medical doctors, the media and the CDC will tell you that vaccines are completely safe;  they do not cause autism or seizures. But you can not deny the numerous claims against vaccines. There are too many parents that claim their child was totally normal and then, after vaccination, they "changed", or worse. I personally know families that are suffering. Although the CDC website claims that vaccines are safe, there is a link to direct you to VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System) to report an adverse effect. (QUESTION - If they are safe, then why would you need to report an adverse effect??) From that website, you can continue down the "rabbit hole" to numerous other sites that list number of negative reports, cases, compensation paid, etc.(http://www.hrsa.gov/vaccinecompensation/statisticsreports.html#Stats) Clearly, when you see how many cases there are against vaccines, can you truly say "they are proven safe"??

There will always be the "what ifs": If you vaccinate and your kid has seizures or develops autistic traits, you will always think "I should not have vaccinated". If you don't, and your kid gets a disease that impairs, disables or kills them, you will always think "I should have vaccinated." Do your homework. Make an educated, rational decision. Look at the severity and probability of the diseases. Dr. Sears' book, The Vaccine Book, does a great job at explaining this. He tries to stay impartial, and although he lets his opinion slip a little (he prefers a revised/delays schedule), this is the book that convinced me NOT to vaccinate. I also like Dr. Mendelsohn "How to Raise a Healthy Child Inspite of Your Doctor". This book is why we don't run to the doctor with every little sniffle (except for the incredibly boring and time-consuming "well visits" mandated in the 1st year by the insurance company)...Mother Knows Best!

We must remember that statistics are not black-and-white. They are many, many shades of gray. When they say that X number of children die from X-disease each year, we must ask: Where these children already sick? Maybe they had an auto-immune disease? Were they cared for, dressed, fed properly? Were they living in poor, sub-standard conditions? Were the parents unable, or unwilling, to get them immediate medical attention? I have to believe that a normal, healthy child that received proper and prompt medical attention would easily "survive" Measles or Mumps, and even Pertussis.




LIES and SCARE-TATICS
from the Pharmaceutical Companies

Pure, Perfect Baby-
THIS is our Health-Assurance

The Natural Mama's Favorite Beauty Products



EO Soap



I am the first to admit that I do not know much about make-up or "beauty products". I try to find products made with as few ingredients as possible, as natural ingredients as possible, reasonably priced and that works well for my skin and hair.

My new favorite Bodywash/Shampoo is EO Soap Everyone Soap "3-in-1" Shampoo, Body Wash and Bubble Bath. The Citrus Coconut smells AWESOME! I like that I only have to buy one product and the whole family can use it! Easy for traveling, too.

For a bar soap, I like Kiss My Face Olive Oil/Shea Butter Bar Soap.


Whole Foods 365 puts out a very reasonably priced shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion. Favorite scents are Herbal Mint and Citrus. I also LOVE their Gentle Face Wash.

Dr. Bronners



Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap works good for baby and as a body wash. I do not like to wash my hair with Castile soap as it makes my hair feel very dry. Since it is very concentrated, it lasts forever! I like to put the date on bottle of soaps or lotions so I know how long it lasts and if it's worth it's price. I have been using a 16oz bottle of Castile Soap for Nolan (Probably cost about $12.00) and it has lasted me almost a whole year!!!


Dr. B Leave-in Cream



Dr. Bronner makes an Incredible "Lavender Leave-in Conditioner". Smells great and makes your hair feel really silky. I will comb a little through my hair after a shower. Definatly use this if you do wash your hair with Castile soap. Whether I let my hair air-dry, blow-dry immediately, or blow-dry the next day, it always looks great, and I don't need to use any other hair products. This is a Must-Have product for me...don't know what I would do without it!

Body Lotions - I switch it up between Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, Whole Foods 365 Emollient Body Lotion and Ver-e-Nice Pure African Shea Butter. It depends if it's day or night that I'm applying lotion (I don't like to be to greasy if I'm going out or teaching), if I have a sunburn, or if it's winter and my skin feels really dry. At night I use a drop of EVCO on my face as a lotion and wake up with smooth, soft skin. For baby, the ONLY lotion I recommend is EVCO, or a pure Shea butter. Great for diaper rashes, sunburns, or any other skin irritations.

Make-up - My favorite that I have been using for a couple years now is Ecco Bella. I LOVE the way their products work with my skin; they have all-natural, plant-based ingredients, which help clear up blemishes with the vitamins and minerals. For makeup brushes, I like EcoTools.




EVCO!!



A little jar of Extra Virgin Coconut Oil sit on the counter and is used as make-up remover, face, hand & body lotion, leave-in deep hair conditioner and natural healer of blemishes, scrapes and cuts.

I also like to make a sugar-scrub with EVCO, Sugar and a few drops of essential oil (I have been using Sweet Orange). With the water OFF, scrub up your entire body. A sugar-scrub is great for removing dead skin and eliminating toxins. And this homemade version costs only pennies compared to the store-bought stuff! The coconut oil keeps your skin super soft, so when you get out of the shower, very lightly towel-off. That way you will keep the coconut oil on your skin.

The Paleo Diet or Paleo Lifestyle

"The Paleo Diet" , developed by Dr. Loren Cordain, Professor at Colorado State University, has gained quite a bit a popularity over the past few years. The Paleo Diet Book has been studied, dissected and embraced by fellow professors, students, health professionals, namely Chiropractors, athletes, CrossFit enthusiasts and many more. The Paleo Diet recommends that we follow the diet of our Paleolithic ancestors or "hunter-gatherers". These people had virtually no heart disease, no diabetes, no cancer. They were lean and strong, with clear skin, healthy hair and nails. This is because of what they ate. And what would a person living 40,000 years ago eat? Fruits and veggies, nuts and berries, lean meats, fish and seafood. No dairy, no grains, no refined sugars. The things that God put on the earth and nothing else (not that they had much of a choice!) These are the foods that are innate for our body, the ones that allow our body to function properly and fight off disease.

The book briefly touches on exercise, and has inspired many other health and exercise professional designing programs around "hunter-gatherer" primal movement patterns: jumping, climbing, pulling, pushing, lifting, running, throwing, etc. If this is the way our ancestors moved to build, hunt, fight and live then that is how our modern body should be moving too. And, it is more fun this way then running on a treadmill!

But this is where the "Paleo Diet" ends, with food and exercise only, and where the "Paleo Lifestyle" picks up. Never heard of it? Let me share.

In the Paleolithic era, women would have birthed their babies at home, with a skilled midwife. In fact, up until the early 1900's, all babies were born at home. 90% of pregnancies are completely normal and uncomplicated. For the majority of women (and their babies), it is actually safer, quicker and easier to birth at home then the hospital. The hospital should be for emergency care only - not for a normal everyday occurrence.

The "hunter-gatherer" mother would breastfeed her child for as long as they wanted. The average weaning age (if left up the child) is between 2.5 years and 7 years. That child was carried approx 8000+ miles over the first few years of it's life, nursed on demand, sleep next to mother and was with it's mother constantly until it was old enough to join in the daily jobs of hunting or gathering. This child never got vaccinated, exercised outside all day, and ate healthy, nutrient-dense foods. This child's immune system was never compromised by toxins or chemicals.

The Paleo Diet book, although wonderful and informative, does not touch on any of these subjects. How great would it be to teach modern parents that living like our ancestors it easier, healthier and the innate way to live, the way that we were designed to live. Before your child is ready to eat the Foods of our Earth, that breastmilk (not formula) is superior, for alteast a full year, and then for as long after that that the child/mother agree on. Just like F&V and lean meats are the innate foods for our bodies, breastmilk is the innate, perfect food for a baby, full of probiotics, EFA's and immunoglobulins. When a baby is carried by mother, close to mother often and sleeps with mother, her milk supply stays strong and baby feels safe and secure. Baby is less stressed, therefore less prone to illness and disease. And, if baby is not feeling well, he is not pumped full of antibiotics, Ni-quil and left alone. Mama stops what she is doing to tend to baby so he will recover quickly without drugs.

The Paleo Book touches only briefly on the QUALITY of food, which I feel is a huge void in the book, since Dr. Cordain reiterates over and over again to be eating like our ancestors. 40,000 years ago people did not have to worry about GMO's, pesticides, irradiation, antibiotics, growth hormones and soil run-off. But today we do! He does mention briefly grass-fed and free-range beef and chicken. However, we also need to look for "hormone-free" and "no-antibiotics" on all meats and chicken and "wild caught" on all fish. As for Fruits and Veggies, I always buy organic to avoid GMO's and pesticides. Eating the best, highest quality food is VITAL for optimum health!

I am also a huge fan of raw foods. The Paleo Diet Book does not make a formal statement either way, they just encourgae you to eat F&V. I feel eating as raw as possible is the best way to keep all the nutrients and living enzymnes intact in your food. If you do decide to cook your veggies, lightly steam only, so they still have a little crunch.

I encourage everyone to read "The Paleo Diet" book. It is an easy read and highly informative, with some great recipes. Just remember the quality of your food is just as important as the type of food it is. Eating an apple is great; its full of vitamin and minerals, fiber and antioxidants. But none of that matters if the apple is genetically modified or full of pesticides. Why put those chemicals INTO your body, when the reason your eating the apple is to eat healtier!?

Traveling with Baby - and keeping your sanity!

I'm sure there are alot of Mamas out there that have traveled way more then us, but I still wanted to share our traveling experiences with the parents that are nervous to travel with little ones. Having a baby is no reason not to take day trips, long weekends or even cross-country excursions. In fact, I think it is easier to travel with a baby then a toddler!



Waiting to board the plane


One of the easiest ways to keep the trip cheap and stress-free is to Breastfeed! Baby is satisfied, Mom and Dad are less stressed, no need to carry bottles and formula and Baby will get those awesome immunities from the breastmilk to help fight off any colds.

For trips that required plane rides, we found it much easier to bring enough diapers, wipes and snacks for the plane ride, but then purchase those items once we arrived at our destination. That way we did not have to carry-on or pack a huge amount of stuff. We also did not pack shampoo or soap. We just went to the local health food store and picked up a small container of castile soap - gentle enough for baby, can be used on hair and body and you can even wash clothes and dishes with it.

If you are staying in once location for a few days and you can find one, a hotel room with a kitchen is sooo worth it! We stayed in one of these for over a week and saved a ton of money by not eating out and eating healthier food. Next time, I will bring the blender - Seriously! At the end of that trip, we were desperate for a green smoothie!

Snag stuff from the hotel. It's ok...that's why its there! In the morning, we would grab a bunch of bananas, apples, plain yogurt, oatmeal, and peanut butter & honey packets. Then we would have little snacks throughout the day. You can pick up or even bring (its so light!) a bag of Quonia Flakes. These cook up like instant oatmeal. Add in some honey, cinnamon, raisins and bananas from the Breakfast Buffet and you got a healthy, filling meal that your kids will enjoy too!

If you are staying with someone at their house, or in a hotel for more then a few days, consider bringing less clothes and doing laundry a few times throughout the trip. You will save space when packing, and maybe can get all the family's clothes in one suitcase (like we do!). Only one bag check fee and less hassle. Most hotels have a laundry area and laundry-mats can be a "fun" outing for the kids.

We have always rented the carseats with the rental car. You save on buying an extra seat on the plane and lugging that heavy carseat through the airport.



Sightseeing in St. Augustine at 2 months



Bring a soft carrier or sling, even you plan on bringing your stroller. It's nice to have options, and this makes it very easy when exploring a place that strollers just don't belong (hiking, beach, medieval castles and most of Europe!).

For babies and toddlers, bringing a few familiar things from home can be comforting (books, special toys, DVD's). Bedtime can be tough, so a special blanket or lovey can help. If you already co-sleep, like we do, this will be a much easier transition. I have found exploring the hotel can be fun for a toddler and something special to add to the trip. Create a vacation "routine" and sticking some of your regular at-home routines can keep kids calm because there is consistency. Nolan loved helping with the clothes at the laundromat, pushing the elevator buttons, looking for our "new car" in the parking lot, and saying "HI" to the front-desk staff every time we passed by.

Do your homework. Find out where the health food store, laundromat, library, parks, storytimes, kids playgroups or kids yoga, malls and kid-friendly places are ahead of time. This helps when you need to get something fast or prevent a melt-down!!

This is a great post: 10 Benefits to Breastfeed during the Holidays. Also applies to anytime traveling.

And most important....Remember to BREATHE!! and LAUGH!

Do I really need all this stuff?

Go into any baby store to register and you will no doubt be given a looooong list of "must-haves" - things that any modern parent just simply "can not survive without!" (read sarcastically). I laugh at this! Obviously this list is written to scare first-time parents, and even some second- and third-time parents, into buying everything on the list, and keep the baby supply industry one of the biggest money-making businesses in the world. Most of the time parents end of spending money on items that they really don't need, take up too much space, are too expensive, and some they never even open. Unfortunately, that hard-earned money could have been spent more efficiently and the environment could have been saved from more waste.

In today's economy, many parents are trying to find ways to cut costs, but some still struggle with the thought "but the baby needs that!" Really? Does he? Or are you afraid that if you don't buy that item, you have failed as a parent to provide your baby with everything in the world. In the last few decades, the baby industry has exploded with every gadget in every pattern and color imaginable, and they have a very clever way of making parents competitive over what to have or not have. More legitimate questions are "Should I get this now or later?" Or, "Should we get the car seat that attaches to the stroller, but is only good for 30lbs, or get the car seat that is 6-50lbs, but we have to take the baby out to put in the stroller?" I agree, this can be confusing. My suggestion is to visit the baby stores often through out your pregnancy, talk with friends who have babies and get their opinions, and really think how you would use each item, and if you need it at all. Do you imagine using it all the time? Could you borrow something to see how you like it before buying one for yourself? How long could you put off buying something? But, in the end don't be too hard on yourself - everyone ends up buying something they really did not need or like!

When I was pregnant, I knew that there was alot of  things that we would not need and I tried to make thrifty and economically-sound decisions. With my husband being a full-time student and me only working part-time, we did not have alot of money and had to make every penny count! We had a small apartment, (and still do!) so space was limited. Below, I have outlined the typical list you will get at any baby supply store, and have added my own comments. I understand that everyone's situation is different. If you have the means to buy more things for your baby, or for yourself, that you really feel makes life more convenient, then please do so! Some people spend $1,000.00 on a stroller, some only $100.00. Personally, I would rather spend my money on an awesome trip to Europe, investing in a larger house, or saving for college then a house full of unused toys and products that the baby has no concept of anyways. Babies are like dogs - they don't care what they look like or what they play with, as long a you are there, you love them, and you are playing with them!

The Typical Baby Store "Must-Have" List - (I'm not kidding - I copied this is straight from the Babies'R'Us registry!)

• Monitor - not needed if baby is sleeping in your room or co-sleeping.
• Cabinet and Door Latches - not needed until baby is very mobile, about 1 year. Depending on how curious your baby is, you still may not need for awhile.
• Safety Gates - not needed until baby is very mobile, or not at all depending on how your house it set up. We never had one.
• Outlet covers - not needed until baby is crawling, about 6 months.
• Travel Mirror - great idea, but not necessary. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road!
• Breast Pump - not needed unless you plan on pumping/storing. You can also rent pumps, borrow pumps (just get new flange and tubes) and contact your local WIC office for free pumps.
• Breast Pads - I prefer the cotton reusable ones. A one-time purchase saves money and the environment.
• Nipple Cream - I love Earth Mama Angel Baby Nipple Butter. Can also be used on cuts and scraps and diaper rash.
• Breast milk storage - only needed if you plan on pumping/storing.
• Breastfeeding shawl - I used my sling alot for public breastfeeding, but most babies do NOT like their face being covered. Try a light receiving blanket - you'll get plenty of those!
• Nursing Pillow - I LOVED my Boppy! A great investment.
• Burping cloths - Use cloth diapers, old tee shirts, washcloths, etc.
• 6-12 Cloth Diapers - See above (i don't know what they list these twice?)
• 6 lap pads - what is this?
• 6-8 Bottles for formula, juice or water - Bottles are not needed until you plan on pumping/storing. If you think you will pump for short outings, most pump sets come with two bottles anyways. Mine did, and I never bought bottles. And, I hope that by the time a baby will be drinking juice and water (instead of breast milk or formula), they will be drinking from a sippy cup!
• Bottle warmer - ummm.....use a pot of hot water.
• Bottle sterilizer - can't you just wash with hot soapy water?
• Bottle Drying rack - can't you just use you regular dish drying rack?
• Bottle brush - this is good to get.
• Dishwasher caddy - why do you need this if your getting the sterilizer and drying rack? Pick one, or just hand-wash and save more money.
• Insulated tote - most diaper bags have in insulated area built-in. Unless you plan on pumping at work and storing, this is not needed.
• Feeder for strained food - loved this! Great idea - but a little messy.
• 8-12 Bibs - wow! That's alot of bibs! You can just use an old hand towel or cloth diaper tucked into their shirt.
• Pacifiers - maybe 1 or 2 in case your baby does prefer this over thumb-sucking. However, nursing for comfort instead of a pacifier is best for baby.
• Baby Mittens - We rarely used these...maybe 2-3 times. You probably only need 1 pair.
• Rattles - yes.
• Teethers -you can just freeze a wet washcloth.
• Parenting books - see my list of resources.
• Nail Clippers - yes.
• Brush and comb - yes.
• Digital thermometer - yes.
• Ear thermometer - why do you need both?
• First Aid Kit - I would not buy a whole kit. Your baby is not going on a cross-country trek! The clippers, brush, thermometer, nasal aspirator and dropper are all you need. (and this Babies'R'Us registry did NOT list the aspirator or dropper!). Any other type of first aid supplies (band aids, neosporin, burn cream, etc.)you should have on hand and/or only use with a doctor's permission.
• Humidifier/vaporizer - I would not buy until you need one, and even then you can borrow if really needed. We never used these.
• Diaper pail/Diaper Genie - A regular trash pail can be used for dirty diapers as breastfed babies diapers do not stink!
• Diaper pail refills - not needed. 
• Baby Bathtub - Read my previous post on Bath Time and I explain how a bath sponge (only $5.00) is easier and cheaper then the Baby Spa ($30.00+), and how bathing with baby encourages breastfeeding and bonding.
• Baby Bath Sponge - see above.
• 4 Hooded Towels - yes.
• 12 Washcloths - yes - but you probably do not need that many...you will be dong laundry!
• Bath toys - not needed at first. 
• Body Wash - For my baby shower, and even after, I got so much baby soap and lotions that they have lasted me 2 years! No need for fancy baby soap/shampoo, just use castille, glycerin or shea soap - very cheap and gentle!
• Shampoo - see above.
• Lotion - see above. Shea Butter works great
• Baby Oil - this is not good for their skin - use coconut oil or nipple butter instead.
• Alcohol swabs - why would a baby need this?
• Cotton swabs - cotton rounds are better then cotton balls.  And, you probably have some already in the house. No need to buy any. As for Q-tips, get the Baby-Safe kind for ears. For other uses, regular Q-tips are fine.
• Diaper ointment - again, you can use coconut oil to keep baby's skin from peeling, for cradle-cap and diaper rash. Nipple butter works great for diaper rash also. Read the post Breastfeeding As Medicine for FREE alternatives.
• Petroleum jelly - not good for their skin.
• Cotton balls - see above.
• Diapers - you will have to decide if you will use cloth or disposable, but either way, this is a great registry gift.
• Formula - not needed for the exclusively breastfed baby. Please see my many posts on why Breastfeeding is superior to formula, and this can save you thousands of dollars.
• Baby Wipes - you can make your own. See my post: Baby Wipes, Naturally.
• Travel wipes - Most diaper bags now come with a changing mat and pockets for diapers and wipes. Just stick some of your wipes in there or in a zip lock baggie - no need to spend money on a travel carrier.
• Wipes warmer - call me a bad mother, but I think this is a huge waste of money and the baby will get over a cold wipe.
•  Diaper bags (small & large) - get a large one - for the first year you will be carrying alot with you even for a short time out. Any kind of tote works well for a diaper bag.
• Baby changing mat - see above.
• Infant car seat/Convertible Car seat/Booster Seat - you will have to decide on what system you prefer.
• Strap covers - not needed.
• Neck Wings - not needed (unless you have a preemie, or your baby looks uncomfortable in the car seat). You can also use blankets.
• Head support - see above.
• Full-body support - see above.
• Window Sunshade - these are great.
• Car seat Toys - I like the kind that Velcro around the handle so you don't loose them, but not necessary. 
• Additional infant car seat base - think about if you really need this. Even if baby will be picked up by another person, you can leave the car seat AND base so your don't have to have a second one.
• Car seat undermat - why? Use a towel.
• Infant car seat carrier cover - why?
• Stroller: travel system, full-size, umbrella, jogging, convenience - You will have to decide what works best for you. We got one of those 3-in-1 strollers/car seats and loved it! Especially at the beginning when Nolan would fall asleep in his car seat, I could just pick it up, carry it in the house and he would never wake up! I still have never bought an umbrella stroller. I know some mothers love them because they are very light. I still use the original 3-in-1 stroller, since it holds up to 50 lbs. I like that it has a basket underneath to hold my bag and save my back!
• Stroller toys - again, I like the Velcro ones, but not necessary. 
• Stroller netting - I have one of these and never used it!
• Weather shield - Not necessary.
• Stroller blanket - why can't you use one of your many blankets that you will be getting?
• Full-size swing - now why do you need a full-size swing and a travel swing? Just get one. The full-size is great, I had one, but certainly not necessary.
• Travel swing - see above.
• Jumper - these are actually not good for their developing hip joints.
• Mobile walker - these are OK, but make sure their feet can touch the ground. Not good for the hips if their feet are dangling. Also, not necessary - we did not have one.
• Stationary entertainment - what does this mean? The best entertainment is Mommy and Daddy!
• Bouncer/rocker - nice to have. A swing and bouncer can be interchangeable - no need for both.
• Baby Carrier - YES! A must-have, either a sling or soft carrier. You might choose to have more then one. Since they can be pricey, do your research and borrow to try out first before purchasing. Wearing Your Baby
• Infant positioner - what is this? A Boppy works well to teach neck and back strength.
• Play Yard/Travel Yard - I think they mean a Pak'N'Play. We chose not to have a crib, and we are so glad! Nolan's first "bed" was a Pak'N'Play and that was one of our best investments. He slept in the top part at first, and then eventually moved down to the bottom. I liked that it did not have hard rails, but was soft if he rolled against the edge. It had a changing table attached and a little basket for diapers. It was small enough to fit right next to our bed and was easy to get him out in the middle of the night to nurse. But a night, he mostly slept with us. It was just easier for nursing. Nolan is still co-sleeping with us at 2 years, and we won't buy a crib at this point. He will go right into a twin bed when ready, and that will be his bed for the next several years. I highly recommend getting one of these to start with and then only progressing to a crib/bed when your baby is ready for they own room. Even then, you can pick up gently used furniture to save money. Co-Sleeping.
• 2-3 play yard sheets - Many of the Pak'N'Plays come with 1 sheet. Maybe one more is needed, but a total of 3-4 is not needed; you will be doing laundry.
• Play yard netting - not needed, and why?
• High Chair - Never got a highchair, we use a Bumbo instead and still do to this day.
• Booster seat - see above.
• Splat Mat - you can use an vinyl table cloth or old towels to save money.
• High Chair Cover - line with a old towel instead.
• Extra Highchair pad - why? just wash it.
• Cradle/Bassinet/Portable crib - see above under Pak'N'Play.
• Bedding set for above - see above.
• 2-3 sheets for the above - see above.
• Bassinet netting - why?
• Crib - see above under Pak'N'Play. 
• Changing Table - see above under Pak'N'Play. Also, you can use a dresser and get one of those foam toppers for changing, or borrow, or buy used.
• Armoire - Nolan got a used dresser when he was about a year old. Before that, I just folded his clothes in a fabric-lined wicker basket, which is now used for his toys.
• Dresser/chest of drawers - see above.
• Glider/rocker - definitely great to have.
• Ottoman - great for breastfeeding comfort.
• Blanket chest - Not necessary, can be used for extra storage though.
• Crib Mattress - see above on Pak'N'Play.
• Cradle/bassinet/portable crib mattress - see above on Pak'N'Play.
• 3 crib mattress pads - wow! 3??
• Vinyl mattress cover - good idea if you go that route.
• Crib Bedding Set - Might be more economical to buy things individually. Most items you will not need or will be dangerous to an infant (SIDS).You can always add onto the bedding set as they get older.
• 4-6 fitted crib sheets - 4-6 is ALOT. You will not be changing sheets every day, and you will be dong laundry. 2 is plenty to rotate.
• 4-6 blankets - I would not register except if there is a blanket that matches your set or you really love. People will give you more blankets then you can imagine without you even asking for them. I registered for two, and 4 receiving blankets and got about 9 blankets and 8 receiving blankets!!
• 4-6 receiving blankets - see above.
• 4-6 waterproof pads - 1 is fine.
• 4-6 sheet savers -1 is fine.
• Changing table pad - What is difference between a pad and a cover? Buy one water proof cover and your good.
• 2-4 changing table covers - see above.
• 2-4 baskets/storage bins - nice to keep diapers, wipes and baby care items organized.
• Decor: wall hangings, switch plate covers, crib mobile, lamp, wall border, window valance, diaper stacker, rug, hamper...none of this is necessary. I know, I know - a baby's room is the cutest thing! And they are! Part of me wishes I had a nursery for Nolan, decorated with everything perfectly matching. But then I think, "He would never be in there. It would be a waste of money and space. When he is ready for is his own room, he won't be a baby, and he will want a cool "big boy" room. Then we can have fun decorating!" (see posts on Attached Parenting and Co-Sleeping for more info). If you plan on co-sleeping, like we do, this can save you a ton of money in the beginning.
• Sleep positioner - what is this?
• Crib Toys - a few.
• Activity toys - yes.
• Toy box - yes, or you can just use a basket, box or even a laundry basket to save money.
• Baby gym - Nice, but not necessary. Try to pick up these kind of things second-hand, as babies grow out of them quickly.
• Books - rent for free at the library.
• Play Mat - See above under Baby Gym.
• DVDs - Get an educational one like Baby Einstein or exercise one like Mom&Baby Yoga.
• Cd's - classical or instrumental is very soothing, or download from iTunes, or burn a CD from a friend. 
• Baby picture frames - not necessary, but nice.
• Baby books - great idea to document baby's milestones.
• Photo Album - yes!
• Announcements - You can do free e-mail announcements via evite.
• Thank you notes - same as above.
• Camera - YES!!!!
• Clothes: You can count on always getting plenty of clothes at a baby shower. People can't help themselves - the clothes are just too cute. You will probably continue to get clothes a baby grows - it's an easy gift for family and friends. Don't buy any - you will have plenty! I have rarely bought clothes for Nolan over the past 2 years! A clothing swap or consignment stores are great places to get gently used clothes for cheap.When you register, get sizes newborn - 12 months. That way you will have a good variety: Homecoming outfit, 9-12 bodysuits, 2-4 cap and booties sets, 4-6 side-snap shirts, 4-6 pull-over shirts, 6-8 stretch sleep'n'play, 3-6 cotton overalls, 3 gowns, socks.
• 12-24 clothing hangers - not necessary unless you have an armoire or closet.

One thing that Babies'R'Us does not mention, but is great, is a swaddler. That is one thing that really helped calm down Nolan. You can also ask for gift certificates, which allow you to purchase exactly what you want when you need it. I am also surprised not to see more things for Mom on the registry, like labor support items, postpartum products and nursing bras and tanks. Remember to think about these items, too - Its not just about the baby!

I am very fortunate to have family and friends give us some wonderful things for our baby shower, but many items went unused. You can only use so many blankets. There are only so many clothes that baby can wear before they out-grow them. And other items will last you forever.

The Germ Theory

Last week, I was at a local popular eatery for lunch. Midway through our meal, a woman and her toddler sat down one table away from us. She pulled out of her "suitcase-of-a-purse" a mini-aerosol bottle of Lysol and proceed to liberally spray down the highchair, table and seats. She placed the child in the highchair, engulfed in a cloud of chemicals, and gave him a large piece the complimentary sourdough bread to chew on. I wondered what would kill him first; chemical poisoning, choking on that obscene piece of bread, or cancer.

Within seconds, the potent smell traveled over to our table. I could practically taste Lysol in my mouth. I shot the women a dirty look as I quickly packed up our stuff  and moved myself, my 2-year-old and our food across a crowded restaurant. As we were leaving, her kid dropped his bread on the floor. She picked it up and handed it back to him without even brushing it off. WHAT!!??

This is not the first time I have seen mothers adopt this obsessive compulsive behavior over "germs", although it is first time that I saw someone practically asphyxiate an entire restaurant with Lysol spray. Antibacterial wipes, lotions, soaps, sprays and gels are everywhere. People buy this stuff in bulk! These products causes more harm then good. It might kill the "bad" germs and bacteria, BUT it also kills the Good Bacteria on our skin - the bacteria that is responsible for killing the bad bacteria and keeping our skin, and immune system, healthy. The more a person uses these products regularly, the more they are actually susceptible to getting sick because there is no defense. 

I am in close contact with people everyday, as well as Nolan and honestly, we are rarely sick. I am not a "germ-a-phob". We wash hands after using the bathroom and before eating, but I do not wipe down the shopping carts or "gel up" everytime I leave a store (have you noticed that those gel pumps are literally everywhere!) I do not have any "anti-bacterial" products, nor do we use Lysol or bleach when cleaning the house; only all-natural products, mostly made with vinegar, baking soda and essential oils, posted in Cleaning the House Naturally.

A healthy person with a highly-functioning immune system, and good bacteria thriving on their skin and in their gut should have no problem naturally fighting off these "germs". Simple ways to stay healthy are to eat a diet high in F&V and low in sugar and processed foods; take Vitamin D, Omega-3 and probiotic supplements, reduce stress, breastfeed your children as long as you can and DO NOT use antibacterial products on your skin! Other things you can do are listed out in Beat the Flu Naturally. Even if you do get a cold, or even the flu, that is OK! That is how your body gets stronger and builds up antibodies. Viruses and bacteria are living organisms, and as Jeff Goldblum's character said in Jurassic Park, "Life WILL find a way". That is why no matter how many flu shots you get, or antibacterial products you use, these "bugs" are alive, and they will find a way to adapt, survive, get stronger and multiply. Instead of worrying about the "bad bugs", focus more on your own body's "Good Bugs", and keeping them strong!


Consider this...Is the one thing we think that keeps us from getting sick, actually making us sick?


BJ Palmer's quote at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Iowa



"L.O.V.E." your food!

In conclusion to the previous posts about why to eat healthy foods and some pictures of how our kitchen is stocked, this post is dedicated to how to shop for healthy foods and make the best choices possible. I have come up with an acronym to help you remember the top reasons to pick a certain food item over another: "L.O.V.E" YOUR FOOD

L=Locally grown/produced. When it comes to F&V, this is a way to insure that the most nutrients are in the item. When F&V have to ship from across the country, they have to be picked before they are ripe so they are not spoiled by then time they get to you. Unfortunately, that also means that the F&V was not done growing and maturing, so it is lacking in full, vital nutrients. Make sure your F&V come from a farm as close to your home as possible. Farmers Markets and Food Co-ops make it easy to find locally grown F&V. Local also pertains to meats, breads and really all products (even non-food items). When you buy from a locally owned company you are helping build your own economy AND help reduce pollution (less cross-country trucking, packaging, etc.)

O= Organic. This is number 1 top priority (over local) when buying F&V, meats, milk, yogurt, cheese and really everything (again, even non-food items). There are several other books and blogs on this subject alone, so I will not get too much into it. Bottom line - buy organic when you can to reduce GMO, chemicals, pesticides, hormones, anti-biotics an other things that will KILL you! The top crops in America that are GMO are: Corn, Soybeans, Canola, Cottonseed, Sugar Beets, Hawaiian Papaya (most) and a small amount of Zucchini and Yellow Squash. If it’s not labeled "organic" or "verified non-GMO" you can safely assume it is GMO. According to Dr. Mercola, research has now found Bt toxin, which is present in many GM crops, in human blood. And as for meat and dairy, products from cows may be injected with GM bovine growth hormone. Although we should limit consumption, when you do buy milk, yogurt, cheese and meat, make sure to look for labels stating "No rBGH, rBST, or artificial hormones".


V= Variety. The more variety of F&V you eat, the more variety if vitamins and minerals your body will get. Next time you are shopping, don't just pick up only Gala Apples, for example. Get one of each kind of apple, since each one will contain its own special combination of God-giving nutrition! Try new F&V - ones that you have never tried before! Experiment! There are so many great websites that show you exactly how to shop for, prepare, cook and season, there is no excuse not to try new foods. Check out http://www.eattheseasons.com/ for how to save money by eating what is in season. Try to also buy a variety of nuts, seeds, beans, spices and, again, you will gaining a much broader spectrum of nutrition.

E= Earth-conscience. Our agriculture procedures have changed dramatically in the past 100 years, and it is destroying the environment, the food and the human race. (Just watch Food Inc) This sums up the top 3 points, just as a reminder that when you are about to put that item in your cart, is it good for your body and was it made in a way that did not harm the Earth? No pesticides, chemicals, hormones, etc. to leak into our soil and drinking water? Was the animal treated humanely, fed grass (not grains) and was allowed to roam the Earth freely before it served its purpose? Alot of companies are now even packaging their shelf goods in recycled boxes. Most co-ops and farmers market vendors don't even supply bags - you gotta bring your own! We need to start taking a stand and demand the type of food we want and how we want it being produced. Every time you buy organic, you are "voting" for organic. And, unfortunately, every time you buy conventional, you are "voting" for conventional. There are plenty of local, organic, free-range farmers/ranchers out there - they just need support and the demand, and they WILL supply it!

In addition to the above, here are a few more "rules" to follow when shopping:
1) Before buying packaged items, think how many steps it took for that item to get from the Earth to the state it is in now. How many human interventions and processes did it take? And, are you ok with that? Some items can not be avoided or it is much more reasonable to buy it packaged, but it should have as few steps as possible from Earth to package.
2) Know EVERY ingredient in a packaged item. If you don't know what it really is, or a 5-year-old can't pronounce it, find out what it REALLY is before you eat it. 
3) Avoid aluminum cans, especially that package very acidic foods (like tomatoes) that break down the aluminum into the food (look for glass instead). Infact, try to avoid anything canned, as this food is so over-processed there is hardly any nutrients in it at all. For example, I love soup on a cold day. Instead of cans of soup, make a big pot, divide into servings and freeze until you want it.
4) Shop the perimeter first - and fill your cart with F&V (local and organic), meats (grass-fed) and eggs (free-range, no antibiotics, etc). Then shop the isles for only items that fall under the above rules.
5) When it comes to nuts, seeds, spices, and dried goods (coconut flakes, cocoa powder, quinoa, dates, etc) always look for raw and organic, to again benefit from the most nutrients.

Remember: Your food is your medicine...Eat to live, not live to eat... Your body is a temple - treat it as so...and, L.O.V.E. your food, and your body will love you back! Enjoy!

What's in the Cohen's Kitchen?

Here are are few pics of our kitchen, small but fully stocked with the necessities to stay well. (This was also a good opportunity for me to clean out the refrigerator and organize the cabinets!)


REFRIGERATOR



• Top Shelf (L-R): Almond Milk (never cow's milk), Kefir Water (good probiotics), Grapes, Watermelon, Raw Protein Powder (for smoothies), cherry tomatoes, turmeric paste (for Golden Milk), Aloe Juice (for smoothies), raw chocolate balls/granola bars (home-made snacks), tonic water, vegan butter, coconut water (usually we buy the liters by the case, but the store was out!).
• 2nd Shelf (L-R): Greens - dandelion, Romain, basil, mint, sprouts, kales and collards.
• 3rd Shelf (L-R): (more greens), celery, carrots, hard-boiled eggs, more carrots (these were home-grown), eggs (in cartons). **We buy our eggs and chickens from local farms - organic, free-range, eating-whats-on-the-ground chicks. You know it's real when there are feathers on the eggs!**
• Bottom Shelf (L-R): Ezekiel Sprouted Living Bread, chicken, apples, bowl of oranges, pears, pomegranate.

*All F&V are organic, and most are from local farms. Farmers markets and co-ops have great prices!*



REFRIGERATOR DRAWER



• Peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, sweet potato, onions, carrots, beets.



REFRIGERATOR DOOR



• Top Rack (L-R): Orange, garlic, ginger root.
• 1st Shelf (L-R): Diced Garlic (when you go through as much garlic as we do, it's nice to have both whole and minced on hand!), Raw Almond Butter (never Peanut Butter), Organic Salsa, variety of dressings, lemon and lime juice, preserves, capers, Probiotics.
• 2nd Shelf: Organic Tomato sauce (I usually make home-made sauce, but nice to have a few jars on hand), Organic Yogurt, Maple Syrup (the real thing!), Spiralina, Omega-3's, Fish oil, Apple Cider Vinegar.



CABINET



• Top Shelf (L-R): Organic Puffs for Nolan (not a regular snack for him, but convenient to have once in awhile), variety of beans, lentils, couscous, etc. to have on hand for a quick dinner, organic, fair-trade Costa Rican coffee, brown sugar, Spelt flour, baking soda, baking powder.
• Middle Shelf (L-R): Raw Cacao nibs, Raw Cacao Powder, Organic granola, Chocolate Bliss, Ginger chews, Coconut flour, Organic oats, Muesli, Almond Flour, Flax Powder, Gluten-free Pancake/cookie mix, ginger powder, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, mustard seeds, coriander powder, sea salt, arrowroot powder.
• Bottom Shelf Left: Nutritional Yeast, Raw Honey, Coconut Oil, Nama Shoyu (unpasteurized soy sauce), walnuts, almonds, cashews, gluten-free rice pasta, granola bars.
• Bottom Shelf Right: All these little jars hold the things I buy in bulk. I keep the large bag/container in the back room, and use these to keep it convenient in our tiny kitchen - One day I'll have a big kitchen!! These include (All organic):  Hemp seeds, shredded coconut, brown and golden flax, chocolate chips, raisins, dates, rice, amaranth, wheat berries, quonia, pistachios. Raw agave, organic sugar.



• Counter Top (L-R): Variety of teas in basket, psyllium husk, vitamin D and others, Juicer, Blender, Kefir Water jar, Fruit Basket: bananas, avocados, acorn squashes, bag of flax crackers on top. Side cabinet holds variety of dried spices and herbs.

As you can see, 90% of everything is REAL, RAW, ORGANIC, UN-PROCESSED foods. Obviously, the fruits and veggies vary from day to day, week to week, season to season. We try to keep a good variety of foods, condiments and spices ready to make a healthy meal. I feel that if you keep the kitchen stocked with good food, then there is no excuse not to eat well! I do not deprive myself of sweets - I love chocolate! But, it's home-made, healthy, REAL snacks - I know exactly what is in it!

Next post will be on reading labels and making better food choices when shopping!

"You're using WHAT?!"...the breastmilk saga continues

I was recently told that I was "gross" for using expressed breastmilk medicinally, as I documented in a Facebook post. Now, why am I gross for using a "product" that is completely safe, natural and FREE, but those over-the-counter drugs are considered OK? At least I know what is in breastmilk! Not the chemicals and who-knows-what-else that are in drugs and other OTC products. Breastmilk serves many purposes other then nourishment for babies. In fact, breastmilk serves many more medicinal purposes then most people think! READ THIS:

I also have to laugh and shake my head about this because people seem to have no problem drinking and using the breastmilk from cows and other animals (yes -it IS breastmilk!!), but for some reason are disgusted by the milk from their own species! Other then food items, animal milk is used in soaps, lotions, and face/ hair creams, just to name a few. Just so I understand this correctly, it's ok and even told beneficial to smear animal milk-based cream all over your body, but it's disgusting to use human milk in your eye/nose to clear up an infection or on diaper rash?

Well, if you're ok with that, here are a few hidden ingredients in foods/products that come from animals:

• Albumen - Egg whites used to clarify some wines.
• Casein - Milk protein found in some soy cheese and other non-dairy foods.
• Castoreum - The liquid from the anal musk gland of beavers used to make sauces creamier and enhance raspberry flavoring.
• Cochineal/carmine - Red food color/dye used to color juice, baked goods, apple sauce, makeup, etc. This color is derived from crushing the female cochineal insect. 70,000 insects are needed to make one pound of dye.
• Gelatin - Protein made by boiling the hides, skins, connective tissues, hooves or bones of cows, horses and pigs.
• Isinglass - Sturgeon bladder used to clarify some wines.
• L-Cysteine - Flavor and dough enhancer mainly  from duck feathers or human hair(mainly from Chinese barber shops)
• Lactose - Milk sugar from mammals found in many foods.
• Rennet - Scraped stomach lining from cows or sheep used in alot of cheeses.
• Urea, uric acid - Excreted from urine and other bodily fluids used to brown some baked goods like pretzels.

You can visit any of my previous posts on "breastfeeding" where I have well documented our use for breastmilk other then for food. It has served our family well, and I am glad to still be producing this "liquid gold"! Mamas - beware of people that might derail you from using your perfect, God-given cure-all! If you got it - use it!

5 Ways to be a Green Mama

Today is Earth Day - and I couldn't think of a more wonderful way to say "thank you" to Mother Earth then sharing, encouraging and inspiring other Mamas to become a little more "GREEN"! My Earth Day post last year gave a few ideas, and here are a few more.....

The Natural Mams's Top 5 Ways to be a Green Mama:

1. Baby Food 101: Making your own baby food is easy! It does require a bit of pre-planning, but the true reward is knowing exactly what is in your baby’s food. In commercial baby food, the fruits and veggies are cooked for so long that they are depleted of their vital nutrients. Then they are diluted with water, and preservatives are added. Not a very nutritious meal for a growing baby. When we eat raw and as close to the earth as possible, we cut dangerous preservatives from our diet and eliminate all the jars, containers and boxes that become waste. All you need to start making your own baby food is a steamer, blender or food-processor, an ice-cube tray and reusable storage. (Visit my blog posts on "baby food" and "recipes" for more details.)


2. Think Local, Be Local: Supporting locally-owned businesses helps build our local economy. Buying locally grown foods is healthier and environmentally-friendly. Walking and bicycling to your local stores is a great chance for exercise, fun family time and reduces pollution. Visit your local farmers market to stock up on fresh fruits and veggies or check out your community vendor fair next time you need a gift. A recent study shows that shifting just 1% of consumer expenditures to direct purchasing of local food products would increase farmers' income by 5%.

3. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Before you buy, think about if you really need it. Can you swap baby/maternity clothes and products with a friend? Can you reuse items from baby #1? Or maybe pick up gently used items on consignment? Remember, every time something is produced, packaged and shipped, there are harsh effects on the environment. Continuous factory pollution and over-flowing land fills are a priority concern. You can even donate or consign your used clothes, accessories and furniture to make a little extra money. Reusable shopping bags, reusable coffee/water bottles, and cloth baby diapers saves money and our environment!

4. Cleanliness Is Next To Godliness: Next time you are about to clean your house, do your laundry or give your baby a bath, look at the back of the bottle. Do you really know what is in it? Do you really want those unknown chemicals on your floor, your clothes, dishes AND your baby? Those chemicals also wash down the drain, right into our water system and destroy our environment. Much research shows that exposure to these toxic chemicals can lead to neurological disorders, respiratory problems, cancer, and more. Homemade cleaners are easy, effective, non-toxic and inexpensive, utilizing items you probably have in your house already (vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, lemon juice and essential oils). Castile or Shea is a gentle soap for everyone in the family. If you do use store-bought cleaning products and detergents, please make sure they are phosphate-free. (Visit the blog post on "Cleaning the House Naturally" for more details and recipes.)

Free-Range, Organic,
Grass-Fed, Local Baby

5. Breastfeeding Leaves No Carbon Footprint: So breastfeed your baby as long as your can! Not only does breastfeeding save you money on bottles and formula, but the amazing immunological benefits of Mother's Milk protects your child against illnesses no matter how old they are. This can save on numerous doctor visits, medications and missed days of school & work.


"Nature needs no help, just no interference"

Cleaning the house...naturally

Have you ever cleaned the house with a cleaner that made your eyes water, burned your nose, gave you a cough or dried out and cracked your hands? Now imagine how that feels to a baby or little child, who is a hundred times more sensitive. Or a cat or dog, whose nose is always to the ground and licking everything. Every year, five to ten million household poisonings are reported. Many are fatal and most of the victims are children - Debra Lynn Dadd "Home Safe Home", 2004. These poisonings are the result of accidental ingestion or contact with common household substances found in just about every home. Unfortunately, most people do not realize that the typical cleaners that line an entire isle at the supermarket are extremely dangerous to children, adults and pets. Not only are conventional cleaners dangerous to our family's health, they are killing our environment.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, "Of chemicals commonly found in the home, 150 have been linked to allergies, birth defects, cancer and physiological abnormalities".

Such an overwhelming, expensive, dangerous decision...

Now most parents keep the cleaning supplies locked up somewhere, so they do not worry about accidental ingestion. True, but think about this -  what happens when you open up the dishwasher? Hot steam comes out, and the person opening it inhales the chemical-laden steam. What if your child is standing right next to you? What about when you bleach your tub, and then your kids sit in there and play? Or my favorite commercial that recommends using a part of Clorox Bleach to clean kids toys (which they eventually put in their mouth) and put in the dog bowl to disinfect it? Really? Who would put bleach, even in the smallest amount, near their kids and pets? Children breathe at a faster rate, so they take in more chemicals if present, then adults. They also have higher metabolic rates in which the chemicals are processed through their body faster. It is also about accumulation. The amount of solution used at one time might not seem so bad, but add up the floor cleaner, countertop cleaner, dish soap, dishwasher detergent, laundry detergent, air freshener, stain remover, bathroom cleaner....yes, that is alot of exposure!

There is absolutely no need to bleach everything. Natural cleaners not only do the job just as well, but you can be assured that you, your family, your pets and the planet are safe. Another bonus is that homemade cleaners are so inexpensive! If you are looking to save some money - and who isn't! - homemade cleaners are the way to go. Using products that you probably have already makes this change easy. You might spend a little on the essential oils at first, but they last forever. I started doing this about 3 years ago and I am still using the same small bottles of the oils.


Our vet, who is very holistic, told us once that the number one reason cats and dogs are brought in are for poisoning, due to the SwifferWet wipes. They lick the floor after a cleaning, and when enough of the product is swallowed, it causes sickness or even death! The Swiffer people came up with a great idea - but you can easily change it up to be safer! You can buy the Swiffer "mop" but make your own wet pads by wetting a thick paper towel or cloth with water. Spray the "Disinfectant Thyme" solution (listed below) on the floor and "swiffer" away! I have recently bought a wet mop by O-Cedar, and I love it! What I like most is: (1) It was only $22.00, (2) you can wash and reuse the pad and (3) you can put your own solution in the bottle!

STARTER SHOPPING LIST:
Spray bottles - $2.00/16 oz. bottle
Vinegar - $1.00/Gallon jug
Baking soda - $.72/16 oz. box
Lemon juice - $1.75/15 oz. bottle
Washing soda/Borax - $2.99/4 lb. box
Castile Soap (liquid)  - $13.00 /32oz. bottle
Essential Oils: TeaTree, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Thyme, Citrus (orange or lemon) - Range between $6.00 - $8.00/1 oz. bottle.


RECIPES: (These costs are estimates based on the quantity/prices listed above)

Herbal Degreaser:
(1) 16 oz. Spray bottle = $2.00
(1) Cup (8 oz) water = FREE
(1/8) cup Castile Soap = $.40
(5) drops Lavender Essential Oil = $.10
TOTAL COST = $2.50, and only .50 to replace the solution!
**This can be used on any surface (except real wood and electronics). It is especially good at cutting grease and dried-on food**

 Disinfectant Thyme:
(1) 16 oz. Spray bottle = $2.00
(1) Cup (8 oz) water = FREE
(1) Cup (8 oz) vinegar = $.06
(5) drops Tea Tree Essential Oil = $.10
(3) drops Thyme Essential Oil = $.06
TOTAL COST = $2.22, and only $.22 to replace the solution!
** This solution is awesome! I literally use it to clean everything. I keep a bottle in the bathroom and kitchen, and use it daily or as needed to wipe down the sink, counters, mirror, appliances, cabinets. No need to buy numerous cleaners - this one does it all!**

Mold/Mildew Prevention:
(1) 16 oz. Spray bottle = $2.00
(2) Cups (16 oz) water = FREE
(10) drops Citrus Essential Oil = $.20
(4) drops Juniper Essential Oil = $.08
(2) tsp Tea Tree Essential Oil = $2.40
TOTAL COST = $4.68, and only $2.68 to replace the solution!
**This is great for the bathroom shower and toilet. I will spray in the morning and let it sit, then come back later in the afternoon to clean. Wherever mold tends to build up, spray this solution in that area often to keep the mold away!**



Other things you can do....

• Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet, let sit for a few hours and then vacuum up to deodorize the carpet. Adding a few drops of essential oil of your choice to the baking soda will leave behind a light scent (I like Lavender).
• Combine baking soda and castile soap and a few drop of essential oil of your choice to create a paste. Use this as a soap scrub on sinks, shower tiles and glass doors.
• Baking soda, washing soda, borax and vinegar all help laundry detergent work better.
• Sprinkle baking soda on shower tile that is discolored due to mold/mildew. Wait a few hours to clean off, and it will be white again! Lemon juice works well too!
• Sprinkle a little baking soda or borax in the bottom of laundry pail or garbage pail to deodorize.
• Diluted castile soap with a few drop of essential oil can be used as a dish soap. Pure castile soap is gentle enough to use to wash baby, or delicate hand-wash only garments. 
• Equal parts vinegar and water is a simple fruit & veggie wash to keep by the sink.

Now, I do have to say that some natural cleaners I have not tried, or not been very successful with. However, I always insist on purchasing products that do NOT contain phosphates. For laundry, I LOVE "Planet" laundry detergent, which is also one the the "safe" detergents for cloth diapers. (Most all cloth diaper companies recommend that you use very specific detergent or the diapers could be ruined. No phosphates, whiteners, brighteners, etc.) "Planet" is gentle but effective for baby clothes, too! For the dishwasher, I use either Method tablets, 7th Generation powdered and/or liquid detergent or Mrs. Meyers.  All work great!

This stuff never goes bad, although essential oils can loose their power if exposed to light. Buy the kind that are in dark bottles and keep in a cool, dry, dark place.
The Naturally Clean Home: 100 Safe and Easy Herbal Formulas for Non-Toxic Cleansers

Green This! Volume 1: Greening Your Cleaning

Green Clean: The Environmentally Sound Guide to Cleaning Your Home

A Best-Kept Secret...The "Rice Sock"

I know, you're thinking, "What is a rice sock?". I have never heard of one until my midwife told me about it, but it is truly a life-saver! Imagine you have just finished breastfeeding your infant, and he has fallen asleep against your arm. Although you are tired and want to rest, it is 2:00pm in the afternoon and there are so many things that you need to to do before this tiny thing holds you hostage on the couch for another hour! (haha - just kidding) So, you gently begin to slide him off your arm to rest in his swing, boppy or sleeper. He starts to fuss and squirm, and you try to comfort him with a blanket or fuzzy friend, but no, he starts to wake up, cry and doesn't stop until he is back in your arms - on the couch! Your arm is soft and warm. He likes laying against you. Ok, so do you start all over again, or just take that nap yourself? You can, and enjoy the bliss of napping with your baby, which is wonderful. Or, you can pull out your rice sock and get some things done before he wakes up.

The rice sock is simple - fill a thick (preferably wool) sock with rice, and I add a little lavender essential oil to calm and soothe baby. You can use any scent you like. Shake the rice up and move it around in the sock to evenly distribute the oil. Knot off the end. The sock should be long enough to be filled up to match approx. the length and thickness (or more) of your forearm. A mens' sock works great! You can heat it up a little by running it in the dryer for a few minutes. When baby falls asleep and you are easing them into to their swing or boppy, just place the rice sock next to them or in between their legs and resting against their tummy. It keeps them warm and it feels like your arm. You can make a rice sock in 5 minutes. The sock, rice and essential oil you should have in the house anyways, so no special trip to the store or even really an expense - free, green living at it's finest! 

In his swing, hugging the rice sock

Nolan loved his rice sock. We have not used in quite some time, but it always kept him sleeping soundly and can help with an upset stomach. It also works great as a neck soother for mom while breastfeeding - just warm up and place on the back of your neck! Everybody wins!

Baby and Puppy enjoy the warm rice sock