When it comes to labor and delivery, I've had a wide range of experiences. Just to illustrate: #1 (Joseph) was chemically induced at the Army hospital and ended up being delivered via c-section. #2 (Catherine) was a midwife attended VBAC at the Army hospital, with the usual interventions (IV, epidural). #3 (Margaret) and #4 (Benjamin) and #5 (Samuel) and #6 (Susanna) were all totally natural VBAC's and midwife attended at a free-standing birth center. I've never done a home birth Continue Reading
A Common-Sense Approach to Tantrums
Tantrums usually peak in the toddler years. Modern magazines and parenting books usually offer the same type of advice. Either ignore the tantrum or get down on the child's level and attempt to reason. But there are potential weaknesses to these 2 approaches. Ignoring or trying to distract a child who's having a tantrum is evasive. You're missing out on a teachable moment, the chance to show him that tantrums will not be tolerated (they are obnoxious and disrespectful!) and that anger Continue Reading
How to Manage Morning Sickness
I chose the title of my post carefully because after six pregnancies I still haven't found out to get rid of morning sickness completely (I know....boo! hiss!). Some women do find complete relief in one way or another, but for most of us it's a matter of learning how to cope until the tincture of time works its magic. All I can offer here are tips on managing morning sickness. If there's a "morning sickness remedy" out there, you can bet this mother has tried it. I have strapped on Sea Bands, Continue Reading
The Greater Glory: New Blockbuster Film Coming to America June 1st
I want to tell you about an upcoming movie that your family might enjoy which just opened in Mexico last week and is coming to America on June 1st. The star of the movie, Andy Garcia, described it this way: "It broke all records in Mexico as the second highest grossing film since Titanic. It’s a universal, international story for the world. It’s a story that needs to be told." Garcia is referring to the Cristero Wars which raged in Mexico from 1926 to 1929. Fellow actor Eduardo Verastegui, Continue Reading
A Recipe for Spring Happiness
To begin, start with one yard full of fresh green grass. Add one Buff Orpington: Then throw in a few Pekin ducks: And perhaps a rabbit: or two? And don't forget to drop in a pair of goslings: And for a little bit of "kick," you'll certainly need a donkey: Last of all, it's always nice to have something to sweeten the dish a little: And a hungry crew to enjoy all the goodness! When you combine all of these ingredients you will Continue Reading