Water Birth or Natural Birth: Creating the Birthing Plan

This has become a very interesting topic in our house.  My two sons I had naturally.  But that was 8 years ago so what now? Technology has advanced to make the birthing process easier and more flexible for the parents. So why am I trying to opt for the water birth instead of laying on a table with my legs gapped open for the world to see and me staring at my freshly painted toes?  Well honestly, it's for the ease of the baby.

Water Birth

The reason why I am thinking about this is because I like the fact that it brings us closer together and he also gets to participate. A lot of times the significant other is sitting in the water right behind you or in front of you. I like the interaction that it brings between the two parents.  Another note is that the baby seems calmer as well.  I haven't done this in a while however both my boys had were very calm coming out of the womb.  It was like they were stars already and new it was lights, camera, action when they blessed us with their presence so they smiled and didn't cry.  Watching a water birth, I see that the mid-wife keeps the umbilical cord underneath the water so that the baby still feels the sensation of being in the womb.   So when they come out, it's like they are still in the womb. They don't cry. Don't cease up from lack of oxygen.  They are happy, quiet babies. 

Natural Birth

Now yes, I love this however I have some disregards.  I remember when giving birth to my sons my Doctor kept leaving. I am not the only woman with this horror story.  With my youngest son, I remember him telling me I could start pushing right now and he walked out of the room.  WHAT THE FLIP?? I also don't like the fact that it's seems very impersonal.  My family wasn't really there like I wanted them to be.  I was very unattached because I just wanted to focus on my child yet, it was a million random people doing their residences and taking notes.  But it has been 8 years since I have given birth.....WHAT WOULD YOU DO??

The Royal Family: Choosing God-Parents

I was thinking of all the things that we could give our child on the day of her birth.  I mean of course she would be blessed with amazing beauty, intelligence, wit and humor.  She will also recieve tons of spoils as she is the only girl grandchild on my side of the family.  However, what happens when IF something happens to us? If both of us have to leave the country and we aren't able to take her with us?  Lawwwd, I would be so upset if I couldn't take her to Paris with us (No, I am serious). Or who do you put in your Will that would raise her how you want her to be raised and you won't have a doubt about them raising your child??  This is when the BIG QUESTION is asked: WHO WILL BE THE GOD-PARENTS??

 I remember watching the God-Father, played by Marlon Brando, and thought that wouldn't my child have the most respected God-Parents ever, if she had body-guards around her 24/7 and she couldn't have anyone get close to her?  However, this would cause rebeling and land me in jail so this is so not the way to go! 



Now, in the Catholic Church, god-parents make the profession of faith during the baptism ceremony to assumeperpetual guardianship over the child. They are supposed to help fulfill obligations of Christian life and to insure fulfillment of the baptismal vows.  Does this happen in this century?

My definition of God-Parents? Someone who understands us and how we would like for our child to be raised. Has been a great example of their own children if they have any and has room in their hearts and minds for another one just incase emergency's happen.  Wouldn't mind being in that child's life as a mentor or someone to look up to.



I believe that the perfect God-Parents would be Judes and Sophia Smith-Pierre. I have never loved a couple so much. They have a great relationship with each other as well as their children and they make it almost impossible not to love them. They protect me and want people to do right by me as their sister. I have known them for more than 5 plus years however it seems like my life and everytime I am with them, I feel at home. That is what we want our daughter around. A loving, beautiful family that wouldn't mind feeding her pineapple upside-down cake to cheer her up!

Enjoy your day. Next Topic: THE BABYSHOWER!!!!

In My Thoughts: Pregnancy Depression

The Unspoken Conversation.  This is something that isn't really talked about. No one really understands where it comes from or how it even begins.  It's like something that no one wants to discuss because the first thing they want to put you on is pills.  But it's not that simple.  Not everything can be diagnosed or written in on a prescription pad. Some people are very embarrassed by this.  

**Between 14% - 23% of women will struggle with some symptoms of depression within their pregnancy.

Symptoms

Persistent sadness

Difficulty concentrating

Sleeping too little or too much

Loss of interest in activities that you usually enjoy

Recurring thoughts of death, suicide or hopelessness

Anxiety

Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

Change in eating habits

Triggers

Relationship problems

Family or personal history of depression

Infertility treatments

Previous pregnancy loss

Stressful life events

Complications in pregnancy

History of abuse or trauma

How I Deal?? 

1.  I write.  My youngest child is 8. A lot of things have changed since then. I am very nervous and I would love to share this with my family however if they create a negative environment for me, then I am unwilling to allow them to participate in deviating me from happiness. 
 2.  I talk to my love all the time. He makes me laugh. He tries to keep my mood at a place where I don't have to worry or can be less stressed. And then turn to others who make you happy. My friend Chanda Clifton and Denise Love cracks me up!! We chat almost every other day and it's fun to talk because they keep my mind on other things like their hair, skin and the good memories we have together. 
3.  I find something that really makes me feel at ease. I love to cook. I love my blogs. I love fashion and finding things that I want my gum drop to wear. 

If it's deeper than that, I would suggest talking to your Doc, Mid-Wife or Douala and see if they can refer you to a professional. 

I love you all. And if you ever want to talk, I'm here. :)

Bringing Sexy Back and Keeping It There!

Yes, it's true. You aren't feeling your sexiest. That same lingerie that you wore that got you into this isn't looking as appealing now especially when you really want that chili dog or the sound of a Japenese Steakhouse can be the sexiest words anyone says to you.  Well I have news for you ladies...and GENTS, I have found some darling attire that will  make you think you are a STILL Victoria's Secret Model. So here are some great pieces that I have found that are sure to turn him on and get you that special bowl of ice cream

I think this is a really cute piece that still gives you the security of showing off a little something.

Now for all you vixens out there, this is sooooos, soooo adorable. I love this piece because it still says yes I am pregnant, but I am pregnant only for you boo (teehee!!)

I like this one because it can be something that you just lounge around the house in and can be comfortable and feel sexy. It's not sheer so if you do want to be covered, it's fine but it would also be great for an intimate maternity shoot as well. 

For all my girls out there who are crazy about prints, this maybe the one for you. This open baby-doll is exotic and the added frills with matching panting brings out the inner catwoman in anyone.

I think these are so cute. The boyshort that is still comfortable and says it all!!! I think my Doc would get a kick out of this, she already thinks I am fancy.

For more great lingerie looks for the lady that has a little more ( I love that), please visit Mommylicious!!!

Date Night BUMP-cipe

We aren't really big Valentine's Day people because we feel that the love is everyday. No box of chocolates or flowers will change that. It's Friday and I am really feeling unpretty. Just down for some reason. Probably because that pencil skirt that I have loved, I can't put on. I really want to go to the gym and tone my booty but there's this child in my belly that is making it impossible. So I have to work around it and trust me, I have. With the help of Publix seafood and their great selection of healthy and organic viddles, all things are right with the universe.  Once again, you don't have to be with child to make this dish and you can just have fun with the veggies but I needed the mushrooms. 

Date Night BUMP-CIPE!!!

Bay Scallops with Pesto Pasta

Ingredients
ready made pesto ( or you can make yours, I don't have a food processor so the one in the pasta section works good
1 lb Bay Scallops
1/2 cup of crushed walnuts
1 cup of grated Romano Parmesan Cheese
8 oz package of wheat angel hair pasta
2 cups of sliced portobella mushrooms
white cooking wine
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Kosher Salt
Black Pepper

1. Boil 8 cups of water. Add some Kosher Salt.  Add noodles and let them cook until al dente.  Set aside and keep on warm.
2.  add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and white cooking wine to a hot skillet.  Then add all the mushrooms and bay scallops.  Season to taste. I just used the kosher salt and black pepper because the pesto is gonna kick it up a notch.  
3.  Once the scallops have turned an opaque color and the vegetables are tender, (this should only take about 2 to 3 minutes) then add the Pesto. Turn the heat down on the stove as well. You don't want to overcook the scallops. Add as much as you desire. I had a small jar so I just used the whole thing.
4. After you have the scallops and mushroom mix fully covered with the pesto, you can add your Parmesan cheese and you walnuts.  
5. Serve and finish off with a nice Gelato. 

This meal should take you approximately 25 minutes to prep and cook.  AND DON'T FORGET THE BREAD!!! I forgot the bread and I so wish that I had it because that sauce was really amazing.  

You guys try it and let me know what you think. Post your reviews to this article.

Thanks so much and ENJOY!!!!

Moody Mummy (Missing my Nana)

So yes, I have been very moody oftentimes when I am alone and can be with my thoughts. It's not all my fault.  Yes I am very much pregnant however this has more to do with how I am being treated by my family.  I am slowly trying to get over it.  But how would you feel if you were the FIRST Granddaughter having the FIRST Granddaughter. Wouldn't you think that this was a special moment that everyone should be glad in? And I know that my business isn't off the ground how I want it to be however every business takes time. And I know that people can be disappointed and upset with me however I am happy so they should be. But they never are. About anything that I do.  It makes me miss my Nana even more. 

I guess that's why this is hard. She was only alive for my eldest son, her Hershey Kiss and then she left us that summer. She didn't get to meet Jordan although his corny jokes remind me of her. And this little one is gonna be absolutely phenomenal and I really would love it if she was just here with me. I have missed her for so long. She understood me, not only as her Granddaughter, but as an Artist. I remember laying in her lap and she used to stroke my hair and I would just cry. Or how she used to make my lunches for me and packed enough for my friends Kenya and Kelly. Or how I used to sing her my Aria's and she didn't know what I was saying or in what language but to her it was beautiful.

If I could see her face to face I would love to say this to her:

Nana, I am pregnant with your first Great-Granddaughter. She has a father and a mother who love each other and her very much. And we know that it isn't going to be easy with the older children and her little self running around however we believe in each other and support each other and we are going to make this work.  I don't want you to be upset with me or tell me what you think that I am doing wrong but you would never say that anyway.  You will worry and I don't want you to. I want you to be happy. I want you to be here with me every tear, baby kick, ultrasound and craving that I may have. I am going to finish school because he supports me and isn't gonna let me quit. Plus, I am your Grandchild and quitting has never been an option. Yes, I have tried to work on the relationship with my parents however it just seems that they want perfection and everyone has trials and tribulations that they go through. For some reason my parents seem to not remember struggling or being their own person or choosing their own paths.  Aren't you glad that I'm not alone in them? I am trully blessed. We are trully blessed.  Now come give me a hug and kiss and let's cook something amazing.

This is what I would say this.  Writing this to you guys has been very therapeutic for me and I am wiping up my tears as we speak.  Pregnancy is a crazy and happy time in your life however it can be even happier with the support of your loved ones.

WHAT'S IN A NAME?? YOU DECIDE

Now that we are all excited about this beautiful doll, the next thing to do is to figure out what her name will be.  This seems to be fun and frustrating at the same time.  Why, you may ask? Well, regardless of the sex of your child you want your baby to have a strong name. You want something that when you hear it you instantly think of your child.  You also want something that is as significantly original as possible without the child wanting to change their names when they become teenagers as they feel they maybe scared for life (I know people like this, lol). Honestly, you want to say your child's name and look at them and say yes....that is exactly what they look like.

So in our research, I have looked on different baby websites. I thought back to when I was naming my sons. How I wanted them to have strong, masculine names.  I also wanted to incorporate heritage into it as well.  So with them, their first names are theirs.  Their middle names were taken from my father and my brothers.  I thought that was a nice way to honor the men in my life. But what about this little girl???

I thought of the names of the women that I love, my Nana, Shirley Ann, Lillian Ann, Patricia, Ruby, Esther.  And then I realized that the women who I have cherished all have baby boomer names.  Shirley and Ann were very popular during the 1930-50's. So I didn't know if I wanted to reach back that far.  whew lawwd, lol. My female parents Sabrina, Nadia and Serena. Wasn't really feeling those either. I mean they have really powerful meaning but I don't think they capture the fabulous one inside of me. 

So we decided on these names as some top names for our little girl and we thought that you guys should help us.  I will post the names, origins and meanings and see what you come up with.  HAVE FUN!!!


Elise - (French)  God is my oath
Raegan -  (English) Little King/Queen
Gizelle - ((French) God's pledge
Simone - (French) God is listening
Camille - (French) Perfect

Leave comments with how you would mix and match and maybe even add some different names. Remember to leave their meanings.  Thanks!!!

THE QUICK FISH FIX

Yes we have already discussed the deal on fish. I am so glad that I did some thorough research because I found out that this little girl only wants home-made food or organic.  WHAT?!?  Who told her to already be a Diva? And I don't even want to say that she is a Diva because that is so cliche.  We will call her a jewel. So when did this jewel make this decision. I mean I can't even eat a TV Dinner.  So I am still on the verge of finding things that she and I both can enjoy and that Daddy won't turn up his lip too.  So I am still happily designing creative BUMP-CIPES that won't make me nauseas.  So here is the second BUMP-CIPES that makes all of us very satisfied.  And she actually calms down.  It's funny because she is just like her parents already. A lover of good food. 

BUMP-CIPE #2

Salmon Burgers with Onion Rue, Parmesan Crusted Asparagus and Pasta Salad

This recipe only takes about 30 minutes and it's pretty simple.  Again, I don't like to measure but I am going to get better at it. I grew up using more veggies as spices vice pre-made but here's goes. 

Ingredients:

This is pretty self explanatory.  Just follow the directions on the package and you are done. I added  Spanish Olives  with a little bit of black pepper and I was loving it. 

These are a pack of Salmon Burgers that we picked up from Publix.  They were Lemon Dill and magical. All you need to do is put a large skillet on medium high and add a drizzle of olive oil.  Let the pan do the magic.

This is all I used to season the asparagus.  NOTHING ELSE!    

Even though it is packaged clean, please wash the veggies off and chop the ends off.  Roll these in the Panko Parmesan mix and place on a lightly sprayed pan. Oven can be set for 300 degrees.

THE RUE
half of an onion (chopped)
button mushrooms (about a handful, chopped)
roughly 2 tablespoons of flour
1/2 cup of water
olive oil

1.  Start with a hot sauce pan.  Add in onions and mushrooms.
2. When they start sizzling add in the olive oil.
3.  add water.
4.  lightly mix in flour to your desire. If you want it thicker remember you must add more flour and water.  Keep stirring because you don't want it to clump up.

For Dessert I had a nice pomegranate Greek Yogurt.  

Stay Tuned: Materna-Diva Fashion's. Y'all not ready (teehee!)

DRUMROLL PLEASE!!! BOY OR GIRL?!?!?!?

So I woke up Thursday morning too excited because I knew today was the day to discover what was growing inside of me. I mean I know it was a baby but was it a boy or a girl. I was still holding onto not knowing until our baby shower.  I thought it would be a really cool surprise.  But when I got to school that morning I was like, I can't do it. I just can't wait that long. I need to be mentally prepared for what is about to come out of me.  

So of course as a true beauty fashionista, I got dolled up for my Ultrasound!! Hey, don't judge me, this is the first encounter we are trully having with our child and he/she was making their big debut on the big screen.  My appointment was for 10:30a.  I was beaming all day in class.  He/she must've been excited to see me too because I couldn't really feel kicks but I could feel him/her pressing really hard against me. Kinda like he/she was ready to give me a hug.  

**PSA**PSA**PSA**PSA

***Ladies....please make sure your husband, boyfriend, significant other is present for this. This is exciting for them as well. This is something that you both have been waiting on. To be able to pick those pinks or blues.  To figure out if you'll be running to get footballs or ballerina tutus. And just seeing those little body parts on that screen can brighten anyone's day***

Okay so we get to the DOC's office and it is super crowded in there. Oh my gosh and hot. Lawwdd!! Did they forget that I had on two shirts because the temperature at my school is extremely cold.  I mean come on with the weather changes and these aren't even hormonal.  

We go back to the office and I am nervous and excited at the same dag on time (teehee!) She puts the cold gel on my belly and starts moving around. But no my little star has gotten start struck because he/she is staying in one place.  Head on the left side of my body and feet and legs on my right.  The Nurse says, if the baby cooperates would you like to know the sex.  We both say YES and all three of us laughed.  It was like they were asking us if we were innocent or guilty.  She then asks, what do you want. We both say a boy.  The reason why I said a boy is because every man deserves to have a little man in their life. I am so serious about that too!

We are looking at the pictures and see a face, legs (of course long ones), feet, the brain, top of the head, spine, stomach.......AND THEN THE PELVIS. Dun, Dun, Dun

This was the moment of truth ladies and gentlemen. He sits up in the chair. I try to lean more to the right on this extra skinny table to see if I can see anything more.   

The nurse says...Well you are the proud parents of a baby....................

GIRL!!!

Getting Down To The Fins!!

So when I went to my last appointment, I had one of the most important questions about my diet because it is important to me. What's the deal on fish? Fish is actually a big part of my diet because I am not a big meat eater and I don't consume pork.  So Lady, you want me to eat something but how are you gonna take my fish away?? This is unfair. I must call Congress or somebody....PLEASE DON'T DO THIS!! LOL!! Yes, this is what my brain was saying.  However here's the skinny...or the fishy!!

So the scoop (or the net, lol) is that YES you can consume fish.  However it is which fish that you consume and how much of it.  Now you should not stop eating fish. NO, NO, NO. Because fish contains mercury, specifically methylmercury, is absorbed in fished and can b e passed to humans.  Because of it's toximity, consumption f fish with a high mercury content doesn't need to be eaten by pregnant women. 

SO WHAT FISH CAN WE YOU EAT?

Well I'm glad that you asked (teehee!). First you should be including 1-2 fish meals in your diet per week because it helps with the brain development for your child.  This is important in the 2nd and 3rd Trimester.  

DO NOT EAT LIST

Swordfish

Shark

Kimg Mackerel (King-Fish)

Ahi Tune

Yellowfin Tuna

Bigeye Tuna

Chilean Sea Bass

Orange Roughy

Marlin

Amberjack

Spanish Mackerel

Freshwater Bass*

Albacore or White Canned Tuna

Fish carries TONS of vitamins, is a great source of protein and are very high in OMEGA 3-fatty acids which help with brain development, reduce the risk of heart disease and help prevent arthiritis.  

Now I know that this is a hard pill (fish, HA!) to swallow but Salmon and Tilapia are still very available. Along with shrimp, clams and oysters. To be sure make sure you check with your OB, Midwife or Doula on serving portions and more elaboration on fish.  And you can also check with your local seafood department and ask for a list of which fish are safe for you and the bundle of joy!!!

Who Knew!!! I'm Pregnant!!!

I'M PREGNANT!!!!!!

Yes it is a surprise to us all.  I happy one for me.  I mean really after 8 years, I get pregnant again, lol. It's funny because it seems that, at least in my case, I have love children. I think we should all refer our children as our "LOVE CHILD" because theoretically that is how they are made. At least I want to think that all children are made this way. Even through everything these little beings teach us how to love----AGAIN!!

We are 22 weeks and 3 days. And from what I have been told is that I have to lessen my carbs, eat more red meat and GAIN MORE WEIGHT!!! So tonight I am going to start this blog off with my BUMP-CIPES.  What are those you ask, well I just took the things that I like to eat and enhanced them with things that my Nurse said I needed and voila.......we have BUMP-CIPES!! And you don't have to be "with-child" to eat these meals, I'm thinking about sticking to it as long as my appetite doesn't change.

BUMP-CIPES #1

Cabbage Stir-Fry
(I don't really measure. I just use dashes of the seasonings. I like using fresh veggies as seasonings.)

Ingredients

top round sirloin for stir-fry
cabbage medley (cabbage, red peppers, carrots, summer squash
Mahatma Rice
Soy Sauce
Lowry's Seasoned Salt
Onion Powder
Garlic Powder
White Cooking Wine
Olive Oil
1 small sauce pan
1 large sauce pan

1.  Marinate the sirloin in the soy, 1 teaspoon of Lowry's, onion and garlic powder in the fridge for 30 minutes. 

2.  In the large sauce pan add 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil with 2 tablespoons of White cooking wine. Allow to get hot. 

3. Lower the temp on olive oil/cooking wine blend and add the cabbage blend.  

4.  Get water ready to boil for rice. It will only take 20 minutes fr this to cook. 

5.  Take your marinated sirloin and put it in the heated small sauce pan. This should take approximately 15 minutes to cook on medium to high heat. 

6.  After everything is finished, put rice on the bottom, sauteed cabbage blend then sirloin on top and ENJOY!!!

This Cabbage Medley is the absolute tastiest!! Cabbage, summer squashes, red peppers and carrots. Cook until steamed thoroughly.

Make sure you cook your meat until it is cooked throughout.  We don't want any Bump drama. 

FINITE!!!
(No extra sauces needed)

My thoughts:  This was my first time making this and honestly all the kicking has stopped so someone must be happy.  Finish it off with a nice Dole Frozen Fruit Bar!!! YEAH!!!!

STAY TUNED:  ON THURSDAY IS IT A BOY OR A GIRL?!?