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Our Farm is Growing AGAIN! – Wordless Wednesday

Posted by html404 on June 5, 2013
in Family Stuff, Fun Stuff, Home, Parenting, Pregnancy and Birth, Uncategorized, Wordless Wednesday

Our farm is growing AGAIN! About 8 or 9 weeks ago we got two lines! (I start having symptoms right away just a day or two late) Nope this was not planned per se and we were completely surprised. We thought our family was done with “Eight is Enough”, but God had other plans….

So far my pregnancy is going well. Nausea has been a constant companion as has the tiredness. Napping has become a daily thing. Since losing our son Matthew in December of 2004 in a second trimester miscarriage – he died in utero at 14 weeks but we did not discover it until 18 weeks when we did not detect a heartbeat – my pregnancies have been rough for me emotionally as I struggle not to worry about losing the baby up until 18 weeks. My worst fear now is a still birth, which could happen. It happens to others, why not me? It’s about the only thing I have yet to experience so I really do not completely relax until I have baby in my arms. Trusting in God’s plan for me and this little one is no easy task. I wouldn’t wish a pregnancy loss of any kind on my worst enemy. It’s a horrible thing at any stage of pregnancy because as moms we love the baby from the time we know of his or her existence.

Our older children are, interestingly enough, very excited about a new sibling. Then again they’ve also been asking for another sibling. I wouldn’t be surprised if it was their prayers that were answered regarding this new baby!

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

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Premama Prenatal Vitamin Review

Posted by 278Wife on April 23, 2013
in All Natural Products, Health and Nutrition, Pregnancy and Birth, Products for Mom, Reviews

Faith and Family Reviews received the following product in exchange for writing a review. While we consider it a privilege to receive free products to review, our reviews are our honest opinion and thoughts of the product.

Prenatal health is the number one priority for most moms to be. Choosing the right prenatal vitamin can be a challenge with all of the different options available. Sometimes one vitamin does not agree with your body so you have to switch to another. This has happened with a quite a few of the pills I have tried in the past. I was very interested to hear about Premama Prenatal Vitamin, a powdered supplement mix. Recommended by doctors, it is all natural, easy to digest, and flavorless. Ingredients in Premama have been proven to reduce the risk of some birth defects by 70% or more. These include Biotin, B vitamins, DHA Omega-3 fatty acid, Coenzyme Q10, Choline, Ginger Root, and Folic Acid. Many of these ingredients also aid with nausea and digestive relief, too.

Premama comes in a box of 30 on-the-go servings. Each sleeve is divided into two equal doses. This way you can choose to take the entire dose at one time, or break it up into two times a day. For me, it is hard to remember to take my vitamin even one time a day, let alone twice a day, so I took it all it once.

It states you can mix Premama with any juice or beverage so the first day I mixed it with water. I did not care for the texture or taste of the water so the next day I tried it with cranberry grape juice. This was much better! The more juice to mix it with, at least 12oz, the better. Simply add the entire sleeve or one part of the sleeve to the beverage and shake or stir.

Although the package says it is flavorless, I could still taste a hint of it. It is not a terrible taste, but it is a distinct taste that you get used to after a few days. I loved how convenient it was to just throw a couple of the packets in my purse for when I was going to be out of the house. I also noticed a huge improvement in my nail health. My nails started to grow very long and strong, which I have never experienced with any other prenatal vitamin. Premama Prenatal Vitamin is a great option for women who have a hard time swallowing pills, too.

Overall, Premama is a great product. Check out their website for more information on their prenatal vitamin as well as some great information on pregnancy in general.

www.drinkpremama.com

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Divine Mama Bars

Posted by 278Wife on January 4, 2013
in All Natural Products, Food and Treats, Gift Ideas, Pregnancy and Birth, Products for Mom, Reviews

Divine Mama Bars are great tasting bars designed for breastfeeding moms to maintain an abundant milk supply. They are 100% all-natural, are created with milk-producing ingredients, and have no artificial sweeteners or processed starches.

Divine Mama bars come in two different flavors, Datey Apricot Cashew and Macnut Chocolate Chip. The Macnut Chocolate Chip was a little sweeter tasting, which is why it was my favorite! The bars contain fresh ingredients such as macademia nuts, flax seeds, almonds, cashews, and apricots, which are recommended for increasing milk supply. They are a great snack choice for any mom breastfeeding, and would make an excellent gift for a new mom!

Check out their website for more information:

www.divine-mama.com

Faith and Family Reviews received the following product in exchange for writing a review. While we consider it a privilege to receive products to review, our reviews are our honest opinion and thoughts of the product.

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NEW Ameda® Intimates Nursing Bra

Posted by html404 on September 5, 2012
in Clothing, Pregnancy and Birth, Products for Mom

I have been nursing or pregnant for the past 16 years. I have tried very few nursing wear products considering the length of time I have spent breastfeeding. The products have consisted of nursing bras, a camisole/tank top and nightie. I found most nursing tops I tried didn’t fit me right, were far to long for my short frame and left me feeling quite uncomfortable. As I have stated before, I dress for comfort. It has to feel good to make me look good.

That’s why I was excited to discover Ameda has come out with a new Intimates Apparel for Nursing Moms collection.

Intimates Nursing Camisole. Shown below.

Intimates Nursing Bra. Also shown below.

Ameda has created these two products for comfort and there are other interesting features to consider as well:

· Seamless cup, no underwire

· Microfiber fabric

· Fabric is tested for harmful substances according to Oeko-Tex Standard

· It’s unique side panels adapt to the ever “evolving” shape of the mother

· The easy release clasp makes breastfeeding in public a breeze

· Comes in sizes A-J cups

· Machine washable

Both retail for $39.99 and are available at AmedaOnline.com, AmedaBaby and AmedaDirect.com.

My Review

When I put on this bra, my initial response was, “Ahhhh, it’s so comfortable!” The material is soft and it washes up nicely. It comes in five different sizes. I did find that it may run a little smaller than the size chart indicates.

It is very easy to use the clasp system, but I found the fabric elastic enough that I can even move the bra to the side in order to nurse.

The fabric is very lightweight but don’t think you won’t stop sweating simply because of the type of material it’s made of because you probably will. I know I did.

I’ve been looking for a new nursing bra since my old ones are no longer made and they are becoming a little raggy looking. That’s the thing, I have probably replaced my nursing bras every 3-4 years and by the time I need new ones my old ones are extinct. It’s really a pet peeve of mine to find a product I really like only to have it off the market never to be found again when I want it again. Very sad state of affairs for this mama.

I really like the Ameda Intimates Nursing bra and am adding it to my new favorites. It gets two thumbs up for me!

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Over The Moon – The Broadway Lullaby Project

Posted by Brande on July 29, 2012
in Books, DVDs & CDs, Encouragement for Moms, Family Stuff, Gift Ideas, Giving Back/Charity, Kids Stuff, Music, Parenting, Pregnancy and Birth, Reviews, Shopping

My daughter and I went on an inspiring and peaceful musical journey with Over the Moon – The Broadway Lullaby Project and I invite you to join us. This book and CD are not only fantastic for bed and nap time, it is very calming for adults also.

The Book – Over the Moon – The inside cover says it best…

It’s often said that “a picture speaks a thousand words,” that “music is the universal language,” that “all the world’s a stage,” and that lullabies fill the special place where babies and those who love them come together.

I’ve never read such a true statement. This 48 page hardcover book is beautifully illustrated and written by many artists, each donating their time for the Over the Moon Book and CD. The CD is attached to the back of the book.

The CD – Pop this 2 CD set of 13 songs each in your player. Sit down and close your eyes and let the music take you on a voyage. The calming flow of the music will take you and your little one away on a mini vacation. All the artists on the CD have beautiful melodic voices, including Vanessa Williams.

As is said earlier everyone has donated their time for Over The Moon-The Broadway Lullaby Project, which will raise money for breast cancer charities including the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Yound Survival Coalition.

Visit the Over the Moon Website to purchase your collaboration today! You can also visit them on Facebook and Twitter.

This is such a wonderful book and CD. My daughter and I have listened to the CDs many times and we have gotten a lot of enjoyment out of them. Perfect for a new baby or baby shower gift!

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TinyPrints.com

Posted by Brande on June 29, 2012
in Coupons, Family Stuff, Fun Stuff, Holidays, Pregnancy and Birth, Uncategorized

Need invites for your summer parties? Planning a wedding or shower? How about a birth announcement? Got a kid’s birthday coming up? I Do! Head over to Tinyprints.com for your invite printing needs. Once you pick your card, this is a very user friendly site. It walks you through each step of the card. If you need to edit, just click on it! Very simple.

Check out all of https://www.facebook.com/tinyprints

· Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/tinyprints

· Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/tiny_prints/

I will be receiving cards for posting this blog information.

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Playtex Baby Facebook Contest!

Posted by Brande on April 16, 2012
in Baby Products, Books, Contests, Diapers and Accessories, Fun Stuff, Parenting, Pregnancy and Birth, Products for Mom

How many times have you wondered… Why didn’t anyone tell or warn me about this!? I think the truth is, they/we don’t want to scare you. I’m sure we’ve all read it or read parts of the book “What to Expect When You Are Expecting”. I read the book, and NO WHERE does it say… because if you sneeze, cough, or laugh to hard once your 7 months pregnant or ove you will…I’m sure most of you know or understand where I’m going with this.

Starting today! April 16th when you answer Platex’s question “What did you least expect when you were pregnant or a new Mom?” you have a chance to win some prizes. There will be daily winners! The grand prize winner will be “flown to LA for the premiere of What To Expect When You’re Expecting. The film will feature Playtex Baby products including the Playtex® Nurser with Drop-Ins® Liners and the Playtex® Diaper Genie® Disposal System!”

Head over to thePlaytex Baby Facebook Contest and share your stories and experiences. So go! Enter! Good Luck! Let us know if you win!

https://www.facebook.com/PlaytexBaby/app_321062914616209

“I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Playtex Baby. I received a promotional item to thank me for participating”
www.momcentral.com/mcc,

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Noodle and Boo Reviews

Posted by html404 on April 13, 2012
in Giving Back/Charity, Organic, Personal Care Products, Pregnancy and Birth, Products for Mom

We all like to look good, feel good and smell good. I love the way my babies and children smell after a bath. Of course it’s because they are clean, but the personal care products we use on them play a part in them smelling good too. I tend to be picky when it comes to what baby bath, shampoo and soap we use on our children due to all the different chemical sensitivities we have experienced over the years. Plus I remember when I was younger having a reaction to different bubble baths and soaps, it’s not fun!

I love it that so many more companies are becoming aware of the ingredients they are putting into their products. Noodle and Boo is one of those companies.

Noodle and Boo – The Company and Ingredients

Noodle and Boo choose ingredients that are derived from natural resources and are certified organic (when available) and safe to use. Yay! I love it!

Their products do not contain parabens, sulfates, dyes, triclosan (new one for me), phthalates, PPG’s (another new one for me), GMO’s (Genetic Modified Organism) or formaldehyde donors. Looking good, eh?

Noodle and Boo products are made and manufactured in the USA. Another bonus! Their products are tested to minimize risk or allergic reactions and dermatologist and pediatrician tested. So the pros are in the know and Noodle and Boo has done their best to insure their products are safe for our wee ones.

Noodle and Boo – Giving Back

Noodle and Boo displays their social responsibility by giving back a significant portion of their profits to organizations like: St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Save the Children, Keep a Child Alive and Compassion International.

Noodle and Boo – The Products

We received Noodle and Boo’s Bouncing Baby Bubbles, Extra Gentle Shampoo and French-Milled Baby Soap. They came nicely packaged. But they have a whole line of products and gift items for both mom and baby/child that you can check out at their website! www.NoodleandBoo.com They even offer small samples, “try us to love us” is their slogan.

Noodle and Boo Reviews

I love the three products we received. They have a pleasant, but gentle scent, foam nicely and leave your skin smelling good! The only little thing is I think my daughter had a reaction to the Bouncing Baby Bubbles, but it does state on the back of the bottle a “common sense caution” regarding any irritation that occurs. So my sons get to enjoy all the bubbles!

Overall I highly recommend Noodle and Boo. Two thumbs up from me!

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A Favor to Ask

Posted by html404 on January 11, 2012
in Baby Products, Pregnancy and Birth

I need all of you Facebook users to do me a favor if you “like” company sites with your FB account. Check out Brilliant Baby Products. Brilliant Baby Products desire is to make parenting easier and fun! If so inclined, please “like” them and spread the word to your friends. A comment or like here and there would be appreciated too! After all we all want to share “brilliant” products, right?

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Midnight Lullaby CD Review

Posted by Brande on March 21, 2011
in Baby Products, Downloads, DVDs & CDs, Music, Pregnancy and Birth

Jane Roman Pitt : Midnight Lullaby

“Jane Roman Pitt’s Midnight Lullaby is a delightfully soothing collection of bedtime songs written by some of our genreation’s most endeared singer songwriters including Bob Dylan, Wilco, Tom Waits, The Dixie Chicks, Sade and more. In those moments when it’s time for parents and baby to retire for the night, this CD serves as something that parents and babies alike enjoy.”

“Midnight Lullaby was produced in Nashville by Grammy Award winner Mac Gayden and feature many of Nashville’s finest musicians.”

“Not only is the act of lulling children to sleep with music a pleasurable experience, but studies show that music enhances a baby’s brain development. These songs, which crossover into adult contemporary genre, have significant impact on the child’s health and well being.”

About Jane Roman Pitt:

“Jane’s introduction to music came from sneaking downstairs at night to hear the classical chamber music her parents and their friends were playing, and later by listening nonstop to folk music, pop, and jazz from all over the world. She started to play guitar at 15, and began to sing and play at local coffeehouses, college campuses, and on public television as the resident folk singer. She has a graduate degree in music history and composition, and has published her classical choral music with Transcontinental Music in New York.”

“Jane started collecting lullabies in preparation for her first grandchild. “Since the beginning of time, singing lullabies has been a way to express love and comfort. The languages may vary, but the message is exactly the same: ‘I love you very much, I’m here, and now please go to sleep!”

My Review:

Great baby shower gift! I’m also recommending this CD for people that need to relax and let their day go. When my daughter and I listened to this beautifully soothing CD, I almost fell asleep before her. The music takes you to your relaxing/happy place. If you close your eyes and listen, your there. All the songs are wonderful, however my favorite song on the CD is “My Darling” written by Wilco. You are able to listen to partial songs on her website.

www.ladylullaby.com

You won’t regret purchasing this CD.