Please, take a moment, grab a pen, and write down how wonderful your holidays have been so far. If you find yourself lacking material or constantly returning to the standard grumbles and annoyances of overstimulation and poor eating habits, remember that tonight provides you yet another opportunity to make better memories. Below, in proper fourth grade theme style, is my holiday joy journal entry:
What I Did During Winter Break
By Mumbler, age 29
I had a good time. I got to see my grandma, my grandpa, and lots of cousins who I never see any other time. I even got to talk to my aunt, which is good, because she's going to die soon. I ate some of my favorite foods, like my mom's potato soup and my grandma's turkey noodles.
Christmas morning was so special! I watched my son open up all his gifts, and he was more excited with each new box. I got a lot of things that I wanted, especially a really big travel mug. The dog loved his new rope toy. Later, my husband's family drove three hours just to see us! They brought more toys and gifts, so we opened presents again. My son got everything he imagined, and more. I got a new digital camera and a breast pump!
I served a dinner, and everyone found something that they liked to eat. The kids enjoyed the food. Most people ate at least two plates! Then, everyone helped clean up the kitchen. We played video games, watched TV, and started playing a board game before bed. We got to have a HUGE sleepover. Everyone had a bed-nobody had to sleep on the floor.
The next morning, we prepared breakfast together as a family. Our visitors packed their bags and took home leftover food. They left around 4:30 in the afternoon, and we knew they would have a rough and foggy trip. It made me think of Rudolf. We didn't want to be home in an empty house, so we went shopping. We bought almost everything on our list with our Christmas money.
For the next two days, we rested. This was a great holiday.
Wednesday, December 31
Tuesday, December 30
Baby Mania Notification #2
Baby is active and healthy, rolling around in there! We took a non-stress test last night at the hospital because I fell flat out on my belly. Luckily, there was no reason for concern. Even more serendipitously, I have a doctor's appointment scheduled for this afternoon to give me complete peace of mind. Imagine...
After a weekend of discomfort and labor symptoms (already!!!??), I finally slept through the night Sunday evening. I was not looking forward to supervising students at the concession stand last night, but I was thankful to be healthy, well-rested, and alert! I was productive around the house and actually felt good about my accomplishments for the first time in several days.
I drove to school, rocking out and eating cheese. Running only slightly late, I felt positive as I stepped out of the van, shoving my keys and cheese into my overly large coat pockets while locking the door and carrying my bottle of water with the other hand. Ever alert, I noticed a thick utility wire sticking out of the ground. Of course, I would avoid tripping over this wire-I'm carrying precious cargo! Unfortunately, the placement of the wire had created a hidden sinkhole in the exact location that I deemed safe-that carefully chosen patch of seemingly secure grass far out of danger where I confidently planted my left foot.
My foot sunk at least twelve inches into the ground. My arms went forward, but did not catch me. Water and cheese spewed from my grasp like shopping cart projectiles. I was confused, and uttered an irritated expletive as I found myself spread full-out on the ground. On my belly. In the wet, dirty dirt. If I were watching from afar, I would have let out a shocked and concerned gasp. Then, I would have watched my bulbous self extract my leg from the hole, roll off the ground, and pick up my belongings. Then, I would have laughed-heartily.
A little bit more than slightly late now, I entered the building, said hello, and excused myself to the bathroom. My jeans seemed to be the worst of the situation, so I went back to the concession stand to wait for the baby to move. After about a half hour, I was able to wake her up and feel some reassuring kicks. I paid attention to the ever-present, though ineffective contractions to make sure that they were not too painful or severe. I planned to go to the bathroom frequently to check for any changes.
As luck would have it, a friend called out of the blue to get my address. I couldn't help but share my annoying experience with her, and she (a nurse) demanded that I call my doctor. Surprisingly, I listened to her wisdom and spoke with my own nurse, who demanded I go to the hospital. Since I work in the next town over, I asked if I should go to the local hospital or my home hospital. The nurse answered, "Do you want to deliver where you are?" My nonchalant attitude began to melt away as I looked for people to cover my absence. I apologized to my students, excused myself with my supervisor, then bounced out of the building to get back to town. (bounced carefully, that is)
In all, the experience wasn't unbearable. Everything looked great on the monitors, and it was nice to have the peace of mind that little Poof is comfy in her watery home. Even the labor and delivery nurse seemed relieved to find that I was not in any danger of going into labor, though she did tell me that I was on the borderline of preterm delivery. I.e. delivery at this point would not be too terrible an idea.
Still, with the practice contractions all weekend and my fall yesterday, I decided to get off my butt and pack my bags. I have a bag of comfort items for myself, a mostly empty bag for baby to cart home all her hospital items, and an overnight bag for the kid so that he can spend the night with a friend at a moment's notice.
Your advice is needed: What should I pack in my hospital bag? (I will still add to it every day, but I have my change of undies and other essentials ready to go.) Please also weigh in on the new poll below. ;)
After a weekend of discomfort and labor symptoms (already!!!??), I finally slept through the night Sunday evening. I was not looking forward to supervising students at the concession stand last night, but I was thankful to be healthy, well-rested, and alert! I was productive around the house and actually felt good about my accomplishments for the first time in several days.
I drove to school, rocking out and eating cheese. Running only slightly late, I felt positive as I stepped out of the van, shoving my keys and cheese into my overly large coat pockets while locking the door and carrying my bottle of water with the other hand. Ever alert, I noticed a thick utility wire sticking out of the ground. Of course, I would avoid tripping over this wire-I'm carrying precious cargo! Unfortunately, the placement of the wire had created a hidden sinkhole in the exact location that I deemed safe-that carefully chosen patch of seemingly secure grass far out of danger where I confidently planted my left foot.
My foot sunk at least twelve inches into the ground. My arms went forward, but did not catch me. Water and cheese spewed from my grasp like shopping cart projectiles. I was confused, and uttered an irritated expletive as I found myself spread full-out on the ground. On my belly. In the wet, dirty dirt. If I were watching from afar, I would have let out a shocked and concerned gasp. Then, I would have watched my bulbous self extract my leg from the hole, roll off the ground, and pick up my belongings. Then, I would have laughed-heartily.
A little bit more than slightly late now, I entered the building, said hello, and excused myself to the bathroom. My jeans seemed to be the worst of the situation, so I went back to the concession stand to wait for the baby to move. After about a half hour, I was able to wake her up and feel some reassuring kicks. I paid attention to the ever-present, though ineffective contractions to make sure that they were not too painful or severe. I planned to go to the bathroom frequently to check for any changes.
As luck would have it, a friend called out of the blue to get my address. I couldn't help but share my annoying experience with her, and she (a nurse) demanded that I call my doctor. Surprisingly, I listened to her wisdom and spoke with my own nurse, who demanded I go to the hospital. Since I work in the next town over, I asked if I should go to the local hospital or my home hospital. The nurse answered, "Do you want to deliver where you are?" My nonchalant attitude began to melt away as I looked for people to cover my absence. I apologized to my students, excused myself with my supervisor, then bounced out of the building to get back to town. (bounced carefully, that is)
In all, the experience wasn't unbearable. Everything looked great on the monitors, and it was nice to have the peace of mind that little Poof is comfy in her watery home. Even the labor and delivery nurse seemed relieved to find that I was not in any danger of going into labor, though she did tell me that I was on the borderline of preterm delivery. I.e. delivery at this point would not be too terrible an idea.
Still, with the practice contractions all weekend and my fall yesterday, I decided to get off my butt and pack my bags. I have a bag of comfort items for myself, a mostly empty bag for baby to cart home all her hospital items, and an overnight bag for the kid so that he can spend the night with a friend at a moment's notice.
Your advice is needed: What should I pack in my hospital bag? (I will still add to it every day, but I have my change of undies and other essentials ready to go.) Please also weigh in on the new poll below. ;)
Sunday, December 28
7 Ways to Improve
It may work next time:
1. Pre-shopping: I hope to get a head start on Christmas shopping 2009. In fact, I've already purchased three gifts for those hard-to-please male family members. Better yet, I got in on the post-Christmas sale to buy these items at a 50% discount.
2. Organizing: My to-do list this year was FANTASTIC-thorough-overwhelming. Next year, I will prioritize the list with things that must be done, should be done, and might be done. In addition, I'll give each item a due date so that I'm looking at accomplishing two or three things each week instead of twenty.
3. Setting and Observing a Budget: With the exception of my potential shopping spree recipient, I want a clear budget for the holidays. I usually "eyeball" the budget, but next year, I want to set a specific limit for each person on my list. It will be a fun challenge to shop within the budget and stretch that cash as far as it will go.
4. Cooking Healthier: I will use the techniques I learned this year to create efficient meals for the season, but I will make sure those meals are within my diet plans. Food is great, and indulging is acceptable. However, we all feel better when we eat well.
5. Journaling: As the tree comes down and the gift receipts get shredded, I will take copious notes over what worked this year and what needs improvement for next year. I have already begun here, at the mumble, to document both my shining and shadowy holiday moments.
6. Creating a Wish List: In an earlier post, I described how the wish list was a great thing for my realtionship with my husband. To take it a step further, I have created wish lists for myself, my hubby, and our son at our family Spring Pad. We will add to it through the year, to insure that the purchaser has a variety of options to consider at upcoming birthdays and holidays.
7. Spreading the Joy: I want to find creative, rewarding ways to make the season more about giving. Do you have suggestions for worthy charities or volunteer opportunities? I'd love to create new, charitable holiday traditions for my children. Leave your comments about which giving experiences inspire you.
1. Pre-shopping: I hope to get a head start on Christmas shopping 2009. In fact, I've already purchased three gifts for those hard-to-please male family members. Better yet, I got in on the post-Christmas sale to buy these items at a 50% discount.
2. Organizing: My to-do list this year was FANTASTIC-thorough-overwhelming. Next year, I will prioritize the list with things that must be done, should be done, and might be done. In addition, I'll give each item a due date so that I'm looking at accomplishing two or three things each week instead of twenty.
3. Setting and Observing a Budget: With the exception of my potential shopping spree recipient, I want a clear budget for the holidays. I usually "eyeball" the budget, but next year, I want to set a specific limit for each person on my list. It will be a fun challenge to shop within the budget and stretch that cash as far as it will go.
4. Cooking Healthier: I will use the techniques I learned this year to create efficient meals for the season, but I will make sure those meals are within my diet plans. Food is great, and indulging is acceptable. However, we all feel better when we eat well.
5. Journaling: As the tree comes down and the gift receipts get shredded, I will take copious notes over what worked this year and what needs improvement for next year. I have already begun here, at the mumble, to document both my shining and shadowy holiday moments.
6. Creating a Wish List: In an earlier post, I described how the wish list was a great thing for my realtionship with my husband. To take it a step further, I have created wish lists for myself, my hubby, and our son at our family Spring Pad. We will add to it through the year, to insure that the purchaser has a variety of options to consider at upcoming birthdays and holidays.
7. Spreading the Joy: I want to find creative, rewarding ways to make the season more about giving. Do you have suggestions for worthy charities or volunteer opportunities? I'd love to create new, charitable holiday traditions for my children. Leave your comments about which giving experiences inspire you.
Saturday, December 27
8 Holiday Joys
I've done some things I'm not proud to admit... I've also accomplished a good deal this holiday season. Following is a list of eight things that I did this year to improve my productivity and sanity.
It worked once:
1. Freezing Christmas Dinner: I wouldn't be the first person to discuss the joys and disappointments in preparing a full turkey dinner for nine people, though I may be foolish to do so while eight months pregnant. To counteract the insanity, I began preparing casseroles and desserts weeks ago. I froze these prepared dishes and simply reheated them on Christmas day. The day-of cooking consisted of throwing some broth in the crock pot early that morning, then using the stock for the stuffing and noodles. Hubby fried the turkey-beautifully and safely. Next year, I'll just remember to defrost the casseroles a day before the meal to shorten time in the oven.
2. Layering the Christmas Tree: I have an enormous Christmas tree, and it requires some engineering to decorate. I've developed a way to layer ornaments on the tree to maximize coverage and give the illusion of random placement. Following a plan when decorating the tree allows me to delegate tasks while still maintaining some control over the look of the finished product. Everyone's happier when mom's not screaming, "NO! Put it there-not there!"
3. Foregoing the Garland on the Banister: Following my advice to another online friend, "Good enough is still enough," I decided NOT to put the pine garland on the banister this year. Why stress about something that will not get noticed? There's always next year!
4. Resting: Rather than jump right into preparations for the big day, I took a few days to relax after the long work session. I know we don't all have the luxury of taking a few days off, but even a few hours set aside for relaxation will allow you to focus on your upcoming goals. The purpose of the holiday is to enjoy time with our families, not to stress about every little detail.
5. Ignoring the Budget: I gave myself permission to spoil just one recipient this year. It was so gratifying to go out on a shopping spree and choose those things I thought he would most enjoy. I kept myself in check by sticking to budget for everyone else, but I enjoyed the liberty of imagining I had all the money in the world for this one set of gifts. I may repeat this tradition next year.
6. Calling the Groomer: I have learned that outsourcing is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of maturity. I cannot do it all, and grooming a toy poodle is definitely out of my realm of expertise. I was happier, the dog was happier, and the groomer was happy to have the business. Do you tip your dog groomer? If you tip your own hairstylist, isn't it appropriate to tip Fido's as well?
7. Creating a Wish List: Yes, this made gift opening a happier experience for all. My husband was visibly relieved as I opened and loved each gift.
8. Making SOME Gifts: For my colleagues and child's teachers, I created holiday survival kits. When looking for gifts to show your appreciation, thoughtful consideration really is worth more than trite tokens. Sure, this process took a bit of extra time, but that's part of the point. The recipients were delighted!
It worked once:
1. Freezing Christmas Dinner: I wouldn't be the first person to discuss the joys and disappointments in preparing a full turkey dinner for nine people, though I may be foolish to do so while eight months pregnant. To counteract the insanity, I began preparing casseroles and desserts weeks ago. I froze these prepared dishes and simply reheated them on Christmas day. The day-of cooking consisted of throwing some broth in the crock pot early that morning, then using the stock for the stuffing and noodles. Hubby fried the turkey-beautifully and safely. Next year, I'll just remember to defrost the casseroles a day before the meal to shorten time in the oven.
2. Layering the Christmas Tree: I have an enormous Christmas tree, and it requires some engineering to decorate. I've developed a way to layer ornaments on the tree to maximize coverage and give the illusion of random placement. Following a plan when decorating the tree allows me to delegate tasks while still maintaining some control over the look of the finished product. Everyone's happier when mom's not screaming, "NO! Put it there-not there!"
3. Foregoing the Garland on the Banister: Following my advice to another online friend, "Good enough is still enough," I decided NOT to put the pine garland on the banister this year. Why stress about something that will not get noticed? There's always next year!
4. Resting: Rather than jump right into preparations for the big day, I took a few days to relax after the long work session. I know we don't all have the luxury of taking a few days off, but even a few hours set aside for relaxation will allow you to focus on your upcoming goals. The purpose of the holiday is to enjoy time with our families, not to stress about every little detail.
5. Ignoring the Budget: I gave myself permission to spoil just one recipient this year. It was so gratifying to go out on a shopping spree and choose those things I thought he would most enjoy. I kept myself in check by sticking to budget for everyone else, but I enjoyed the liberty of imagining I had all the money in the world for this one set of gifts. I may repeat this tradition next year.
6. Calling the Groomer: I have learned that outsourcing is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of maturity. I cannot do it all, and grooming a toy poodle is definitely out of my realm of expertise. I was happier, the dog was happier, and the groomer was happy to have the business. Do you tip your dog groomer? If you tip your own hairstylist, isn't it appropriate to tip Fido's as well?
7. Creating a Wish List: Yes, this made gift opening a happier experience for all. My husband was visibly relieved as I opened and loved each gift.
8. Making SOME Gifts: For my colleagues and child's teachers, I created holiday survival kits. When looking for gifts to show your appreciation, thoughtful consideration really is worth more than trite tokens. Sure, this process took a bit of extra time, but that's part of the point. The recipients were delighted!
Thursday, December 25
Christmas Loot
After finally succumbing to my husband's pleas to write a wish list, I had a fairly satisfying present opening experience this morning. First, let me qualify my remarks with the classic disclaimer that it's not about the gifts I receive, blah blah blah. In all honesty, my real joy comes by watching others open and love the gifts I have chosen for them; a sentiment that is only slightly less selfish than concern over my own gift receiving pleasure. Of course, this joy is still rooted in consumerism and material things. I guess I have no shame. I also am willing to admit that when a person is able to share a tangible symbol of their feelings for me, I am reassured of their compassion. For that reason, year after year I have resisted writing a wish list to aid my husband in his quest for the perfect gift. I want him to guess, guess correctly, and make me feel completely adored. It hasn't happened yet, so I wrote out (clicked out is more like it) a gift request list for the sake of all. Among my requested items, here are the things I received:
A Mercy, by Toni Morrison
Nineteen Minutes, by Jodi Picoult
If I Am Missing or Dead: A Sister's Story of Love, Murder, and Liberation, by Janine Latus
Brave and Crazy, by Melissa Etheridge
Snap-on Cell Phone Cover
Long Road Out of Eden, by the Eagles
Fit and Fresh Water Filtration Bottle
SceneIt? Seinfeld
Bubba Keg 34 oz hot/cold thermos
Lindt Lindor Dark Chocolate Truffles (not 60 of them, but you get the idea)
David Cook self-titled CD (not on my list, but hubby thought I'd like it)
Knowing what I like and what others buy me for Christmas is a way for my virtual friends to get to know me better. As a bonus, I will review many of these items in future blog posts, so stay tuned!
A Mercy, by Toni Morrison
Nineteen Minutes, by Jodi Picoult
If I Am Missing or Dead: A Sister's Story of Love, Murder, and Liberation, by Janine Latus
Brave and Crazy, by Melissa Etheridge
Snap-on Cell Phone Cover
Long Road Out of Eden, by the Eagles
Fit and Fresh Water Filtration Bottle
SceneIt? Seinfeld
Bubba Keg 34 oz hot/cold thermos
Lindt Lindor Dark Chocolate Truffles (not 60 of them, but you get the idea)
David Cook self-titled CD (not on my list, but hubby thought I'd like it)
Knowing what I like and what others buy me for Christmas is a way for my virtual friends to get to know me better. As a bonus, I will review many of these items in future blog posts, so stay tuned!
Wednesday, December 24
Learning It: Spring Pad
My mind is awash with joy and good tidings. No, I'm not dancing with visions of sugarplums. I'm fantasizing every working mother's dream: an organized week, a fully stocked pantry, a ready grocery list, a scheduled family game night, a dinner planned, prepared, and eaten on time... a home space with fluidity, flexibility, and functionality. Can Spring Pad help me do it?
I've been examining the web-based program for the better part of this morning, and it does have potential. In its beta version, there are still bugs that I have squashed with the simple log-out, wait, log-in method. When it's working, the possibilities for busy families are endless. Most attractive is that Spring Pad allows users to edit tasks in one place from any computer with internet access. We may be on to something here.
On the left of the sign-in screen is a control panel allowing the user access to important information such as contacts, notes, to-do lists, and projects. Each item is clickable, editable, and movable: i.e.: USABLE. I can flag and label each task, and all the information is automatically consolidated into my agenda. Available modules include shopping lists, holiday card planners, and fitness tracking pages. However, the program appears to be fully customizable.
Welcome to my fantasy: I remember midway through my morning that I have not defrosted the chicken that I plan to cook for dinner tonight. I log in to Spring Pad, check the hours and phone number for my favorite local pizza joint, and place a new task in my To-Do list. I write down the phone number, pizza order, and desired delivery time. I then flag the item with my husband's name. That evening, when he checks the family Spring Pad before leaving work, darling husband will notice a new task assigned to him, with all the applicable information. When I arrive home two hours after he does, dinner will be waiting for me. We will sit down peacefully at the table, ignoring the voyeuristic artist in the corner who is painstakingly attempting to capture this idyllic moment on canvas.
Of course there are always problems and potential downfalls to any new system. Of course I always get ubermotivated to become organized and fill in all the blank spots in my planner at the beginning of the new year. Still I hold out hope. This program may be the answer to the classic family conundrum of merging Dad's calendar at work with Mom's calendar from work, the family calendar at home, the kids' activities, and the endless notes, lists, and maddeningly tiny scraps of paper that abound in the busy family's life. I'll keep you updated on my experience with Spring Pad. For now, check it out!
I've been examining the web-based program for the better part of this morning, and it does have potential. In its beta version, there are still bugs that I have squashed with the simple log-out, wait, log-in method. When it's working, the possibilities for busy families are endless. Most attractive is that Spring Pad allows users to edit tasks in one place from any computer with internet access. We may be on to something here.
On the left of the sign-in screen is a control panel allowing the user access to important information such as contacts, notes, to-do lists, and projects. Each item is clickable, editable, and movable: i.e.: USABLE. I can flag and label each task, and all the information is automatically consolidated into my agenda. Available modules include shopping lists, holiday card planners, and fitness tracking pages. However, the program appears to be fully customizable.
Welcome to my fantasy: I remember midway through my morning that I have not defrosted the chicken that I plan to cook for dinner tonight. I log in to Spring Pad, check the hours and phone number for my favorite local pizza joint, and place a new task in my To-Do list. I write down the phone number, pizza order, and desired delivery time. I then flag the item with my husband's name. That evening, when he checks the family Spring Pad before leaving work, darling husband will notice a new task assigned to him, with all the applicable information. When I arrive home two hours after he does, dinner will be waiting for me. We will sit down peacefully at the table, ignoring the voyeuristic artist in the corner who is painstakingly attempting to capture this idyllic moment on canvas.
Of course there are always problems and potential downfalls to any new system. Of course I always get ubermotivated to become organized and fill in all the blank spots in my planner at the beginning of the new year. Still I hold out hope. This program may be the answer to the classic family conundrum of merging Dad's calendar at work with Mom's calendar from work, the family calendar at home, the kids' activities, and the endless notes, lists, and maddeningly tiny scraps of paper that abound in the busy family's life. I'll keep you updated on my experience with Spring Pad. For now, check it out!
Tuesday, December 23
Loving It: Chiropractors
A man walks into the doctor's office and says, "It hurts when I touch my elbow." The doctor examines him thoroughly, then gives his advice: "Stop touching your elbow." And folks, it really is that simple.
I was picking up my contacts last week, and the receptionist at the store was complaining of neck pain resulting from her minor vehicle accident the day before. Of course, I recommended my favorite chiropractor, and she resisted the insinuation that the chiropractor could help ease her pain. I didn't argue, I didn't press, and I didn't call her a fool. Instead, I smiled, and thought about her touching her elbow repeatedly, experiencing pain over and over again.
Why do so many resist the appeal of natural healing? There are things we can do without pharmaceutical intervention to aid us in becoming healthier. These options are just as affective, if not more so, than traditional Western medicine. In fact, pain management and pain relief can actually help a natural healer to solve the problem that creates the pain in the first place. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs will only mask the symptoms of the underlying cause.
Of course, I know the underlying cause of the pain that led me to the chiropractor today. It's the five pound ball of flesh that is growing and pulsing rampantly between my hip bones, throwing them out of joint and putting undue pressure on my ligaments and muscles. I need a bath, a massage, and a bottle of wine. Instead, I see the chiropractor.
Since I began seeing my chiropractor eight years ago, my personal benefits include reduced pain, greater flexibility and mobility, and improved self-concept of wellness. Others agree. Still, skeptics abound, dismissing the benefits of chiropractic because it approaches wellness with a more subjective lens than traditional Western medicine. The procedures, applications, techniques, and results of chiropractic intervention are more sentient than scientific; more broad than focused; and more patient-centered than provider-centered.
The web is spinning with information about bad chiropractors, quacks, and con artists. This busy mom thinks that chiropractic animosity is just part of the daily mumble, and that we should listen to our hearts, our bodies, and our neighbors' recommendations instead. Don't go to a provider who makes you feel pressured or uncomfortable. Don't agree to any future treatments until you're sure they are beneficial in the first place. Don't think that you need to get rid of your family practitioner in order to seek alternative health care treatments. Don't keep touching your elbow if it keeps hurting; and most important, DO feel free to pursue therapeutic interventions that work for you. It really is that simple.
PS: I also love my family practitioner, who will be providing care for the baby when she arrives, as well as the rest of my family.
I was picking up my contacts last week, and the receptionist at the store was complaining of neck pain resulting from her minor vehicle accident the day before. Of course, I recommended my favorite chiropractor, and she resisted the insinuation that the chiropractor could help ease her pain. I didn't argue, I didn't press, and I didn't call her a fool. Instead, I smiled, and thought about her touching her elbow repeatedly, experiencing pain over and over again.
Why do so many resist the appeal of natural healing? There are things we can do without pharmaceutical intervention to aid us in becoming healthier. These options are just as affective, if not more so, than traditional Western medicine. In fact, pain management and pain relief can actually help a natural healer to solve the problem that creates the pain in the first place. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs will only mask the symptoms of the underlying cause.
Of course, I know the underlying cause of the pain that led me to the chiropractor today. It's the five pound ball of flesh that is growing and pulsing rampantly between my hip bones, throwing them out of joint and putting undue pressure on my ligaments and muscles. I need a bath, a massage, and a bottle of wine. Instead, I see the chiropractor.
Since I began seeing my chiropractor eight years ago, my personal benefits include reduced pain, greater flexibility and mobility, and improved self-concept of wellness. Others agree. Still, skeptics abound, dismissing the benefits of chiropractic because it approaches wellness with a more subjective lens than traditional Western medicine. The procedures, applications, techniques, and results of chiropractic intervention are more sentient than scientific; more broad than focused; and more patient-centered than provider-centered.
The web is spinning with information about bad chiropractors, quacks, and con artists. This busy mom thinks that chiropractic animosity is just part of the daily mumble, and that we should listen to our hearts, our bodies, and our neighbors' recommendations instead. Don't go to a provider who makes you feel pressured or uncomfortable. Don't agree to any future treatments until you're sure they are beneficial in the first place. Don't think that you need to get rid of your family practitioner in order to seek alternative health care treatments. Don't keep touching your elbow if it keeps hurting; and most important, DO feel free to pursue therapeutic interventions that work for you. It really is that simple.
PS: I also love my family practitioner, who will be providing care for the baby when she arrives, as well as the rest of my family.
Monday, December 22
Baby Mania Notification #1
I am pregnant with a daughter who is due to be born on January 31, 2009. Right now, she's fully developed and building up her fat stores to prepare for delivery. I'm trying to avoid building up my own, as I need to be flexible and strong during delivery.
Right now, she's kneeing me in the belly. She's perfectly positioned so as not to cause any major discomfort. There are no elbows in the ribs or head on the bladder. She's already a very good little girl, if she's a bit shy. Whenever another puts a hand to my belly, she stops moving. The doctors sometimes find it difficult to find her heartbeat, as she moves away from the press of the Doppler device. Has she inherited her father's meekness?
I've added a poll at the bottom of the page for you to weigh in on my due date. When do you think the baby will be born? Vote on a week (going past the due date is NOT an option) and give your exact prediction in your comments.
Right now, she's kneeing me in the belly. She's perfectly positioned so as not to cause any major discomfort. There are no elbows in the ribs or head on the bladder. She's already a very good little girl, if she's a bit shy. Whenever another puts a hand to my belly, she stops moving. The doctors sometimes find it difficult to find her heartbeat, as she moves away from the press of the Doppler device. Has she inherited her father's meekness?
I've added a poll at the bottom of the page for you to weigh in on my due date. When do you think the baby will be born? Vote on a week (going past the due date is NOT an option) and give your exact prediction in your comments.
welcome
What's a busy mom to do? We want what's best for our kids, and we're pulled in every different direction by the constant flow of information, information, information. When we find a solution, we berate ourselves with, "Why didn't anyone ever tell me!" It's not easy to find the important and useful truths in the sea of somewhat interesting tidbits available online.
This busy mom works full time and, like most of you, manages a home as well. And hobbies! Of course I have hobbies, not the least of which include somehow documenting the growth and development of my beautiful nine-year old son and his presumably gorgeous nine-gestational-month old sister.
As I look forward to what will be an exciting adventure with our new baby, I absolutely must organize, streamline, and collect the endless mumble in my mind to make sense of it all. Here's my attempt; I hope you enjoy the ride.
This busy mom works full time and, like most of you, manages a home as well. And hobbies! Of course I have hobbies, not the least of which include somehow documenting the growth and development of my beautiful nine-year old son and his presumably gorgeous nine-gestational-month old sister.
As I look forward to what will be an exciting adventure with our new baby, I absolutely must organize, streamline, and collect the endless mumble in my mind to make sense of it all. Here's my attempt; I hope you enjoy the ride.
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