It’s Baby Time!!!

Well, this morning’s show was my last show…for the time being anyway. The baby is due in 15 days which means it’s time for me to get some sleep and get ready for my life to change forever!! I’ve heard babies do that? 

This certainly is not goodbye- but rather thank you! I want to thank you for listening to my show, to me and my guests, each and every week for the last year. It has been a pleasure producing and hosting this radio talk show. I have met so many really great people along the way and I have been grateful to have been able to introduce to you some of the most wonderful experts and guests each week. I especially want to thank my producer- Nick Wynja- for his energy and enthusiasm each week. Nick has been with me from day one and I could not have done it without his passion and excitement. Nick- you made this show GREAT! Good luck in Kelowna BC- they are lucky to have you and I look forward to crossing paths again in our careers!

I would like to take minute to thank the sponsors that have been involved in the show. I can’t help but feel so incredibly fortunate to have had the privilege to work with all of you over this past year. Not only have you all become great friends of mine, but you provided very valuable, important information to our listeners in an entertaining, engaging manner every week. THANK YOU does not feel like enough.  You are all wonderful individuals and I am fortunate to have been so lucky to have such great people surrounding me throughout this incredible process! Thank you for believing in me and this product.

The staff at Corus Radio has also been absolutely stellar and I am so happy to have had the opportunity to work with all of them. Thank you Nathan Smith- News Director for AM980 and Dave Farough – Corus London Station Manager- for their support and for providing me with the medium for this show on AM980. It has been a wonderful journey for me and I hope to work for you both again in the future. Thank you Zoltan Haraszthy, Dave Longfield Dan Dasilva for selling the show and keeping it going from a financial stand point. I have learned so much from you guys! Thank you EVERYONE at Corus Radio London for your support and for helping me along the way whether that is from a sales perspective, programming, production or promotions. Thank you so much!!! This year has been an amazing journey for me and I thank you for this opportunity to build a radio show from the ground up!!

It’s baby time for me!!!! I’m taking some time to enjoy my new baby boy with my husband. Of course I could not have done this show without him- I love you Zoltan and I am so looking forward to having this time with you and our baby!!!! Thank you for believing in me being there to remind me that everything is always going to be okay!

I have not exactly figured out how much time I’ll be taking yet- but as much as I need and want. I promise to keep in touch and keep you posted as to what’s next for me. In the meantime- I will continue to blog on www.cherylweedmark.com and I am always an e-mail, tweet or Facebook message away!

Thank you everyone!!!! Muuuuwaaaahhhh!!!

Here are a few photos that my husband and I got taken a few weeks ago!! Thank you to Julie at Dream Catcher- who did an amazing job with them. They turned out perfectly and I have them in the baby’s room already.

Cweed

Last Blog Before Baby’s Arrival- OH MY!

By: Cheryl Weedmark

One of my greatest fears about becoming a Mom- is that I’m becoming a Mom! I know that sounds really crazy- but I’m worried that my life is going to turn into conversations about poopy diapers and tender breasts. I’m scared that the only interaction with the adult society as I know it will be in baby groups. I’m also worried that I will compare myself to other Moms asking questions like “does your baby do this?” From what I’ve been reading- these are known as ‘survival instincts’. The comparison game is one new mom’s know well. It’s pretty impossible not to notice when, say, a friend’s 5-week-old is smiling and yours isn’t. Sure- it’s normal- but it’s something I want to avoid.

I think it can also prevent us from fully appreciating what our kids are accomplishing.

Here are some common comparison traps — and how to sidestep them which I found online at www.babycentre.com

Milestone and development comparisons

Babies vary widely when it comes to hitting milestones like sitting up, crawling, and walking, which makes this comparison trap a particularly easy one to fall into.

“I remember sitting in music class, watching a 10-month-old demonstrate physical milestones that my 19-month-old was just getting around to. It was hard,” says Cianciolo.

As moms, we’re encouraged to watch for any development problems or delays and to get help right away with anything we notice. So it’s no wonder we’re constantly wondering what’s normal and what’s not.

Sidestep the trap: Research shows that as long as your child is reaching milestones within the normal range, how quickly he reaches them has no bearing on his later skills.

So if your 18-month-old says only one or two words compared to your same-age nephew’s dozen, it doesn’t mean your child won’t eventually gab your ears off.

“Milestone development has very little to do with a child’s future potential, so I encourage parents not to worry if their children are late bloomers or seem to be at the outer limits of normal,” says Darshak Sanghavi, a pediatrician who’s also an assistant professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and author of A Map of the Child: A Pediatrician’s Tour of the Body.

“It’s tempting to think that what a child does when he’s young is going to control his destiny, but everyday experiences don’t bear this out. We can’t determine a child’s destiny based on what month they started walking,” Sanghavi says.

Enjoying your child’s current skills and tricks can help ground you in the present and prevent you from fretting about the future.

“It’s hard to hear my 15-month-old niece saying more than my 2-year-old daughter. But it helps to focus on the special things my daughter does — like when we get ready to read, she gets the blanket and pillow and sets it all up, which really makes my heart melt,” says Kim Lybrand.

Finally, remind yourself that while we can certainly help our children learn new things, we can’t force them to reach milestones before they’re ready. When we attribute our kids’ development to our superior parenting skills, it can come back to bite us.

“When others noticed how well my son got around, I felt like we must have done something great to facilitate his excellent gross motor skills,” remembers Jennifer Parker. “But then I’d hear other children speak so clearly, while my son wasn’t yet talking at all, and I’d feel like such a bad mom.”

Sleep comparisons

Put two new parents together and the question is bound to come up: “Does he sleep through the night?” Unfortunately, the deck isn’t stacked fairly — some babies sleep like a dream, while others fight bedtime with every ounce of vigor in their little bodies.

It’s very difficult to handle this disparity gracefully. “When your baby isn’t sleeping, and your friend brags that her baby is sleeping through the night, you want to kill her, or at least maim her,” jokes Jenna McCarthy, author of The Parent Trip.

Sidestep the trap: Like milestones, sleep styles vary. What works for one child can bomb for another. “You might politely ask your friend how she gets her child to sleep, but this will only depress you further when you realize you’re doing the same things and they are not working,” says McCarthy.

Instead of dwelling on all the super sleepers out there, focus on finding a solution so that you can get some sleep. If your baby’s ready, you can try sleep training — either a cry-it-out or no-tears method.

If your baby’s too young for sleep training, you still have options. Ask a friend, relative, or babysitter to watch your baby so that you can take a nap, share middle-of-the-night feedings with your partner, or try these other strategies for sleep-deprived parents.

When the sleep comparison game starts, tune out or change the subject. And remember, this too shall pass.

Behavior comparisons

Our children may “belong” to us, but we don’t own their temperaments. Like eye color, many personality traits are inborn. Still, it’s hard not to shrink in shame when our kids tear hysterically around the library or refuse to meet new people.

For mom Amy Spizzo, taking her sons to restaurants triggered the negative comparisons. “Other children sat quietly in their highchairs, but my two boys behaved liked trapped raccoons. How could other kids be so content to scribble with crayons while mine were more intrigued by seeing how far they could throw theirs?” she says.

Sidestep the trap: For all you know, the calm, beribboned little girl at story time may have had a monster meltdown that very morning. “I’ve seen children who behave perfectly in public but throw huge fits in their own houses. So I just keep reminding myself that things are not always as they appear,” says Amy Oztan of the Selfish Mom blog.

Of course, you should use discipline or gentle correction when your child does something purposefully destructive, unpleasant, or dangerous. (Get discipline tips for your baby, toddler, preschooler, or big kid.)

But when it comes to your child’s personality, plain and simple acceptance is key. If you’re a social butterfly and your baby’s a shrinking violet, or if you love sports but your little one shies away from anything to do with a ball, you may have some stretching to do as you learn to understand and appreciate his particular individuality. Yet this is one of the best gifts you can give your child.

“I came to the realization that it wouldn’t benefit my daughter if I spent my time comparing her to other children. I want her to grow up with the self-confidence that she is unique,” says Shelley Hasenohrl.

Relationship comparisons

A new baby can be a huge strain on a relationship, and having a friend with a “perfect spouse” doesn’t make things any easier.

“Not once has my husband let me sleep in. Meanwhile, my girlfriend’s partner insists she sleep in on the weekends while he takes care of the baby, cleans the house, does the laundry, and then wakes her up with a delicious breakfast in bed. How frustrating is that?” says Beth Beauchemin.

Sidestep the trap: First, remember that unless you live with the other couple, you don’t know the whole story. They may be dealing with challenges that you’re completely unaware of.

Second, focus on appreciating what your partner does contribute.

“It took some self-reflection to realize that if I could forgive myself my imperfections compared to other moms, then I could extend the same consideration to my husband. Sure, some people have partners who clean the house and come home early — but they don’t have my husband and all his wonderful qualities,” Beauchemin says.

If your partner isn’t helping as much as you need him to, you certainly don’t have to just suck it up. But yelling, “Why can’t you be like her husband?” probably won’t help. For alternatives, check out our article on avoiding fights with your partner.

Homemaking comparisons

Your mommy friend’s house is clean, she makes her own baby food, and her clothes are never wrinkled. Meanwhile, your house is a wreck and you haven’t taken a shower in three days. “Why can’t I be like her?” you wonder.

Sidestep the trap: Negatively comparing yourself to a “super-mom” will only make you feel defeated and drained. Instead, spend some time focusing on your own parenting strengths when the green-eyed monster strikes. What are you most proud of?

This doesn’t mean that you can’t improve in certain areas, if that’s what you want. In that case, let your envy serve as a source of inspiration rather than bitterness.

“Learn from those moms,” says McCarthy. “Ask their advice and copy their smarter moves.” And who knows? You’re probably inspiring other parents in ways you don’t even know about.

 37 Weeks! It’s Almost Over!!!!

Your baby weighs close to 2.8kg and may be about 48.6cm long from head to toe. Your baby’s head is now cradled in your pelvic cavity – surrounded and protected by your pelvic bones. This position clears some much-needed space for her growing legs and buttocks.

Many babies now have a full head of hair, with locks up to 3.5cm long. And then, of course, some babies don’t have any hair at all. Speaking of hair, most of the downy coat of lanugo that covered your baby from 26 weeks has disappeared, and so has most of the vernix caseosa, the protective whitish substance that also covered her. Your baby will swallow her lanugo and exterior coating, along with other secretions, and store them in her bowels. These will become her first poo, a blackish waste called meconium.

Around now many women start worrying about whether they will know if they are in labour. Look no further than our labour and birth section. There you’ll find advice on everything from creating the perfect environment for giving birth to tips for birth partners.

Salt Therapy- London

585 Oxford Street East
London Ontario
Canada
N5Y 3H9

Email:

info@salttherapy.ca

www.salttherapy.ca

Salt Therapy is the first to Canada and is here in London at 585 Oxford St. at Adelaide! From over a 300 meter deep salt cave in the Ukraine, Salt Therapy has mined solid bricks of salt to build two salt rooms which are used as a natural treatment for respiratory conditions. Salt Therapy is also home to the only Tranquility Tank in London! Visit the facility at www.salttherapy.ca

Here are a few photos:

Reflexology what is it?

Cathy Brown-Swanton

Studio Wellness Clinic 

www.studiowellnessclinic.com

Specializing in Reflexology/Hot Stone Therapy/Laser Therapy

715 Cranbrook Rd. London ON N6K 3H7

519-641-2741

cathy@studiowellnessclinic.com

Technically, it’s a focused pressurized treatment done primarily on the feet and hands.  It is based on the premise that there are zones and reflexes on different parts of the body which correspond to and are relative to all parts, glands and organs.

What’s in it for you?

A very relaxing session that calms the body, releases the strain of pain and tension from stress or illness and allows the body to rejuvenate itself.  I call it R&R for reflexology and rejuvenation.  Reflexology enhances blood circulation and assists the body to normalize metabolisms naturally while complimenting all other healing modalities.

Now imagine a better sleep, renewed energy, less pain!

Now take the next step and try a reflexology session because you will be just one FOOT away from total health!

Other Guests:

www.pillarnonprofit.ca

The Community Innovation Awards highlight how the nonprofit sector’s innovation, leadership, and collaboration improves the quality of life in London and surrounding area. The Awards celebrate nonprofits and charities and the individuals, businesses and government sector organizations who work with them to make our community brighter. Individuals, nonprofits and charities, businesses and government sector organizations are eligible for nomination.

Call for Nominations 2010

Share your stories. Inspire by example. Recognize deserving individuals and organizations.

Award Categories

• Community Innovation Award

• Community Leadership Award

• Community Impact Award

• Community Collaboration Award

Both finalists and award recipients are invited to attend the awards ceremony as guests of honour.

They will also receive:

• an engraved award.

• exposure through the Pillar Nonprofit Network newsletter, website and media materials.

In addition, award recipients will receive $2500 to be directed to their registered charity of choice and their name engraved on a perpetual plaque in the Hudson’s Bay Passageway of the Central Library. If you know of an individual or organization in the London area that has demonstrated dedication, creative solutions and/or a collaborative spirit, consider nominating them for a Pillar Community Innovation Award.

About Pillar

Pillar Nonprofit Network connects close to 15,000 Londoners to nonprofit organizations annually. We exist to build capacity within this essential sector. Pillar Nonprofit Network believes that our role in developing and supporting the nonprofit sector is instrumental in ensuring that London’s nonprofits continue to be innovative and vital contributors to our community.

Share. Inspire. Recognize.

Double Happiness Project- Olsen Europe

www.olseneurope.com

Many major companies donate to charities, which is – without a doubt – a good thing. But occasionally it makes sense to initiate joint projects in order to really move things and make a sustainable, long-term difference.

“We want to empower and support women all over the world”, explains Dorothee Ingwersen, Olsen’s head of communications. Olsen is an international brand with a unique philosophy. The concepts of friendship and emotional strength play a very special role for Olsen. Fashion is perceived as a positive, authentic lifestyle. “And for us it goes without saying that we want make a contribution to society by sharing our core competence in fashion. By providing manpower and know-how we hope to make a positive and lasting contribution to globalisation.”

The actress Christina Plate is the sponsor of these Olsen projects. Sustainability is a key aim in all Olsen’s textile projects.

The Olsen project continues. Together with Plan International, Olsen is supporting a new textile project in India. The wonderful and very distinctive collection “Double Happiness India 2010″ will be available through our online shop from March 2010 and from selected shops.

The key design in the collection is the Chinese character for “Double Happiness”, which stands for friendship and partnership. And for a better world. 

This symbol will also be featured in the next Double Happiness Collection 2010.

My Pregnancy Journal

Positive Birth Stories

By: Cheryl Weedmark

We love to focus on the negative! Why is that? I find more and more that people, women; mothers feel the need to tell me their terrible, negative birth stories? In fact, at a work party one evening, a husband described their birth story as a ‘murder scene’. Gee- thanks for that. I have also learned that there are women out there that have positive birth stories and maybe are just scared to share them. I also found a wonderful group here in London I wanted to share with you- it’s called the Red Tent Circle. My dear friend Rebecca Liston- homeopathic Physician- is very involved and it’s such a great place to go to share, learn, empower and grow. Here is the contact info for the Red Tent Circle:

(519) 667-5100

www.redtentcircle.com

And here is a POSITIVE birth story that I hope you enjoy reading as much as I did!

Birth story: A drug-free HypnoBirth

by Jeni Paltiel 

Labor begins

My water broke in the morning and sort of trickled all day. I wasn’t completely sure that it had broken at first: when I woke up I was just a little wet and it was totally clear, so it took me a while to be sure it wasn’t just pee or sweat or something.

With my first pregnancy, I was in that minority of women whose water breaks with a gush before contractions ever start — and it happened in a restaurant while we were out to dinner, the scenario everyone told me not to worry about because it never happens.

This time around, I spent a lot of time alternately worrying about ruining the couch and worrying if the baby was OK as his fluid leaked out. I sent my husband with my son, Michael, off to his toddler gym class in the morning, sure I’d have to call them back because my contractions were minutes apart…and then nothing happened all day.

I wasn’t really scared, but I had that sense of excitement and anticipation, with just a little fear mixed in, waiting for something big to happen. I also felt impatient; I kept comparing my progress to my first labor, which was so quick. I cleaned the house, made banana bread, and watched Dora the Explorer with Michael. (It was the episode in which Dora’s twin brother and sister are born. That was kind of neat, although I don’t think Michael made the connection.)

Labor progresses

At 3 p.m., my ob-gyn said to just go to the hospital and get checked out. Fearing all sorts of interventions, I went anyway because I wanted to make sure the baby wasn’t in distress. We called a friend to come over and stay with Michael. Just as we pulled into the hospital parking lot, I finally felt one big gush. I don’t know if I was finally relaxing because we were about to get it checked out, or if that was just coincidence. In a moment of pregnancy insanity, I was much more worried about people thinking I had peed my pants than I was about facing labor!

The baby was fine, and the contractions started soon after we got to hospital. They were pretty light for the first two hours. They felt like a squeezing and tightening; I could feel my uterus slowly clamp down and then open up again, like the contraction was rolling across the uterus in a wave. I didn’t feel much of that with my first baby, but this time I had an hour or two of it.

Other than the bed and the TV (thank goodness for Monday Night Football), I didn’t really pay much attention to the other stuff in the room, although it was interesting to watch the contractions on the ticker tape, at least in the beginning. The staff did a nice job of keeping the lights dimmed and making sure I had socks and blankets and stuff without being too intrusive.

Managing the pain

I had used HypnoBirthing techniques [a form of self-hypnosis that relies on visualization, affirmation, and deep breathing] instead of drugs when Michael was born, and I used some of them — mainly visualization — again with this labor. I imagined every contraction was a wave and I was trying to surf on top of it. I think the techniques mostly helped me handle the pain rather than easing it, although in the beginning, when the contractions were less intense, breathing helped a bit. I wasn’t dead set on doing this birth drug free, but I kept saying, “Let me see how far I can get,” and then when I was just about at the end of my rope, the baby was crowning.

I labored most of the time on my side with the bed flat, but when things got really intense, the labor and delivery nurse suggested I try on my hands and knees, which seemed to help. She put the back of the bed into an almost-upright position and I leaned on that while I knelt on the bed.

When I dilated to 7 centimeters, the contractions got really intense. I felt cramping across the bottom of my uterus, like the worst menstrual cramps ever, except I could feel them coming on, building and then subsiding. Man, did I look forward to the subsiding! Just knowing that little break was coming kept me going at the end. Once the contractions got really intense, I stopped using the visualizations. For the last 45 minutes, I was just breathing through it, using Pilates breathing (deep, controlled breaths in through my nose and out through my mouth).

The delivery

At this point they called my doctor. As soon as she arrived, the baby was crowning. She suggested using mineral oil to prevent tearing, and I didn’t tear at all. I had to ask the doctor to give me a refresher on pushing because it had been awhile! She told me to take a deep breath, let it go, then take another deep breath and push. The pushing felt harder than in my last birth, maybe because this baby was heavier than my first.

He came out at 7:24 p.m., about three and a half hours after my first contraction. I never felt maternal exhaustion, but after he was born I felt a huge sense of relief. My ob-gyn said, “Great delivery. That was fun.” Maybe not how I would have described it, but I am pretty proud of myself (as I think all mothers should be no matter how they deliver).

 36 Weeks!

Your baby is still gaining weight – about 28g a day. She weighs nearly 2.7kg and is about 47cm long from head to toe. You may begin to feel an increased pressure in your lower belly and notice that your baby is gradually dropping. This is called lightening or engagement, and your lungs and stomach will finally get a chance to stretch out a little – breathing and eating should become easier.

However, walking may become increasingly uncomfortable – some women say it feels as if their baby is going to fall out. Also, you may still feel as if you need to go to the loo all the time. Check out our eating well guide and stock up on those last-minute nutrients.

The good news is that by the end of this week, your pregnancy will be full-term and you could give birth any day. Babies between 37 and 42 weeks are considered full-term – a baby born before 37 weeks is premature and after 42 is post-term.

Your may have noticed that your breasts are leaking a little. This is quite normal. They are producing the rich, first milk called colostrum that will give your baby a great start in life. If you feel like you’re going into labour, your doctor or midwife will check to see if the neck of your womb (cervix) is starting to open. They’ll look to see if your cervix is dilating, or widening, and effacing, or thinning.

Your midwife will be keeping an eye on what position your baby is in, to estimate how far your baby has dropped into your pelvis. This information will be entered into your maternity notes so that your midwife will know the position of your baby when you go into labour.

Other Guests:

NEXT WEEK… it’s our last live show here on AM980! Join me and my guests live next Saturday June 26th as we will talk with a reflexologist about how reflexology can help you. Maybe I’ll be lucky enough to get a live demo in the studio!! Also next week- getting a fantastic workout in the pool and all natural ways to protect yourself from the sun this summer. Plus- LOTS to giveaway! Were cleaning out the prize closet!!! We are live from 7-9am on AM980- start your weekend with us!

Tanning and Vitamin D

Learning Over the Summer

• Read with your child.

• Search for reading activities on the Internet and create a reading list.

• Plan a field trip.  Plan a trip to an interesting site close to home – an historic site, a museum, the zoo, etc.  Research the trip in advance with your child and discuss it afterwards.

• Find pen pals.  Encourage your child to write notes and letters to family members and friends as a way of practicing writing.

• Plan a meal together.  Helping mom or dad with the regular grocery shopping and meal preparation creates opportunities to use math skills such as making change, weighing fruits and vegetables, etc.  

• Visit the library.  Libraries can recommend books appropriate for your child’s reading level and interests, and many libraries offer free children’s programs. 

• Keep a journal.  Give your child an empty notebook to keep a summer journal. Regular entries will keep writing skills active.   

• Summer enrichment programs.  There are a variety of enrichment programs available for children.  Sylvan Learning offers engaging programs that keep the interest and fun in learning alive through the summer and into the school year.  Visit www.SylvanLearning.com for more information.  

• Work area – Set up a simple table or desk in a well-lit area.  Add a supply of pens, pencils, markers and paper and you’re set.
• Reference materials – Make sure you have a dictionary, atlas and other resource materials available so your child can research information.
• Your example – Parents can help encourage learning activities by example.  Read with your children.  Discuss trips and experiences.  Keep your own daily journal.

My Pregnancy Journal

My Baby Shower

 35 Weeks!

By: Tricia Tankovic

Owner Movies for Mommies London

www.moviesformommies.com

Sex and the City 2

Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda are back in an adventure that takes them to one of the most luxurious and exotic places on earth.  After watching this movie you’ll never forget how much you loved the TV show. It’s a great way to escape real life for a couple of hours and the writing will have you remembering why you love these characters. The scenery was over the top and the fashion out of this world. The characters continue to surprise and make you smile and laugh. I have read some bad reviews of this movie, but a true fan will find it true to the characters and the original TV show. It is a great film to see with the girls and real fans will not be disappointed.

Health Benefits of Infrared Saunas

By: Tantrum Sun Spa

·  Better Circulation and Increased Energy
The sauna emits FIR energy that is absorbed by human cells, causing a physical phenomenon called “resonance”. Thus the cellular activities are instantly invigorated, resulting in a better blood circulation and an overall improved metabolism. 

·  Weight Loss Aid
FIR Sauna heat therapy can aid in weight loss by speeding up the metabolic process of vital organs and endocrine glands resulting in substantial caloric loss in a sauna heat session. 

·  Maintain Cardiovascular Health
The FIR Sauna increases heart rate and blood circulation, crucial to maintaining one’s health. The heart rate increases as more blood flow is diverted from the inner organs towards the extremities of the skin, without heightening blood pressure. 

·  Speed Recovery from Injuries
For injuries, FIR generated heat stimulates vasodilatation of peripheral blood vessels, bringing oxygen to joints and extremities, speeding the healing of sprains and strains, thus relieving pain and reducing the time it takes the human body to recover from an injury. 

·  Detoxification
The quicker metabolic rate causes extra toxic waste products to be purged from the body through the skin, during perspiration. The skin is often referred to as the 3rd kidney, because it is believed to be responsible for eliminating 30% of the body’s waste. 

·  Stress Reduction & Relaxation
FIR Sauna heat treatment before a massage also helps prepare a client by creating an overall relaxing effect. It loosens the muscle tissue so the therapist can do a more thorough and effective massage. 

·  Skin Beauty
For that sought after healthy glow, FIR Sauna heat therapy allows increased blood circulation to carry great amounts of nutrients to the skin, thus promoting healthy tone and texture. A FIR Sauna heat bath also provides a mild cleansing of the skin.

·  Improved Immune System
By creating an “Artificial Fever“, FIR heat has a positive effect on the immune system. Often misunderstood, fever is a natural healing response of the body. The function of the immune system is increased naturally during a fever, while virus and bacterial growth is slowed, weakening its hold. This helps the body ward off invading organisms. A FIR heat treatment in the early stages of a cold or flu has been known to stop the disease before the symptoms occur.

My Pregnancy Journal

Stages of Labour

By: Cheryl Weedmark

Being a first time pregnant lady, I didn’t know that there were stages of labour. Maybe I should have paid attention to “The Baby Story” a little more. It wasn’t until I actually got pregnant that I started to take an interest in the actual birth process itself. FASCINATING!!! Now I understand why they call this the miracle of life? It truly is a miracle! My husband and I still find ourselves looking at each other and saying things like “ I can’t believe we are creating a human being?”. The process of labor and birth is divided into three stages:

The first stage begins with the onset of contractions that cause progressive changes in your cervix and ends when your cervix is fully dilated. This stage is divided into two phases: early (or latent) and active labor. During early labor, your cervix gradually effaces (thins out) and dilates (opens).

During active labor, your cervix begins to dilate more rapidly and contractions are longer, stronger, and closer together. People often refer to the last part of active labor as “transition.”

The second stage of labor begins once you’re fully dilated and ends with the birth of your baby. This is sometimes referred to as the “pushing” stage.

The third and final stage begins right after the birth of your baby and ends with the separation and subsequent delivery of the placenta.

Every pregnancy is different, and there’s wide variation in the length of labor. For first-time moms who are at least 37 weeks along, labor often takes between ten and 20 hours. For some women, though, it lasts much longer, while for others it’s over much sooner. Labor generally progresses more quickly for women who’ve already given birth vaginally. Keeping my fingers crossed for a short and sweet happy ending!!! Here are some more facts about the stages of labor I found at www.babycentre.com

First stage: Early labor

Once your contractions are coming at relatively regular intervals and your cervix begins to progressively dilate and efface, you’re officially in early labor. But unless your labor starts suddenly and you go from no contractions to fairly regular contractions right away, it can be tricky to determine exactly when true labor starts. That’s because early labor contractions are sometimes hard to distinguish from the inefficient Braxton Hicks contractions that may immediately precede them and contribute to so-called false labor.

If you’re not yet at 37 weeks and you’re noticing contractions or other signs of labor, call your caregiver immediately so she can determine whether you’re in preterm labor.

During early labor, your contractions will gradually become longer, stronger, and closer together. While the experience of labor varies widely, it might start with contractions coming every ten minutes and lasting 30 seconds each.

Eventually they’ll be coming every five minutes and lasting 40 to 60 seconds each as you reach the end of early labor. Some women have much more frequent contractions during this phase, but the contractions will still tend to be mild and last less than a minute.

Sometimes early labor contractions are quite painful, even though they may be dilating your cervix much more slowly than you’d like. If your labor is typical, however, your early contractions won’t require the same attention that later ones will.

You’ll probably be able to talk through them and putter around the house. You may even feel like taking a short walk. If you feel like relaxing instead, take a warm bath, watch a video, or doze off between contractions if you can.

You may notice an increase in mucusy vaginal discharge, which may be tinged with blood — the so-called bloody show. This is perfectly normal, but if you see more than a tinge of blood, be sure to call your caregiver. Also call if your water breaks, even if you’re not having contractions yet.

Otherwise, if you’re at least 37 weeks along and your caregiver hasn’t advised you differently, expect to sit out early labor at home. (When to call your midwife or doctor and when she’s likely to have you go to the hospital or birth center are things to discuss ahead of time at your prenatal visits.)

Early labor ends when your cervix is about 4 centimeters dilated and your progress starts to accelerate.

How long early labor lasts

It can be difficult to tell exactly when early labor starts, so it’s often not easy to say how long this phase typically lasts — or even, after the fact, how long it lasted for a particular woman. The length of early labor is quite variable and depends in large part on how ripe your cervix is at the beginning of labor and how frequent and strong your contractions are.

With a first baby, if your cervix isn’t effaced or dilated to begin with, this phase may take about six to 12 hours, although it can be longer or significantly shorter. If your cervix is already very ripe or this isn’t your first baby, it’s likely to go much more quickly.

Coping tips

Don’t become a slave to your stopwatch just yet — it’s stressful and exhausting to record every contraction over the many long hours of labor, and it isn’t necessary. Instead, you may want to time them periodically to get a sense of what’s going on. In most cases, your contractions will let you know in no uncertain terms when it’s time to take them more seriously.

Meanwhile, it’s important to do your best to stay rested, since you may have a long day (or night) ahead of you. If you’re tired, try to nap between contractions.

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids so you stay well hydrated. And don’t forget to urinate often, even if you don’t feel the urge. A full bladder may make it more difficult for your uterus to contract efficiently, and an empty bladder leaves more room for your baby to descend.

If you’re feeling anxious, you may want to try some relaxation exercises or do something to distract yourself a bit — like watching a movie or reading a book.

First stage: Active labor

Active labor is when things really get rolling. Your contractions become more frequent, longer, and stronger, and you’ll no longer be able talk through them. Your cervix begins dilating more quickly, going from about 4 to 10 centimeters. (The last part of active labor, when the cervix dilates from 8 to 10 centimeters, is called transition, which is described separately in the next section.)

Toward the end of active labor your baby may begin to descend, although he might have started to descend earlier or he might not start until the next stage.

As a general rule, once you’ve had regular, painful contractions (each lasting about 60 seconds) every five minutes for an hour, it’s time to call your midwife or doctor and head to the hospital or birth center. Some prefer a call sooner, so clarify this with your caregiver ahead of time.

In most cases, the contractions become more frequent and eventually happen every two and a half to three minutes, although some women never have them more often than every five minutes, even during transition.

How long active labor lasts

On average, it takes about four to eight hours for a woman having her first baby to go from 4 centimeters to full dilation. That’s if she’s not being given oxytocin (Pitocin) or doesn’t have an epidural. Pitocin generally speeds up the active phase, while epidurals tend to make it last longer.

If you’ve already had a vaginal birth, active labor is likely to go much more quickly.

Coping tips

Many of the pain-management and relaxation techniques used in natural childbirth — such as breathing exercises and visualization — may help you during labor, whether or not you’re planning to receive medication.

A good labor coach can be a huge help now, too. And you’ll probably appreciate lots of gentle encouragement.

It may feel good to walk, but you’ll probably want to stop and lean against something (or someone) during each contraction. You should be able to move freely around the room after your caregiver evaluates you, as long as there are no complications.

If you’re tired, try sitting in a rocking chair or lying in bed on your left side. This might be a good time to ask your partner for a massage. Or, if you have access to a tub and your water hasn’t broken, you can take a warm shower or bath.

If you’ve already decided you want pain medication or you’re having a hard time coping with contractions and nothing else seems to help, now’s the time to talk to your provider about getting an epidural or systemic medication.

Transition

The last part of active labor — when your cervix dilates from 8 to a full 10 centimeters — is called the transition period because it marks the shift to the second stage of labor.

This is the most intense part of labor. Contractions are usually very strong, coming every two and a half to three minutes or so and lasting a minute or more, and you may start shaking and shivering.

By the time your cervix is fully dilated and transition is over, your baby has usually descended somewhat into your pelvis. This is when you might begin to feel rectal pressure, as if you have to move your bowels. Some women begin to bear down spontaneously — to “push” — and may even start making deep grunting sounds at this point.

There’s often a lot of bloody discharge. You may feel nauseated or even vomit now.

Some babies descend earlier and the mom feels the urge to push before she’s fully dilated. And others don’t descend significantly until later, in which case the mom may reach full dilation without feeling any rectal pressure. It’s different for every woman and with every birth.

If you’ve had an epidural, the pressure you’ll feel will depend on the type and amount of medication you’re getting and how low the baby is in your pelvis. If you’d like to be a more active participant in the pushing stage, ask to have your epidural dose lowered at the end of transition.

How long transition takes

Transition can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. It’s much more likely to be fast if you’ve already had a vaginal delivery.

Coping tips

If you’re laboring without an epidural, this is when you may begin to lose faith in your ability to handle the pain, so you’ll need lots of extra encouragement and support from those around you.

• Some women appreciate light touch (effleurage), some prefer a stronger touch, and others don’t want to be touched at all.
• Sometimes a change of position provides some relief — for example, if you’re feeling a lot of pressure in your lower back, getting on all fours may reduce the discomfort.
• A cool cloth on your forehead or a cold pack on your back may feel good, or you may find a warm compress more comforting.

On the other hand, because transition can take all of your concentration, you may want all distractions — music or conversation or even that cool cloth or your partner’s loving touch — eliminated.

It may be useful to focus on the fact that those hard contractions are helping your baby make the journey out into the world. Try visualizing his movement down with each contraction.

The good news is that if you’ve made it this far without medication, you can usually be coached through transition — one contraction at a time — with constant reminders that you’re doing a great job and that the end is near.

Second stage: Pushing

Once your cervix is fully dilated, the work of the second stage of labor begins: the final descent and birth of your baby. At the beginning of the second stage, your contractions may be a little further apart, giving you the chance for a much-needed rest between them.

Many women find their contractions in the second stage easier to handle than the contractions in active labor because bearing down offers some relief. Others don’t like the sensation of pushing.

If your baby’s very low in your pelvis, you may feel an involuntary urge to push early in the second stage (and sometimes even before). But if your baby’s still relatively high, you probably won’t have this sensation right away.

As your uterus contracts, it exerts pressure on your baby, moving him down the birth canal. So if everything’s going well, you might want to take it slowly and let your uterus do the work until you feel the urge to push. Waiting a while may leave you less exhausted and frustrated in the end.

In many hospitals, however, it’s still routine practice to coach women to push with each contraction in an effort to speed up the baby’s descent — so let your caregiver know if you’d prefer to wait until you feel a spontaneous urge to bear down.

If you have an epidural, the loss of sensation can blunt the urge to push, so you may not feel it until your baby’s head has descended quite a bit. Patience often works wonders. In some cases, though, you’ll eventually need explicit directions to help you push effectively.

Your baby’s descent

The descent may be rapid or, especially if this is your first baby, gradual.

With each contraction, the force of your uterus — combined with the force of your abdominal muscles if you’re actively pushing — exerts pressure on your baby to continue to move down through the birth canal. When a contraction is over and your uterus is relaxed, your baby’s head will recede slightly in a “two steps forward, one step back” kind of progression.

Try different positions for pushing until you find one that feels right and is effective for you. It’s not unusual to use a variety of positions during the second stage.

The first glimpse

After a time, your perineum (the tissue between your vagina and rectum) will begin to bulge with each push, and before long your baby’s scalp will become visible — a very exciting moment and a sign that the end is in sight. You can ask for a mirror to get that first glimpse of your baby, or you may simply want to reach down and touch the top of his head.

Now the urge to push becomes even more compelling. With each contraction, more and more of your baby’s head becomes visible. The pressure of his head on your perineum feels very intense, and you may notice a strong burning or stinging sensation as your tissue begins to stretch.

At some point, your caregiver may ask you to push more gently or to stop pushing altogether so your baby’s head has a chance to gradually stretch out your vaginal opening and perineum. A slow, controlled delivery can help keep your perineum from tearing. By now, the urge to push may be so overwhelming that you’ll be coached to blow or pant during contractions to help counter it.

How the head emerges

Your baby’s head continues to advance with each push until it “crowns” — the time when the widest part of his head is finally visible. The excitement in the room will grow as your baby’s face begins to appear: his forehead, his nose, his mouth, and, finally, his chin.

After your baby’s head emerges, your doctor or midwife will suction his mouth and nose and feel around his neck for the umbilical cord. (No need to worry. If the cord is around his neck, your caregiver will either slip it over his head or, if need be, clamp and cut it.)

His head then turns to the side as his shoulders rotate inside your pelvis to get into position for their exit. With the next contraction, you’ll be coached to push as his shoulders emerge, one at a time, followed by his body.

Out at last!

Once your baby hits the atmosphere, he needs to be kept warm and will be dried off with a towel. Your doctor or midwife may quickly suction your baby’s mouth and nasal passages again if he seems to have a lot of mucus.

If there are no complications, he’ll be lifted onto your bare belly so you can touch, kiss, and simply marvel at him. The skin-to-skin contact will keep your baby nice and toasty, and he’ll be covered with a warm blanket — and perhaps given his first hat — to prevent heat loss.

Your caregiver will clamp the umbilical cord in two places and then cut between the two clamps — or your partner can do the honors.

You may feel a wide range of emotions now: euphoria, awe, pride, disbelief, excitement (to name but a few), and, of course, intense relief that it’s all over. Exhausted as you may be, you’ll also probably feel a burst of energy, and any thoughts of sleep will vanish for the time being.

How long the second stage lasts

The entire second stage can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Without an epidural, the average duration is close to an hour for a first-timer and about 20 minutes if you’ve had a previous vaginal delivery. If you have an epidural, the second stage generally lasts longer.

Third stage: Delivering the placenta

Minutes after giving birth, your uterus begins to contract again. The first few contractions usually separate the placenta from your uterine wall.

When your caregiver sees signs of separation, she may ask you to gently push to help expel the placenta. This is usually one short push that’s not at all difficult or painful.

How long the third stage lasts

On average, the third stage of labor takes about five to ten minutes.

After delivery: Now what?

After you deliver the placenta, your uterus should contract and get very firm. You’ll be able to feel the top of it in your belly, around the level of your navel.

Your caregiver, and later your nurse, will periodically check to see that your uterus remains firm, and massage it if it isn’t. This is important because the contraction of the uterus helps cut off and collapse the open blood vessels at the site where the placenta was attached. If your uterus doesn’t contract properly, you’ll continue to bleed profusely from those vessels.

If you’re planning to breastfeed, you can do so now if you and your baby are both willing. Not all babies are eager to nurse in the minutes after birth, but try holding your baby’s lips close to your breast for a little while. Most babies will eventually begin to nurse in the first hour or so after birth if given the chance.

Early nursing is good for your baby and can be deeply satisfying for you. What’s more, nursing triggers the release of oxytocin, the same hormone that causes contractions, which helps your uterus stay firm and well contracted.

If you’re not going to nurse or your uterus isn’t firm, you’ll be given oxytocin to help it contract. (Some providers routinely give it to all women at this point). If you’re bleeding excessively, you’ll be treated for that as well.

Your contractions at this point are relatively mild. By now your focus has shifted to your baby, and you may be oblivious to everything else going on around you.

If this is your first baby, you may feel only a few contractions after you’ve delivered the placenta. If you’ve had a baby before, you may continue to feel occasional contractions for the next day or two.

These so-called afterbirth pains can feel like strong menstrual cramps. If they bother you, ask for pain medication. You may also have the chills or feel very shaky. This is perfectly normal and won’t last long. Don’t hesitate to ask for a warm blanket if you need one.

Your caregiver will examine the placenta to make sure it’s all there. Then she’ll check you thoroughly to spot any tears that need to be stitched.

If you tore or had an episiotomy, you’ll get an injection of a local anesthetic before being sutured. You may want to hold your newborn while you’re getting stitches — it can be a great distraction. If you’re feeling too shaky, ask your partner to sit by your side and hold your new arrival while you look at him.

If you had an epidural, an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will come by and remove the catheter from your back. This takes just a second and doesn’t hurt.

Unless your baby needs special care, be sure to insist on some quiet time together. The eyedrops and vitamin K can wait a little while. You and your partner will want to share this special time with each other as you get acquainted with your new baby and revel in the miracle of his birth.

 34 Weeks!

Your baby now weighs more than 2.2kg and is 45cm from top to toe. She’s filling out and getting rounder – she’ll need her fat layers later to regulate her body temperature.

If you don’t already talk to your baby, this is a good time to start – at 35 weeks her hearing is fully developed. Don’t feel ridiculous if you’re already chatting in baby talk. Some evidence shows that newborns pay closer attention to high-pitched tones.

If you’ve been nervous about going into premature labour, you’ll be happy to know that 99 per cent of babies born at week 35 can survive outside the uterus (womb) – and most have no major problems. Although your baby’s central nervous system is still maturing, her lungs are nearly fully developed by now.

Many women start to notice a tingling sensation or numbness in the pelvic region or pain as they walk. This may be caused by the pelvic joints loosening, ready for labour. If you’re in pain or hips are sore, mention it to your midwife or doctor and check out our self-help tips. 

Other Guests:

Next week on the show…. Gone are the days of having to take a day off work to have a trades person come into your home. We will talk about how Finan Home Service is making things convenient…finally. Also next week-  find out the best time of day to work out to burn the most calories and Fisher and Company helps us spot quality when shopping for clothes- what to look for on buttons, zippers and even the garment lining. PLUS- I will post some pictures from my baby shower which my friends and family are throwing me tomorrow!!!! Can’t wait!!!

Sisters REALLY do ‘do’ everything together!!!

By: Cheryl Weedmark

I’ve mentioned in previous blogs that my sister and I are both pregnant- 10 days apart!!!!! This past May long weekend- we were together for the first time since Christmas. The babies met and we had the BEST time together!!!! I am SO lucky to have her to go through this with. Here are a few pictures of us together and some from her baby shower which I threw at my Moms place in Ottawa. These are the moments you cherish FOREVER!!!

This morning my husband and I are going to get our belly shots (http://www.dcpcanada.com/) Check back next week- I’ll post some of the proofs!

Matching outfits already??

The babies meet for the first time!

Signs of Labor

By: Cheryl Weedmark

We are getting closer and closer to the big day. I was thinking the other day- “how will I even know if I am in labor?” This is probably something that I should be aware of- right? And so the internet surfing began and the reading continued. I have lots of questions!!!! Most of which were answered in my Birth by Design Classes a couple of weeks ago. (www.babeezeinarms.com)

But there are some remaining questions……

Is there any way to predict when I’m going to go into labor?

Not really. Experts don’t fully understand what triggers the onset of labor, and there’s no way to predict exactly when it will start.

Your body actually starts preparing for labor up to a month before you give birth. You may be blissfully unaware of what’s going on — or you may begin to notice new symptoms as your due date draws near. Here are some things that may happen in the weeks or days before labor starts:

Your baby “drops.”
If this is your first pregnancy, you may feel what’s known as “lightening” a few weeks before labor starts. You might detect a heaviness in your pelvis as this happens and notice less pressure just below your ribcage, making it easier to catch your breath.

You note more Braxton Hicks contractions.
More frequent and intense Braxton Hicks contractions can signal pre-labor, during which your cervix ripens (see below) and the stage is set for true labor. Some women experience a crampy, menstrual-like feeling during this time.

Sometimes, as true labor draws near, Braxton Hicks contractions become relatively painful and strike as often as every ten to 20 minutes, making you wonder whether true labor has started. But if the contractions don’t get longer, stronger, and closer together and cause your cervix to dilate progressively, then what you’re feeling is probably so-called false labor.

Your cervix starts to ripen.
In the days and weeks before delivery, Braxton Hicks contractions may do the preliminary work of softening, thinning, and perhaps opening your cervix a bit. (If you’ve given birth before, your cervix is more likely to dilate a centimeter or two before labor starts, but keep in mind that even being 40 weeks pregnant with your first baby and 1 centimeter dilated is no guarantee that labor is imminent.)

When you’re at or near your due date, your practitioner may do a vaginal exam during your prenatal visit to see whether your cervix has started to change.

You pass your mucus plug or notice “bloody show.”
You may pass your mucus plug — the small amount of thickened mucus that has sealed your cervical canal during the last nine months — if your cervix begins to dilate as you get close to labor.

The plug may come out in a lump or as increased vaginal discharge over the course of several days. The mucus may be tinged with brown, pink, or red blood, which is why it’s referred to as “bloody show.” Having sex or a vaginal exam can also disturb your mucus plug and cause you to see some blood-tinged discharge, even when labor isn’t going to start in the next few days.

Your water breaks.
When the fluid-filled amniotic sac surrounding your baby ruptures, fluid leaks from your vagina. And whether it comes out in a large gush or a small trickle, you should call your doctor or midwife.

Most women start having regular contractions before their water breaks, but in some cases, the water breaks first. When this happens, labor usually follows soon. If you don’t start having contractions on your own within a certain amount of time, you’ll need to be induced, since your baby’s more likely to get an infection without the amniotic sac’s protection against germs.

How can I tell whether my labor has actually started?

It’s often not possible to pinpoint exactly when “true” labor begins because early labor contractions might start out feeling like the Braxton Hicks contractions you may have been noticing for weeks.

It’s likely that labor is under way, however, when your contractions become increasingly longer, stronger, and closer together. They may be as far apart as every ten minutes or so in the beginning, but they won’t stop or ease up no matter what you do. And in time, they’ll become more painful and closer together.

In some cases, though, the onset of strong, regular contractions comes with little or no warning. It’s different for every woman and with every pregnancy.

When should I call my doctor or midwife?

Toward the end of your pregnancy, your practitioner should give you a clear set of guidelines for when to let her know that you’re having contractions and at what point she’ll want you to go to the hospital or birth center.

These instructions will depend on your individual situation — whether you have pregnancy complications or are otherwise considered high-risk, whether this is your first baby, and practical matters like how far you live from the hospital or birth center — as well as on your caregiver’s personal preference (some prefer an early heads-up).

If your pregnancy is uncomplicated, she’ll probably have you wait to come in until you’ve been having contractions that last for about a minute each, coming every five minutes for about an hour. (You time a contraction from the beginning of one to the beginning of the next one.) As a rule, if you’re high-risk, she’ll want to hear from you earlier in labor.

Don’t be afraid to call if the signs aren’t clear but you think the time may have come. Doctors and midwives are used to getting calls from women who aren’t sure whether they’re in labor and need guidance. It’s part of their job.

And the truth is, your caregiver can tell a lot by the sound of your voice, so verbal communication helps. She’ll want to know how close together your contractions are, how long each one lasts, how strong they are (she’ll note whether you can talk through a contraction), and any other symptoms you may have.

Finally, whether or not your pregnancy has been problem-free up to now, and whether or not you think you might be in labor, be sure to call your caregiver right away (and if you can’t reach her, head for the hospital) in the following situations:

• Your water breaks or you suspect that you’re leaking amniotic fluid. Tell your practitioner if it’s yellow, brown, or greenish, because this signals the presence of meconium, your baby’s first stool, which is sometimes a sign of fetal stress. It’s also important to let her know if the fluid looks bloody.

• You notice that your baby is less active.

• You have vaginal bleeding (unless it’s just bloody show — mucus with a spot or streak of blood), constant severe abdominal pain, or fever.

• You start having contractions before 37 weeks or any other signs of preterm labor.

• You have severe or persistent headaches, vision changes, intense pain or tenderness in your upper abdomen, abnormal swelling, or any other symptoms of preeclampsia.

Some women assume that various symptoms are just part and parcel of being pregnant, while others worry that every new symptom spells trouble. Knowing which pregnancy symptoms you should never ignore can help you decide when to call your caregiver.

That said, every pregnancy is different and no list can cover all situations, so if you’re not sure whether a symptom is serious, or if you just don’t feel like yourself or are uneasy, trust your instincts and call your healthcare provider. If there’s a problem, you’ll get help. If nothing’s wrong, you’ll be reassured.

 33 Weeks!

Your baby now weighs about 4.2 pounds / 2 kilograms and measures approximately 17 inches/ 44 centimetres from head to toe. Your baby should already be getting ready for delivery by turning upside-down — his head should be pointing down.

Your doctor or midwife will be paying careful attention to your baby’s position in the coming weeks — some babies do decide to turn back round again.

Your baby’s skull is still quite pliable and not completely joined, in part so he can ease out of the relatively narrow birth canal. But the bones in the rest of his body are hardening. Your baby’s skin is also gradually becoming less red and wrinkled.

If you’re a first-time mother, your child’s head may move into the pelvis this week and press firmly against your cervix. (This happens for about half of all first-time mothers.) If you’re a second-time mum, you can expect this to happen a week before labour — and for some this won’t happen until the start of labour. Hoping to manage your labour naturally? Here’s all you need to know about natural pain relief.

You may notice that your feet and ankles are quite swollen by the end of the day. Water retention, also known as oedema, is often worse in warm weather and late in the day. Surprisingly, keeping hydrated helps reduce water retention. Your body — particularly your kidneys — and your baby need plenty of fluids, so drink up. If you suddenly feel swollen or puffy in your hands or face, however, call your doctor — it may be a sign of pre-eclampsia. 

Other Guests:

Childbirth Education Classes

Our “Birth by Design” classes were so incredible last weekend!!!! Its funny- we had been warned by many of our friends that they were ‘boring’ and full of useless information which they never retained for the actual birth itself. They should have taken Jill’s “Birth By Design” at Babeeze in Arms Doula Centre!

The experience is hard to describe. My husband and I both agree that we are MUCH better prepared for the birth of our son and we met some wonderful couples who shared our thoughts on birth practices. In fact- two of the couples were having a home birth which was very refreshing to learn. Only 1% of births are done in the home today compared to a much higher number many years ago. Lucas and Erika are hoping for a home birth in a birthing tub; Mike and Megan are also planning a home birth and have the same midwives as we do. Sabrina and Steve are hoping for a natural birth in the hospital- just like my husband and I. I can’t wait to share our birth stories in a couple of months!

I think the most beneficial part of the weekend was learning the different pain coping comforts. I don’t know that I would have been able to think of these things myself- likely not. Jill walked us through and had us practice the methods with our husbands so they were also comfortable with them. Some of my favorites are dangling; using the birthing ball and aromatherapy. But I plan to try each one.

Most importantly- my questions were answered and I feel very confident in my abilities as a woman to have a natural delivery when the day arrives. We came home on Sunday night and started packing our hospital bag to make sure we had everything we needed to get through all the stages. And I’m going to make my ‘labour-aid’ drink and freeze it –ready to grab as we head out the door!!! (Labour-aid is an energy drink for the woman to stay hydrated and energized which is VERY important throughout the process)

Labor-Aid Drink

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

1/3 cup honey (or to taste)

1/4 tsp sea salt

2 calcium/magnesium tablets, crushed

water to make 4 cups

My husband spent some time wearing the empathy belly which was quite funny! They use this to give the partner an idea of what their pregnant spouse is dealing with on a day to day basis carrying around all of this weight!!!

And we can’t forget about what to do with the baby once he/she is born? The classes also touched quite a bit on post partum along with breastfeeding. Who knew that the baby’s stomach is the size of a marble when they are born? We were also taught a baby comforting measure- swaddling.

Overall- I would recommend “Birth by Design” to anyone that is looking to learn more about the birth process and the way it was intended. I find myself getting a little excited to experience it and of course- meet out little jelly bean for the first time!!!!

 32 Weeks!

Your baby now weighs about 1.7kg and is around 42cm long from head to toe. Although his lungs won’t be fully developed until just before birth, your little one is inhaling amniotic fluid to exercise his lungs. From 32 weeks, babies born early have good chance of surviving and thriving.

Some babies have a head of hair already, others have only a few wisps. Thick hair at birth doesn’t necessarily mean thick hair later on, but children with fine hair in childhood usually grow up to have fine hair, too.

If your baby is a boy, his testicles should have descended from his abdomen into his scrotum. Sometimes, however, one or both testicles won’t move into position until after birth. In two thirds of all baby boys who have undescended testicles at birth, the condition corrects itself by their first birthday.

You’re probably gaining 450g a week, largely because your baby is likely to gain more than half his birthweight during the seven weeks before birth. Make sure you are eating well in these last few weeks.

Your bump will be getting quite big now, and you may find it attracts a lot of attention!

THE COVE

The Cove

The Cove exposes the slaughter of more than 20,000 dolphins and porpoises off the coast of Japan every year, and how their meat, containing toxic levels of mercury, is being sold as food in Japan and other parts of Asia, often labeled as whale meat. The majority of the world is not aware this is happening.  The focus of the Social Action Campaign for The Cove is to create worldwide awareness of this annual practice as well as the dangers of eating seafood contaminated with mercury and to pressure those in power to put an end to the slaughter.

And it’s been working. The film has been making waves since it premiered last year. Critical praise and audience awards worldwide have focused international attention on Taiji and the annual dolphin drives off the coast of Japan.  Under intense pressure, Taiji called for a temporary ban on killing bottlenose dolphins. The film, which was originally rejected, was shown at the Tokyo Film Festival due to public outcry. Residents in Taiji are being tested for mercury poisoning, and for the first time Japanese media are covering the issue.


Close to a million people have signed on to the campaign, but this is just the beginning. The fisherman are clearly rattled, but haven’t stopped killing dolphins.

 TakePart now to help shut down the cove for good.

Click here to HELP NOW!

http://www.takepart.com/thecove

Other Guests:

For those that don’t know- I am also co-hosting Daytime on Rogers TV here in London alongside Darrin Laidman from Fresh FM. I just LOVE being back on television and I love working with such a hard working bunch of people. Between my co-host Darrin, the producer Andrew and the staff of volunteers that work so hard everyday- I just love every minute of it. I especially love the community connection Rogers TV has with it’s London viewers. This week we were live on location at the Western Fair Agriplex- had a blast. SLOME began in 2000 as an expansion of Skills Elgin, which held construction competition for grade 7/8 students in 1998 and 1999.The organization and growth of the event has been steady as additional partners enter into the project. This year- more than 4000 students attended!

Here are a few photo’s from the show- we had so much fun!

Hanging with the Ontario Pork Industry

The noodle contest- but not really a contest!

And the construction contest- again, not really:)

My Pregnancy Journal

Childbirth Education Classes

Childbirth classes- here we come!!! And hopefully those in the class with us don’t mind questions! My husband and I like to ask allot of questions- okay- well my husband likes to ask allot of questions. Choosing pre-natal classed was a big decision for us especially because we see a midwife and wanted to make sure that the information we were interested in hearing about, was covered. I heard about Babeeze In Arms and their Lamaze Birth, Baby and Beyond classes. Their classes are based on the   Lamaze Philosophy of Birth which is: 

• Birth is normal, natural and healthy. 
• The experience of birth profoundly affects women and their families. 
• Women’s inner wisdom guides them through birth. 
• Women’s confidence and ability to give birth is either enhanced or diminished by the care provider and place of birth. 
• Women have the right to give birth free from routine medical interventions.
• Birth can safely take place in homes and hospitals.
• Childbirth education empowers women to make informed choices in health care, to assume responsibility for their health and to trust their inner wisdom.

This was perfect for us- as it encompassed everything we believe in and want out child birth experience to be. The classes include prenatal information packet, pregnancy journal, ongoing support and complimentary postpartum breastfeeding consultation after the birth of your baby. Check back next week as I am going to blog about the experience and may even post some pictures. Perhaps you are looking for the same kind of approach- I hope this info helps! Below is the course outline that we were given in advance.

Lamaze Course Topic List:

1. Introduction and Overview – introduce trainers, Lamaze philosophy of birth , History of birth and current birth culture
2. Course overview
3. Participant Introductions’
4. This series will be a success if…
5. Rights of Childbearing Women and CIMS 10 Questions
6. Roles in labour
7. Sympathy Belly – Normal changes during pregnancy, physiology and anatomy of pregnancy, partner support
8. Kegels
9. Exercises for Pregnancy
10. Optimal Fetal Positioning
11. Positions for OFP
12. Emotional Changes of Pregnancy
13. Preterm Labour
14. Normal Birth Visualization – Lamaze 6 care practices
15. Closing exercise and evaluation
16. Review and opening
17. Belly Mapping
18. Aromatherapy
19. Signs of Labour
20. Normal labor – DVD
21. Dilatation and effacement
22. Stages of Labour – Early, Active Transition, Pushing, Placenta
23. Spontaneous Pushing
24. Fears
25. Hand massage
26. Pain/Stress self assessment homework

1. Review homework – Pain/stress self-assessment
2. Role of pain in labour
3. Comfort measures
4. Relaxation, rhythm and ritual- 3Rs Movie
5. Pain medication and intervention
6. Ice exercise and breathing
7. Evaluation – I liked, I wished, I hope…

1. Welcome Back – Review using Roadmap of Labour
2. Creating Your Birthing Space
3. Giving Affirmation
4. Birth Day by Layers (Cesarean Birth)
5. Reasons for Cesarean
6. Positively Getting to Cesarean
7. Making Choices
8. Hopes and Wish List for Birth and Postpartum (Birth and Postpartum Plan)
9. Using Your BRAIN – Informed consent
10. Positive Birth – Birth Memories

1. Breastfeeding Café 1
2. Breastfeeding Café 2
3. Your Beautiful Baby’s Amazing Talents
4. Amazing Talents – Dealing with Unexpected Outcomes
5. Life With a New Baby – Dealing with Postpartum Mood Disorders
6. Parenting for You – Parenting Stations Folder
7. Postpartum Basket
8. Closing – Saying Goodbyes and Final Evaluation

 31 Weeks!

31 weeks

Your baby’s arms, legs and body continue to fill out — and they are finally proportional in size to her head. She weighs about 3.3 pounds/1.5 kilograms and looks more like a newborn. She measures about 16 inches/ 41 centimetres from crown to toe.

You may notice your baby isn’t moving around as much. Don’t worry; she’s just running out of space in your uterus. As long as you can feel her squirming, you’ll know she’s just fine. Believe it or not, she still has plenty of growing to do. You can expect her to gain at least two more pounds/900 grams before delivery.

Your baby’s organs are continuing to mature and she is passing water from her bladder: good practice for the urinating she’ll do after she’s born. Soon you can wonder what your baby is wishing for — brain scans have shown that fetuses have periods of dream sleep around month eight.

You’ve probably gained three to four pounds / 1.3 to 1.8 kilograms this month. Gaining a pound/450 grams a week is quite normal during the last trimester as your baby has a final growth spurt before birth.

DeVog Salon Services

By Darci Armstrong

Darmstrong@devog.com

Both the Clinic and Apprentice Salons are open to the public with greatly reduced prices.

Please call  (519) 439-8540   to book an appointment or consultation.

Cuts- this season is calling for more structured styles, when it comes to short hair. Bold cuts with sharp lines and a clear shape are popular. For longer hair we are still seeing a lot of soft silhouettes with plenty of layers.

Colors- summer is the season for color, multi-tonal highlights that run close to your natural pigment are ideal. The trick to color this season is to keep it believable even if your color blocking the tones are very close together level wise. Some popular colors are soft to med beige tones and golden blonds, caramel to warm brown.

Styles- when it comes to styling, soft bouncy hair is very now. Almost a “natural dry” look.  Manipulating the hair around the head during dry time will help smooth frizz and maximize volume.

Here are some products I recommend to keep your hair looking its best…

Humidity Blocker

Forms a weightless, invisible protective shield around the hair to lock out moisture and eliminate frizz as well as prevent styles from collapsing or becoming out of control. This product also reduces blow dry time when used in wet hair. It is important to use this product thoroughly through the hair to avoid an uneven result.

Erratic Molding Clay

Natural clay paste. Mostly used  for texture, to define pieces of hair and or separate curls. Its a non gritty pliable formula with the ability to be used dry or wet. Just work erratic through your hands to warm the product up and apply through the hair in desired style.

K-pac liquid re constructor

Intense leave-in reconstructing liquid protein spray offers fine hair strength, shine, and support without weighing the hair down. Great alternative for people who avoid conditioner bc they are afraid it will weigh their hair down.

K-pac color therapy restorative styling oil

This product is new, it strengthens, protects and repairs the hair. It’s everything it claims to be. The oil can be used as a treatment, and styling product pre and post blow dry. The oil controls frizz, protects hair from UV rays, any thermal styling.  As an added bonus it reduces styling time.

Color Endure Shampoo & Conditioner

It is important to protect and preserve your color from color fading and tonal loss with at home care. Color endure gently cleanse the hair while protecting the vibrancy and longevity of color treated hair with out disturbing the color molecules. Light weight conditioner assist in long lasting color shine and strength.

Other Guests:

NEXT WEEK- We have a very special show for you today. A few months ago my husband and I sat down to watch the documentary The Cove- which won best feature documentary at The Oscars in 2009 among so many other awards as well. If you haven’t seen it- I really encourage you to buy it and watch it. The movie follows a team of activists, filmmakers and free-divers as they take us closer to a hidden cove in Japan, uncovering how this small village serves as the location for massive ecological crimes happening worldwide when it comes to the dolphins and the thousands among thousands that are being slaughtered there everyday. Gina Papabeis is a Team Coordinator with Oceanic Preservation Society and worked on this documentary “The Cove” and will join me to talk about the documentary and what they are working on now! Don’t miss it!!!!

Preparing for Childbirth Classes

We are getting ready for our Childbirth classes at “Babeeze in Arms Doula Centre” next weekend and part of the reason why we are taking classes is to create our birth plan. For months, I have been reading about creating a birth plan- but wasn’t really sure what that plan would include. I will be blogging about this over the next couple of weeks as I feel it’s a really important part of the whole process- could be the most important at the end of the day if it means delivering the baby the way you imagined. I found this article on www.babycenter.com which really helped my husband and I start thinking and talking about our birth plan. It certainly will get you started having the conversations that need to happen at this point in your pregnancy. If you have anything you think you could add or contribute- I love hearing from my listeners!!! E-mail me anytime at cheryl@cherylweedmark.com

Create your own birth plan

Writing a birth plan gives you an opportunity to think about and discuss with your partner and your healthcare practitioner how — ideally — you’d like your baby’s birth to be handled. Even though there’s no way you can control every aspect of labor and delivery, a printed document gives you a place to make your wishes clear. Just remember that you’ll need to stay flexible in case something comes up that requires your birth team to depart from your plan.A written birth plan will also help refresh your practitioner’s memory when you’re in labor. And it will bring new members of your medical team — such as your practice’s on-call practitioner and your labor-and-delivery nurse — up to speed about your preferences when you’re in active labor (and probably not in the mood for drawn-out conversation).

Our worksheet, below, will guide you through the process of creating a birth plan. Print it out and check any options that you know you want or that you’d like to ask your caregiver about. Remember that not all of the options listed will be available in every setting or make sense for your situation, particularly if your pregnancy is high-risk. That’s why it’s important to take the worksheet with you to a prenatal appointment and go over it with your doctor or midwife. This will give you both a chance to figure out what’s possible and what’s not, and to find some common ground. And if you can’t reach a consensus, you’ll still have time to explore other options.

After you’ve gone over your options with your caregiver and made some decisions, print out a clean worksheet and revise your plan if you need to. When you have your final plan, give one to your practitioner, have one put in your file at the hospital or birth center, and put one in the bag you’re packing for the day you give birth.

Birth Plan Worksheet

ATTENDANTS AND AMENITIES

I’d like the following people to be present during labor and/or birth:
Partner:  
Friend/s:  
Relative/s:  
Doula:  
Children:  

I’d also like:
To bring music
To dim the lights
To wear my own clothes during labor and delivery
To take pictures and/or film during labor and delivery

LABOR

I’d like the option of returning home if I’m not in active labor.

Once I’m admitted, I’d like:
My partner to be allowed to stay with me at all times
Only my practitioner, nurse, and guests present (i.e., no residents, medical students, or other hospital personnel)
To wear my contact lenses, as long as I don’t need a c-section
To eat if I wish to
To stay hydrated by drinking clear fluids instead of having an IV
To have a heparin or saline lock
To walk and move around as I choose

As long as the baby and I are doing fine, I’d like:
To have intermittent rather than continuous electronic fetal monitoring
To be allowed to progress free of stringent time limits

If they’re available, I’d like to try:
A birthing stool
A birthing chair
A squatting bar
A birthing pool/tub

I’d like to bring the following equipment with me:
Birthing stool
Beanbag chair
Birthing pool/tub
Other: 

When it’s time to push, I’d like to:
Do so instinctively
Be coached on when to push and for how long

I’d like to try the following positions for pushing (and birth):
Semi-reclining
Side-lying position
Squatting
Hands and knees
Whatever feels right at the time

As long as my baby and I are doing fine, I’d like the pushing stage to be allowed to progress free of stringent time limits

PAIN RELIEF

I’d like to try the following pain-management techniques:
Acupressure
Bath/shower
Breathing techniques/distraction
Hot/cold therapy
Self-hypnosis
Massage
Medication

Please don’t offer me pain medication. I’ll request it if I need it.

If I decide I want medicinal pain relief, I’d prefer:
Regional analgesia (an epidural and/or spinal block)
Systemic medication

VAGINAL BIRTH

I’d like:
To view the birth using a mirror
To touch my baby’s head as it crowns
The room to be as quiet as possible
To risk a tear rather than have an episiotomy
My partner to help “catch” our baby

After birth, I’d like:
To hold my baby right away, putting off any procedures that aren’t urgent
To breastfeed as soon as possible
To wait until the umbilical cord stops pulsating before it’s clamped and cut
My partner to cut the umbilical cord
Not to get routine oxytocin (Pitocin) after I deliver the placenta

C-SECTION

If I have a c-section, I’d like:
My partner present at all times during the operation
The screen lowered a bit so I can see my baby coming out
The baby given to my partner as soon as he’s dried (as long as he’s in good health)
To breastfeed my baby in the recovery room

POSTPARTUM

After delivery, I’d like:
All newborn procedures to take place in my presence
My partner to stay with the baby at all times if I can’t be there
To stay in a private room
To have a cot provided for my partner

I plan to:
Breastfeed exclusively
Combine breastfeeding and formula-feeding
Formula-feed exclusively

The following can be offered to my baby:
Formula
Sugar water
Pacifier
Please don’t offer anything to my baby at any point

I’d like my baby fed:
On demand
On a schedule

I’d like:
24-hour rooming-in with my baby
My baby to room-in with me only when I’m awake
My baby brought to me for feedings only
To make my decision later depending on how I’m feeling

If my baby’s a boy:
I’d like him circumcised at the hospital.
I’ll have him circumcised later.
I don’t want him circumcised.

I’d like my other child(ren) brought in to see me and meet the new baby as soon as possible after the birth.

I’m interested in checking out of the hospital early.

 30 Weeks!

Your baby’s lungs and digestive tract are almost fully developed. While your baby may soon slow up growing in length, (he measures about 15.7 inches/ 40 centimetres from crown to toe by now), he will continue to gain weight until he’s born.

This week your baby continues to open and shut his eyes. He can probably see what’s going on in utero, distinguish light from dark and even track a light source. If you shine a light on your stomach, your baby may move his head to follow the light or even reach out to touch the moving glow. Some researchers think baring your stomach to light stimulates visual development. But don’t expect 20/20 vision when your baby is born — newborns can see a distance of only about 8 to 12 inches/ 20 to 30 centimetres. (Children with normal vision don’t reach 20/20 vision until about age 7 to 9.) To complete the picture, your baby now has eyebrows and eyelashes.

A pint and a half/around a litre of amniotic fluid now surrounds your baby but that volume decreases as he gets bigger and has less room in your uterus. As you and the baby continue to grow, don’t be alarmed if you feel breathless, as if you can’t get enough air; it’s just your uterus pressing against your diaphragm. There is a light at the end of the tunnel though. At about 34 weeks (or just before delivery, if this is your second or third pregnancy), your baby’s head will move down into your pelvis as the baby gets into the right position for birth. That will make breathing and eating a lot easier.

Other Guests:

NEXT WEEK- DeVog hair academy will be here to talk about hair products that work and Spring and Summer hair trends that anyone can pull off!!!! Is there a way to avoid expensive electrical and plumbing hourly rates? Finan Home Service will explain that there is and there is no reason why we should ever get another surprise invoice again. Also- how you can avoid scooping up your dog’s poop. We will look at a service that does it for you- could it be too good to be true??

My Pregnancy Journal

3D Baby Vision

All I can say is WOW! Last Saturday, my husband and I had an appointment at 3D baby vision to see our little baby boy in 3D on a big flat screen. We didn’t really know what to expect and had no idea how emotional we would get. My Mother made the long trek into town from Ottawa for the occasion as well- it was so nice to have her apart of it.

So- we arrived (a few minutes late as usual) and filled out some paper work. We were escorted into a very tastefully decorated exam room that was nothing like the clinical exam rooms that we were used. We brought our own CD of music that meant something to us which would be used as background music to the video- so glad we did because it made it even more of an event since we had been playing this music to our baby for several months now- so we knew it would always bring us back to this time in our life. I highly recommend bringing your own music on CD!!!!!!

Once our little baby boy popped up- it was really hard to get our heads wrapped around the fact that this was the little guy we have been dreaming about over the last 7 months. This is him!!! Oh- there were his toes and his fingers and his you know what- yep- definitely a boy!!! It was so emotional- my husband and I could not hold back the tears. Then we saw his perfect little face and button nose. I’m convinced that he looks like my husband already- no question! Check out the pictures of what we saw below. If you have the chance to have an appointment and see your baby n 3D- I would definitely recommend it. It made us even more excited to meet him in person and now we have a wonderful keepsake of photos, video and a recording of his heartbeat to show him someday. I’ve watched the video 4 times already and it brings tears to my eyes every time!!!! It was a day we will NEVER forget and one that we still talk about a week later. I can honestly say that I am even more excited to meet him and the image of his face and cute little chubby cheeks is what will get me through my labour!!!!

Our baby boy at 28 weeks!

He was hiding from us!!

Awww- his cute little nose!

His cute little feet and hands!

 29 Weeks!

Your baby now weighs around 2.5 pounds / 1.1 kilograms and measures about 15 inches / 38 centimetres from head to toe. In boys, testicles descend from near the kidneys through the groin en route to the scrotum. In girls, the clitoris is relatively prominent because it’s not yet covered by the still-small labia. These will grow to cover it in the last few weeks before birth.

Your baby’s head is getting bigger, and brain growth is very rapid at this time. Nearly all babies react to sound by 30 weeks.

Your baby’s nutritional needs reach their peak during the third trimester. You’ll need plenty of protein, vitamin C, folic acid, iron, and calcium (about 200 milligrams is deposited in your baby’s skeleton every day), so eat foods rich in these nutrients. The skeleton hardens even more and the brain, muscles, and lungs continue to mature. So take a look at our eating well guide to make sure you are getting the right minerals and vitamins.

Other Guests:

NEXT WEEK …Jill Ritchie will be in the studio with us to discuss childbirth education classes. We will address questions you need to ask before signing up for classes so you can get the most out of it. Also- next week- we will continue with the Period of Purple crying campaign. Specifically we will look at the connection between shaken baby syndrome and baby’s crying habits. And Jaydancin has a new store opening up in Lambeth. Vickie will be here to tell us about that and reasons for using natural make up and skin care products.

Today we are going to see our baby in 3D for the first time!!! Oh my GOD! My mother even came up from Ottawa for the occasion and I’m a little nervous to see him move around and smile and suck his thumb. Sure- I’ve been feeling hi move for 7 and a half months- but now I get to see what he does when I feel those movements. My husband and I are thrilled and can’t wait to share this experience.

So what can we expect? We had 3D baby vision on the show today and I found this article linked on their website. I found it fascinating and I hope you do as well! Enjoy and check back next week for the update on our appointment and….of course…..3D photos!!!

3D Baby Vision- London

3D Baby Vision- London

Grimaces, grins, yawns, cries: 3D/4D ultrasound captures fetal behaviors

  UNIVERSAL CITY, CALIF. — Three-dimensional and four-dimensional ultrasound images may signal the birth of a new medical field of study: that of fetal behavior, Dr. Stuart Campbell predicted at a meeting of the Obstetrical and Gynecological Assembly of Southern California.

“We know more about the development of monkeys than we do about human fetal behavior,” said the director of London’s Centre for Reproduction and Advanced Technology.

In performing hundreds of 3D/4D ultrasounds, Dr. Campbell has encountered a few surprises himself. For example, there was the time a mother looked at the screen and commented that her fetus was blinking.

“The first time, I said, ‘No, it’s dark in there,’” he recalled. However, he then turned to see the fetus opening and then closing its eyes in a manner compatible with blinking. He demonstrated the behavior in a digital recording of such an examination.

Other recordings demonstrated fetal grimaces, grins, yawns, cries, grasps, finger play, and thumb sucking.

Fetuses even appeared to play with their umbilical cords like jump ropes and used their mothers’ wombs as platforms for trampoline-like jumps. He has recorded fetuses making step-like movements at 12 weeks, yawning at 15 weeks, pressing their fingers together at 17 weeks, and opening their eyes at 18 weeks.

Advanced 3D/4D techniques can be helpful in examining a fetus for the presence of cataracts or cleft lip, or even a cleft palate–by obtaining a cross-sectional, reverse view of the fetal face.

The downside is that the life-like images also offer parents an early and very vivid look at a fetus with anomalies.

“Sometimes they see it at the same time you see it,” noted Dr. Campbell. “With 2D, there was never a mother, ever, who spotted an anomaly as soon as I did.”

Asked whether he thought learning about an anomaly in this way might emotionally damage parents, he said his impression is that they are able to confront the truth and accept it before delivery.

 28 Weeks!

28 Weeks

You’re in the home stretch. The third trimester typically starts at week 29 and lasts until week 40 and sometimes even beyond. (Don’t worry — 42 weeks is the maximum! After that, a woman usually is induced to give birth.) Most women gain an average of 11 pounds/ 5 kilograms during this trimester.

By this week, your baby weighs nearly 2.3 pounds/ a little over 1 kilograms and may measure 14.8 inches/ 38 centimetres from top to toe. At about this time, your baby can open his eyes and turn his head in utero if he notices a continuous, bright light shining from the outside. His fat layers are forming and his fingernails appear.

You’re probably vacillating between feeling as if you’ve been pregnant forever and being nervous about labour and birth. Checking off things on your to-do list can help. Start selecting possible baby names and begin thinking about life after the birth as well.

You’ll probably be seeing your midwife or doctor more often in these last few weeks.

Inside, Outside, Spring or Fall
Dust Bunnies Away! cleans it all.

Cleaning Tips

We know that keeping your home or business clean and tidy can be a sometimes daunting task. We’d like to help make your job easier with the following tips and tricks that we’ve accumulated:

General

• Stay on top of things, don’t let messes accumulate, it’s easy to do a little bit every day than to leave everything until the end of the week.
• Get children involved, start small children off doing small tasks that they can easily accomplish in a short period of time.
• Always start at the top and work down with vacuuming and mopping being last.

Kitchens

• A cup of water placed in the microwave for 2 minutes will help loosen caked on dirt and grime and make it easier to clean. Put lemon in it to neutralize smells.
• Pure vegetable oil can be used to keep stainless steel appliances clean and shiny.
• When using stainless steel cleaner go with the grain of the steel. Buff in circles.
• Put a sheet of tin foil under pans in the oven for easy clean up.
• Use burner plates under burners for easy clean up.

Baths

• A cup of bleach in the back and base of the toilet will help get rid of hard water stains.
• Keep a squeegee and cleaner in the shower so you can do a 2 minute clean and squeegee of water in the shower this will help cut down on build-up.
• Keep a toilet bowl brush in EVERY bathroom .
• Don’t have black bathrooms or glass sinks, they will always look dirty.
• Keep cleaners under the sink.
• Always have a fan to pull moisture from the air in the bathroom to reduce mould and mildew.
• Hand soap leaves white build-up in the shower try using body wash instead.

Bedrooms

• Less is better in a bedroom; keep nick-knacks to a minimum.
• Have a hamper in every room. Have one with 2 baskets to separate colours from whites.
• Dark furniture always shows the dust 50% more. Keep pets out of rooms and off beds. Less dirt, dust mite and bed bugs this way.
• Have garbage pails in every room. And recycling pails.
• Don’t have food or drinks in bedrooms

Other Guests:

NEXT WEEK we will follow up with 3D baby vision and talk about my appointment which is later this morning plus what you can expect if you would like to see your unborn baby in 3D. The London Health Sciences Centre will join us again for their Period of Purple crying campaign- next week we will address crying and how to know whether something is really wrong with your baby. Also next week- heating and cooling 101 with Finan Home Service and why now is the time to be checking your air conditioner instead of waiting for the really warm weather and the dream lottery- your chance at being a millionaire while helping to make health care better in our community.