Jane Carter Solution Review

So far, my journey to natural has been quite interesting.  As I mentioned, I've been dealing with a lot of breakage which I think is mainly linked to post pregnancy hormones.  The doc says it's quite normal.  You would think I'd be super depressed.  Okay I can't lie, there have been times when I wanted to curl into a fetal position and hibernate until my hair grows back.  But that wouldn't be realistic.  Dealing with hair loss isn't fun, but finding products to help my hair return to its natural bounce is.  In fact, my hubby calls me a mad scientist because I'm always trying new things.
I'll admit that I have been experimenting a lot.  But how else am I supposed to find the right products for my hair?

I've been researching various natural hair care lines and someone mentioned Jane Carter Solution.  Aside from being introduced to Nourish and Shine a few years ago, I haven't tried anything else from the company.  After doing some research, I decided to give Jane Carter a try.  I couldn't wait to try out Jane Carter's Scalp Nourishing Serum, Hair Nourishing Serum, the Revitalizing Leave-in Condition, and Wrap & Roll.  Here's what I think about each of them.

Scalp Nourishing Serum claims to heal and soothe the scalp using natural and essential oils, botanicals, and vitamins.  It's suppose to reduce itching, flaking, and dandruff.  It has cedar wood in it which is an anti-inflammatory.  I remember Jane Carter saying (in her video blog) great hair begins with a healthy scalp, and that's something I've been seriously lacking.  I applied a few drops onto my scalp with the dropper.  I immediately noticed he difference in the appearance of my scalp.  After a few days, I had no more flakes!

Hair Nourishing Serum contains thirteen essential oils, vitamins, and botanicals.  It's supposed to deliver nutrients into the hair, de-frizz, and stop breakage.  My biggest problem with any kind of oil is that it tends to leave my hair feeling weighed down.  Rather than have a helmet head, I usually avoid it all together which has been a major mistake on my part.  In addition to having dry scalp, eliminating oils from my hair regimen has also contributed to my hair chipping away.  I love that both serums are light.  It doesn't leave my hair feeling greasy at all.  I even love the smell.  It reminds me of being at a spa getting an aromatherapy facial.  It's so relaxing.

The Revitalizing Leave-in Conditioner was made to protect against heat styling and sun damage. It's supposed to be great for flat ironing and/or roller setting fine hair.  I'm not sure if I'm sold on flat ironing my roots.  I know a lot of peeps say that it's a good alternative to make that slow transition to natural.  But, I want to limit the amount of heat I put on my hair.  It's not to say that I won't ever try it.  I'd rather just use it to keep my roots soft to limit breakage for now.  So far, it does the trick!

Wrap & Roll is a light foaming wrap designed to allow for a smooth and easy wrap; never leaving your hair dry and hard.  It claims to also leave your mane looking shiny, soft, and bouncy.  I'm not a huge fan of setting lotion or mouse in general.  I applied some to my hair before roller setting.  I found that it didn't leave my hair as soft as I like it.  But, it did cut my drying time in half!

Overall, I give Jane Carter Solution two thumbs up.  There's something for all hair types which is a huge plus in my book.  As I continue my journey to return to my natural roots, I'll be using more products from this line.

What's your favorite hair care line?

Weather Anchor Mama

Check Me Out as a Natural!

Lately I've been conjuring up images in my head of what I'd look like as a natural.  Then I stumbled across these old photos during spring cleaning over the weekend.

These shots were from a hair gig I did for a magazine back in the day. I was amazed that natural hair weaves even existed!  I remember the hair stylist looking at me like I was crazy when I told her.  But what can I say?  I was young and totally not up on my hair game.  I was completely oblivious.  I had never rocked a weave before.  I became so in love with this do that I kept it in for weeks after the photo shoot.

At this time, the thought of going au naturel never crossed my mind.  But now that I have these pics, I can show my hubby.  He can't seem to picture me with my natural hair.  It'll also serve as a reminder of the torture we endured when he helped me take this thing out.

Weather Anchor Mama

Quality Time

Lately I've been feeling torn between being a mom and career woman.  I even asked my hubby the other day. "What if I become a stay at home mom?"  He shot me the 'you must be crazy look.'  It would be kinda nice to spend everyday with Princess.  But, staying home would mean putting the idea of buying our second home on the back burner.  Much props to SAHMs!

Sometimes I wish I could quit my weather gig.  But let's face it, I enjoy what I do too much.  I love my job and I love being a mom.  I guess you can say I like to have my cake and eat it too.  There would other factors to consider if we were to even entertain the idea of me staying home.  How would it affect our finances?  Plus, how would pulling Princess out of the daycare she loves so much affect her?  It's like pulling her our of school.  Rather than make drastic changes to our schedule, I'd rather take time off from work whenever possible.  So, I did just that!

Even though I stayed home, I still took Princess to daycare so that I could get some studying done.  My hubby ditched work early and we were able hit up one of our favorite spots for lunch--something we rarely get to do alone.  The day went by so quickly. Before we knew it, it was time to pick Princess up.

We enjoyed some family time, and I got to put my baby to bed.  Before she hit the sack, Princess insisted on reading her new story time books she got from Auntie Sophia.

Fun times!  As you can see, she had a hard to putting the books away.

I love spending quality time with my baby girl.

Weather Anchor Mama

Torn

Princess is getting so big, and she's finally sleeping through the night!  But, why am I not ecstatic?  I thought I'd being jumping over the moon, and excited to be getting more sleep.  But, I'm sad.

I knew it would eventually happen.  I'm having the most trouble with the fact that she no longer needs me at night.  I know your probably thinking I'm insane for feeling this way.  But, I can't help it.  Don't get it twisted, I'm not one of those helicopter moms.  Hovering is not my thing.  I want Princess to be independent.  I don't want her to be attached to my hip every second of the day.

I think my feelings stem from my overall time spent with her--or lack there of.  I recently had to take some days of from work, and it hit me.  Being able to spend my evenings with her and putting her to bed made be realize what I've been missing.  It's crazy how much she's developing!  What's even crazier is the fact that she's a completely different toddler in the morning than she is at night.  The Princess I get in the morning can be a bit cranky.  She loves to cuddle, and hates getting dressed.  At night she's playful, loves to sing, and run around the house.  She's at that stage where she's repeating everything.  Now that I've returned to work, I feel guilty.

I'm torn between my daughter and my job.  I love them both.  But how do I split my time equally?  People always ask me how I manage to balance everything I do.  Sometimes I ask myself that same question.  Between work, school, and Princess, it can get pretty tough.  There are days when I feel like I have it all down pat.  But there are times when I feel torn.  I'm gonna have to make some changes.

Do you every feel torn between your job and your kids?

Weather Anchor Mama 

Winter to Spring

Spring is finally here!  But, it hasn't sprung quite yet.  Even though temps are milder than normal for this time of year, we woke up to fog and gray skies.  (spring pics below)

On the flip side, the last day of winter was more spring like.  In fact, winter came in like a lamb and out like one too.  Now that's my kind of weather! (winter pics below)

I am looking forward to warmer weather!

What's your favorite season?

Weather Anchor Mama

Flax Seed Hair Gel Made From Scratch

For years I've struggled with buying the right oils and moisturizers for my hair.  My tresses are fine, so adding too much oil tends to weigh it down.  Not to mention hair products in general can be pricey.  Rather than break the bank, my friend Dana recommended that I make my own natural gel.  She gave me a recipe for Flax seed  hair gel. Check it out!

Here's what you'll need:

1/4 cup organic golden flax seed whole  

3 cups of water
aloe gel
citric acid powder
Vegetable Glycerin
Lavender
Honey or Agave Nectar

Add 1/4 golden flaxseed to 3 cups of water and bring to a boil.  Turn stove down to a simmer, all while stirring the pot.  Once the mixture becomes gel like and seeds are suspended (10-15 minutes), separate with a strainer (if the mixture becomes too thick, you can use some hot water to help separate).

Then add 2 squirts of aloe gel for moisture

Citric acid powder to help preserve gel (I couldn't find any, so the sales lady said a few drops vitamin E will work just fine)

A couple squirts of vegetable glyceryn will make your locks silky 

Include a few drops lavender for fragrance

3 tablespoon Honey or agave nectar will give your hair a nice flexible hold.

Mix well and your flax seed hair is done.  Here's how it should look--minus the seeds of course.  FYI, separating the seeds from the gel is the hardest part.

It's great for naturals, but not great for my relaxed mane.  It did a great job of taming my edges though.  It works much better on Princess's curls.  All I used was a tiny drop!

Do you make your own hair products?

Weather Anchor Mama

Pre-Spring Photos

Spring officially arrives Tuesday.  But, mother nature decided to give us a nice treat.  The weather was so nice!  It's been a while since we took some cute outdoor pics.  Enjoy!

Weather Anchor Mama

I Have No Voice!

I talk for a living.  That's what I do everyday.  So when I woke up this morning without a voice, I freaked!  I should have known that this was going to eventually happen.  It usually does at least once a year.  The writing was on the wall earlier this week.

A few days ago I began noticing sinus congestion.  A co-worker of mine was kind enough to give me some throat lozenges and over the counter meds to help with the symptoms.  I figured if I treated it right away I could stop the virus in its tracks.  Wrong!!!  This thing came back with a vengeance.  I woke up at six this morning to find I had nothing.  My voice box was completely shot.  I called boss lady right away to let her know I wasn't going to be coming into to work.   She also insisted I stay home and pay a visit to the doc.  I felt so bad.  Since having Princess, I've called out so many times--it's ridiculous.  I've always been the kind of person to never call out.  I was the kid in school who always got the award for best attendance.  But, it's been quite the opposite these last couple years.  The funny thing is that I do my best to avoid getting sick throughout the year.  I take my vitamins, I eat pretty healthy (most times), and I exercise.

When it comes to my voice, I'm no Beyonce.  But, I do treat my voice like a singer.  I drink lots of green tea, lemon, ginger, and agave nectar/honey during my shift.  I never go to bed without having something hot to drink.  I wish I could say that I rest my voice throughout the day.  But, I can't front.  I'm a talkaholic.  I'm always chatting away at work.  I get in trouble for it once in a while too.  Boss lady calls our section of the newsroom, "Chatty Kathys."  From time to time she'll come out of her office to reprimand us.

Anyway, just thought I'd share my conundrum with you.  I did go to the doc and all he gave me was  nasal spray.  "This will run it's course," he said.  All I have to do is rest my voice.  Yeah, right!  Picture that!  I've made a few calls and scared some folks today.  But, I've been mostly texting.  

My voice is my bread and butter.  I can't afford to have it shot any further.  Thank goodness it's the weekend. Hopefully, I can get lots of rest (if Princess will allow it).  In the meantime, I'll treat myself to some sushi and a brownie sundae to help with the pain.  As you can probably tell-- in addition to being a talkaholic, I'm also a foodie.  Maybe I'll have some soup later.  Hopefully, I'll be as good as new by Monday.

Weather Anchor Mama

Dana's Jewelry Box (Giveaway)

I get inspired when I meet other women like myself who aren't afraid to pursue their dreams, while taking care of their little ones.  Why can't we have our cake and eat it too?  Some may say it's impossible to do it all.  But, I beg to differ. While I do agree that sacrifices are a must, there's no reason why women can't be successful career moms.  It's all about finding a balance.  Dana Arthur of Dana's Jewelry Box, has managed to do just that.

Dana Arthur has always been an artist at heart, and has explored many mediums and enjoyed them all. She began making jewelry over 20 years ago.  Her pieces have garnered attention from main street to Hollywood.  Celebrities like Oprah and Vivica A. Fox have rocked her designs.  I had the pleasure of chatting with Ms. Arthur about career, motherhood, and life lessons.

Dana Arthur

There’s no manual to being mom.  You became a mother at a young age.  How were you able to jump into that role?
I had to grow up fast. Being a quiet and shy girl also made the transition easy for me.  I was able to rise to the occasion with no problem.  I just finished high school, and was determined to go to college.  I also worked part time, and my daughter’s father attended medical school. I would get up early and drop her off at the babysitter.  I lived in the Bronx and took public transportation.  So, going up and down the subway stairs with a baby in one hand and a stroller in another became a part of my daily routine.

What kind of support did you have at the time?

Due to the demands of med-school, I had to do most of the heavy lifting when it came to looking after our child.  I was pretty much taking care of her alone.  My mom was also there to provide moral support.  

What was some of the biggest challenges you faced as a mom?

Continuing my education was a huge challenge.  I was a theatre major, and was looking forward to going out on acting auditions.  I even got an audition for Juilliard and past the first screening.  But, I ended up not going through with the second part of the process because I couldn’t afford it at the time.  I decided to go to CCNY (City College of NY) and continued my theater studies there.  But, I ultimately had to drop out after two years because I had to work to support my child.  It was so hard being a full time student.  I ended up taking classes whenever I could fit them in.

I became a founding member of a theatre group with a local playwright called, Loaves and Fishes, which means feeding the masses.  The group allowed be to keep my creative juices flowing.

Your little girl is all grown up and you’re now a grandma.  What were some important life lessons you've passed on to your daughter that prepared her for motherhood?

One of the first things I taught my daughter was not to get caught up in the superficial.  As a child, my daughter was a natural performer.  She was the kind of kid who would sing a song at the drop of a hat.  The world was her stage. So, taking her on auditions was a natural progression.  Despite her success at booking gigs, I decided to take her out of the biz because I grew concerned of the environment.  It just wasn't conducive to the way I wanted to raise her, so I stopped taking her out on auditions.  

I wanted to teach her the importance of education.  I would always say to her “When you graduate college.”  I never gave her an option, and decided early on that she would finish college.

I also wanted to expose her to culture.  Even though she was no longer immersed in theatre, I wanted to expose her to dance and art as well.  She continues to pass along these important lessons to her daughter as well.

In addition to being a great mom and grandma, you’re also a talented jewelry designer.  I’ve had the privilege of rockin’ some of your fabulous pieces over the years.  Describe your line and also the inspiration behind it.

My jewelry is very personal.  I feel passionate about my work.  My inspiration comes from nature and flowers.  For example, I saw a peacock the other day.  I was fascinated by its bright colors.  I appreciate the beauty in everything around us, and want to display that in my pieces.  I also love African, and East Indian art.  But, most of my inspiration comes from nature.

Peacock inspired earrings

You've also designed jewelry for some celebs. How were you able to accomplish that?
When I first launched my jewelry line as a business, I was not able to afford a PR firm to promote my line, so I decided to choose the women I admired and figured out how to contact them.  I wrote a heartfelt letter to Oprah and told her what an inspiration she was to me and women in general.  I designed a special pair of earrings made with beautiful yellow jade sterling silver and sent them to her.  She actually sent me a personal thank you letter!  

A close friend of mine was interviewing actress Vivica A. Fox for her web magazine, and gave her a pair of my earrings which she loved.  I feel very fortunate to have had these opportunities.


We've chatted about career, motherhood, and important lessons.  Now let's talk hair!  Ever since we first met seven years ago, you've been sporting natural curls.  I’m now in the process of going natural.  Do you mind sharing your hair care regimen?  Also, what advice do you have for others like myself who decide to ditch the relaxer?

My hair is a total 180 from a relaxer.  Water has become my best friend.  I condition everyday and half rinse the product out in order to keep it soft.  I use denman brush to minimize breakage.  Once your hair is natural, my biggest advice is to not comb while your hair is dry.  That would mess up the curl definition, and could lead to breakage.  As you’re transitioning, make sure you trim your ends every couple months to avoid the big chop.

What would you like moms to take away from this interview?
I want them to know that you CAN make a way out of no way.  You can be a rockin' mama, and nurture, and follow your dreams as well.  Sometimes you just have to put it on a shelf for a while and go back to it when the time is right.  To prove that point- I am proud to say that my daughter Lynnette just completed her masters in education while working, and being a rockin' mama as well.

Ms. Arthur has graciously agreed to sponsor a giveaway.  These beautiful earrings -normally priced at $65- from her collection are up for grabs.  Enter below for chance of scoring them.  You can also get 20% off any item from Dana's Jewelry Box by entering code: WAM001 (valid until May 15, 2012).

Sterling silver with iolite & blue topaz gemstones

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Playing the Baby Card

These shades and smoothie keep her from having a tantrum

I've been known to play the baby card every now and then.  If I decide to make a pitstop at the local health food store, having a fussy child has gotten me to the front of the line faster.  Heck, the sales clerk has even carried my items to my car.  I don't know if people feel pity on me, or if they want to get me and my screaming baby out of the store quickly.  I'm cool with it either way.  Trying to calm a child while focusing on making a purchase can be so frustrating.  So, there's no shame in my game.

The other day I took my car in to get serviced.  The plan was to take Princess for her swim lesson, get back for lunch, wait for hubby to return home, and then head over to the dealership.  The problem was that Princess ended up falling asleep a little earlier than expected.  Waking her up would mean dealing with a cranky toddler for the rest of the day.  Even though dad was home with her, getting back before she woke up was also imperative.  I figured getting a shuttle back from the dealership would be cake- or so I thought.  When the service tech told me there was no one there to take me home, I pulled out the baby card.  I explained to the guy that I had to get back to my little girl, he pulled some strings, and I was able to make it back before Princess woke up.

Some may feel that I'm taking advantage of the situation.  But, I look at it as just being smart.  I could have waited while my car was being worked on, but that would take time away from getting other things done around the house.  Hey, sometimes a mama's gotta do what a mama's do.

Have you ever pulled the baby card?

Weather Anchor Mama

My Take on Castor Oil

My mom introduced my sister and I to castor oil when we were kids.  Since I've decided to go back to my natural roots, I've been using it to treat my hair more often.

Twinkle Little Star

 Didn't get all the words. But, she tried.

It's Been 4 Weeks!

It's been 4 weeks since my last relaxer.

I know your probably wondering "so what?"  But, it's a big deal to me.  Normally around this time I'm going through withdrawals and can't wait for my next fix.  This time around I'm chillin'.  I have no desire to call my hairdresser to set up an appointment.  I've managed to keep my new growth pretty soft with conditioner and olive oil.

My journey so far has been great learning experience in which I equate to dating.  I feel like I'm courting my hair.  So far, I dig what I see.  I'm falling in love with my mane all over again, and my hubby doesn't mind.  Just as long as I make time for Princess and him, he's cool.  Once I go natural, I won't go back!

Weather Anchor Mama

Gotta Get My Piercing Back!

Some people are into tattoos, I prefer piercings.  When I got pregnant, I knew I'd eventually have to do without it.  So, I held out for as long as I could.  I got a lot of flack for having mine.  But, I was hell bent on keeping it in throughout my pregnancy and beyond.

I was aware that my piercing would become a hindrance during my pregnancy and labor.  But, I had no plans of getting rid of it.  I wanted fight tooth and nail to keep it in.  It was something I treated myself to when I studied abroad in Spain.  While I never considered myself a rebellious person, this was very out of character for me and I embraced it.  I just wanted a little something to celebrate my once in a lifetime experience.  I planned on having it forever.  Besides, it's not like anyone can see it- or at least most people.  I knew my mom would freak if she found out.  So, I never mentioned it to anyone (except for my boyfriend/now hubby).

I had my piercing for years, and I never thought of it ever closing up.  When I became pregnant with Princess, the thought of losing my precious reminder of my time in Spain made me sad.  I held out for 8 months before removing it.

As painful as it was to take it out, it was just as painful to put it in again.  Right after I gave birth I stuck that sucker in.  My hubby thought I was absolutely crazy.  Somehow my mother-in-law caught wind of it.  I got a scolding from her too.  I eventually took it out again because it became uncomfortable.  Holding, nursing, and burping Princess grew increasingly bothersome.  So, I had to take it out again.

It's been almost a year since I last had my piercing in, and I've decided to put it back in again.  I knew it wouldn't be easy.


Before write anymore, I just want to state this disclosure:
The following contains information and images not suitable for those with sensitive tummies.  If you get nauseous easily, you may want to stop here.
For those of you who aren't easily fazed by a little TMI, here goes:


After getting out of the shower, I thoroughly cleaned the area and the ring. I got into a comfy position and attempted to push it through. Thankfully I was home alone, so no one heard my screams of agony. Despite multiple attempts, I couldn't get the darn thing in. The only progress made was getting rid of some of the puss that clogged up the hole. WTF!! This thing hurt like crazy! So, I went to plan B.

I got an old tiny earring. You know, the kind you get when you first get your ear pierced. I know it's an odd solution considering I wasn't trying to re-pierce my ear. Even though it wasn't a match, it was the best option.

I'll keep trying to get my original one in. But, this will work in the meantime.

Have you ever tried re-piercing a body part?

Weather Anchor Mama

Every Day Products That May Cause Cancer

Transitioning ain't easy, and neither is finding the right shampoo for my soon to be kinky hair.  I often read about the importance of avoiding products that contain paraben, but what the heck is that exactly?

I did some research and learned that paraben is a chemical that can be found in many skin care products and cosmetics, including the shampoos we use.  It's less expensive to make, and is designed to stop or slow down the growth of bacteria.  Studies have claimed that this preservative can act as estrogen which can be linked to cancer.  Scientists have found concentrations of the chemical in various breast tumors.  That information alone is enough to make me paranoid.  But as long as I'm not ingesting it, I should be ok.  Right?  Not exactly.  When applied to your skin, it can actually enter your bloodstream.  The body can take in 10 times the amount than if taken orally.  Peeps with sensitive skin (like me) may even have an allergic reaction.

Further testing in 2002  revealed that parabens reduce sperm counts in rats.  While I appreciate being made aware of the possible dangers of parabens, I wonder if this is all a marketing ploy to try and scare us.  Is this a way to get consumers to spend more money on products that don't include the chemical?  Despite my reluctance to feed into all this mumbo jumbo, I am concerned about the kind of shampoo and other products I use on Princess.  My research also led me to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website which breaks it down even further.

In response to a study published in 2004, the FDA questions the toxicity of parabens, and its possible  link to cancer.  It claims that the test was incomplete because it didn't look at possible paraben levels of normal tissue in relation to cancerous ones .  The agency concluded that the amount of the chemical found in products typically range from .01 to .3% which is considered safe.  

Just the mere fact that there're is a question regarding the health hazards of parabens is enough for me to want to avoid it all together. But, do I rummage through my medicine cabinet and toss all items containing paraben?  Besides, it cost an arm and a leg to buy products without the ingredient. When I think back to my relatives who have survived breast cancer, it makes me think. These women never smoked.   They avoided the sun, and maintained a pretty healthy lifestyle. As a feature reporter, I remember interviewing cancer patients who had no family link to the disease.  So, all this talk of everyday products possibly containing parabens makes me want to re-evaluate future purchases.

The next time I'm out shopping for shampoo I'll be scrutinizing the label.  I may also have to bite the bullet and shell out some extra dough for healthier products for my family.  Luckily for me- the money that I save from relaxers can be redirected to shampoos without parabens.  Plus, my hubby has become a coupon expert.  Hopefully we'll be able to save as much as possible on paraben free products through couponing.

If you're considering going paraben free,  here's a site I found helpful.  It lists products and do and don't contain paraben as an ingredient.  

Do you try and avoid products containing parabens?

Weather Anchor Mama

Stop The Presses Beyonce Breastfeeds!

Beyonce with hBlue Ivy. Carter Family/Ed Burke for Beyonce.com/AP Photo

Beyonce sparks public breastfeeding debate.  Whoop-ti-do!!  Apparently, the star was seen nursing Blue Ivy at a public restaurant.  I'm baffled that this is making national news.  Some people frown upon mothers choosing to nurse out in the open, and I don't get it.  I've been nursing for 18 months strong and make no excuses for breastfeeding Princess in public.

I've nursed just about every where.  Don't get me wrong, I never completely exposed my boobies.  But if I happened to be eating at a restaurant,  I've whipped it out right there.  Why should I have leave the table and go to the bathroom?  That's just gross.  There's no reason why Princess can't eat with us at the table.  I know a lot of folks may disagree.  So what!  At the end of the day, I'm happy and my baby's happy.  I'm careful and discrete enough to not let patrons get an eye full.  If they do, oh well.

I remember nursing in the middle of a shopping mall.  I really didn't care who saw.  My baby girl was starving and cranky, so I did what I had to do at the time.  An employee saw me and kindly informed me of a comfy lounge for nursing moms, which I thought was very nice.  But let's face it, if there are tons of people around and your child is screaming for food then a mom's gotta do what a mom's gotta do.

That's exactly what Beyonce did.  I just don't understand why it's such a big deal.  Nursing moms do it all the time.  However when you factor in the statistics reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2010, I can sort of understand why some may feel that it's a huge deal.  A reported 54 % of black (non-Hispanic) moms breastfeed, in comparison to 74% white, and 80% Hispanic.  One blogger feels that stars like Beyonce will encourage more black women to nurse

While I would love to see the stats for nursing black moms rise, the reality is that it may not be right for everyone.  It doesn't make them bad moms.  It's just a personal choice.  Kudos to Beyonce for breastfeeding beautiful Blue Ivy!  But, I don't feel that we should appoint her as a breastfeeding trailblazer for us.  I just think all women should educate themselves about the benefits of nursing.  Then make a conscious decision as to whether or not it's right for them.  You shouldn't do it because a celebrity makes it "cool."

As for me, I'll continue to wear my breastfeeding badge with pride.

Would you consider nursing because a celebrity does it?

Weather Anchor Mama

Wen All Else Fails

 I'm always up for trying new products. But truth be told, I wasn't exactly drawn to this hair care line.

Rules Are Made to be Broken

When it comes to driving with my little Princess, I believe in safety first. Recent car seat laws advise parents to keep their children in rare facing seats until the age of two. Normally I'm all for following guidelines to a tee. But in this case, I have no choice but to break the rules.

Before I went into labor, my hubby installed the car seat and had it checked by the state police. We planned on having Princess rare facing until she reached 24 months, as the new law states. However, I've noticed that she's getting way too big for her backwards chair. At her last check up, the doc told me she was in the 90th percentile in the height department. She's about 33 1/2 inches and she weighs approximately 24 lbs. Her legs are getting so long, her knees are almost touching her chest.

No leg room

The new guidelines state:

"Keep a baby rear-facing in a convertible seat until he or she reaches the maximum height or weight allowed by the manufacturer. For many children that will be 30, 35 or even 40 pounds. Many kids will be over age 2 when they reach that weight. Rear-facing occupants are safest."

The car seat we have allows up to 65 pounds. That means under these rules, Princess will be in elementary school before we can even turn her seat around! I've debated this issue for quite some time. I do understand that rear facing offers the best protection possible. But, I also believe comfort is just as important. So, I made an executive decision to turn the darn thing around.

Princess is so happy to be forward facing!

Do you believe in keeping your kiddo rear facing until 2 years old?

Weather Anchor Mama

I'm Losing My Hair!

It's totally normal to lose over 100 strands of your hair a day.  But, it's not normal when the back of your head looks like this:

This is quite an embarrassing picture to say the least.  But, I've decided to post it to illustrate how much my hair has fallen out.  I think it has a lot to do with my hormones adjusting, since giving birth.  

I'm hoping that transitioning to natural will help with restoring my hair line.  Thankfully it's at the back and not the front!

Weather Anchor Mama