It may not feel like it due all this rain we’ve been having, but Summer is fast approaching and along with it comes backyard barbecues, pool parties, and fun OC outings. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s easy to feel left out when the rest of the crowd is drinking a refreshing cocktails. Which is why we’re sharing a few of our favorite mocktail recipes that will keep you in the celebratory, breezy mood that Summer evokes. These are perfect for a Summer baby shower by the beach or as a simple way to beat the heat. Whichever way you choose to enjoy these fresh, alcohol-free libations; we cheers to you!
Birth Plan, Doulas, Motherhood, Newborns, Postpartum
In the quiet hush of the labor & delivery room, where the air is charged with anticipation and the scent of earthiness and birthyness, a new chapter in your life unfolds. The rhythmic cadence of your breath is mirrored by the gentle whispers of your doula, a reassuring presence in this oh so sacred moment. The culmination of nine months… maybe more, leads to this: the first hour with your newborn.
Decision Making, Pregnancy, Parenting, Newborns, Our Favorites
When I was selecting items for my baby registry, it was really important to me to not go overboard. As a doula of 14 years, I’ve seen families get overwhelmed with the amount of stuff in their homes and nurseries and I knew I wanted to keep things on the simpler side. I also wanted to be mindful of the impact on not only the environment, but also my baby’s microbiome - which meant finding a lot of eco-friendly products to keep waste down and keep our home as “low tox” as possible. Here you’ll find some of my favorite sustainable and most useful items that I registered for.
Newborns, Motherhood, Parenting, Postpartum, Postpartum Doula, Baby Sleep
The Doulas of Orange County office phone rings.
I pick up. “Hello! Doulas of Orange County. Lauren speaking.”
A strained voice sounds relieved to hear me, and it sounds like she has been crying. She’s an exhausted new mom of 12-week old twins and a 20-month-old toddler (who won’t let her out of his sight). She’s drained from her twin pregnancy, a difficult birth, and breastfeeding challenges. She struggles to keep up with laundry and wash enough dishes to have plates for the next meal. Her partner has been trying to feed the baby at night, but she’s still waking up to pump for multiples and can’t help but feel guilty about how tired her partner will be at work the next day. She really needs a postpartum doula in Irvine, CA.
“Can you help me, even though my babies are so old?” She asks.
