New Mama Amy Schumer Is Back at Work Again with Plenty of New Mommy-ing Material

by Erica LoopMay 27, 2019

She may have given birth weeks ago, but comedian Amy Schumer is back at it again. That is, the new mama is already working.

Schumer posted a pic of herself performing at NYC’s Comedy Cellar on Instagram earlier this week, giving other mamas cause to send out some serious respect. Most of us are still wearing third-trimester sweats, haven’t showered in days and can’t even remember our names two weeks into mommy-hood, but not Schumer. The super-talented super-mama was back on the stage in full-force, and we totally applaud her.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxtP5JGFFfU/

Despite a not-so-perfect pregnancy, the comedian kept up a pretty rigorous performance schedule. Along with the constant morning sickness (she was diagnosed with hyperemisis gravidarum) and everything else that goes along with pregnancy, Schumer’s baby-to-be status gave her plenty of material to work with.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @amyschumer

While we can’t say for sure it looks like Schumer will have even more comedic content from her role as a new mama. Case in point, in another recent IG post Schumer posed with a double breast pump, captioning the photo, “Guys what are we doing tonight?” Schumer also added the hashtag #OOTD.

If your mom-ing duties have kept you from the IG lingo, OOTD stands for “outfit of the day”—which is now a social media-fueled holiday created by Vanderpump Rules star Stassi Schroeder, celebrating personal style. And in mom world, a double-pump tube top is 100 percent the OOTD!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Amy Schumer via Instagram

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3 Busy Moms Tried Nurture Life & Here’s What They Discovered

by Erin LemApril 15, 2019

Once you joined the mom club, you expected toddler tantrums and 3 a.m. feedings, but you were blindsided by the dinnertime hustle that takes over your house every evening. Nurture Life, a meal delivery service, is changing the dinnertime game for parents across the country with their nutritious, kid-pleasing dinners that are delivered straight to your doorstep. Three busy moms recently tried Nurture Life and dished about why they’re now loyal fans. Here are their stories:

Brianne from Stroller in the City: Let Nurture Life Be a Part of Your Village

Brianne, Stroller in the City

They say it takes a village and when you need a pinch hitter, call in Nurture Life. That's exactly what Brianne from Stroller in the City found when she tried out the meal delivery service. She says, "They say it takes a village to raise a family, and I couldn’t agree more, so any type of help is welcome in my home." Brianne name calls out Nurture Life's inherent understanding of parents as one big reason she loved the service, "Nurture Life was created by two parents who realized how time consuming and difficult it is to make healthy meals seven days a week. Nurture Life prepares fresh, wholesome, organic, ready-to-eat meals. Their recipes are developed by a chef and pediatric dietician." Read more about why Brianne from Stroller in the City loved Nurture Life by reading her story here.

Joni from Lay Baby Lay: Nurture Life Is for All Ages and Stages

Joni, Lay Baby Lay

With three kids (soon to be four!), Joni of Lay Baby Lay knows a thing or two about providing nutritious meals to her kids through every stage of childhood. This busy mama divulges, "Feeding three kids (soon to be four!) is no joke. Especially when you are also trying to make certain they get enough veggies and protein in their diet. Some weeks it honestly feels overwhelming trying to figure out a meal plan in the middle of an already full schedule and on top of the exhaustion that the third trimester of pregnancy brings." So when she found Nurture Life it's like all the stars aligned in her favor. Joni continues, "I was really thrilled to discover Nurture Life, a meal delivery service that takes all the guesswork out of feeding all these little mouths. With a team of pediatric dietitians and chefs on staff, they create and deliver wholesome, nutritious, ready to eat baby, toddler and kid meals to your door. Does it get any better than that?!" Read more of Joni from Lay Baby Lay's story by clicking here.

Bailey from Everyday with Bay: Nurture Life Is Convenient and Nutritious

Bailey, Everyday with Bay

At the end of the day, convenience means nothing if your kids aren't getting the nutrition and healthy meals they need. Bailey from Everyday with Bay says, What makes Nurture Life different than traditional box meals is that the finished meals are sent to you made with fresh, high quality ingredients! All you have to do is reheat them in the oven or microwave and you have a great tasting, healthy pediatric dietitian-approved meal in less than 3 minutes which leaves more opportunity for family time! They are not packed with preservatives, they are made to order and only use fresh ingredients!" Hear more from Bailey from Everyday with Bay by reading her story here.

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How Big Is Your Baby This Week? This Fetal Development Guide Will Tell You

by Eva Ingvarson CeriseMarch 26, 2019

We want our babies to be sweet and healthy, so maybe that’s why we like to compare their fetal development to fruit (and the occasional veggie). Get to know your baby bump better with this weekly guide to baby’s size and monthly check-in on baby’s amazing physical growth while in the womb. And keep in mind, healthy babies come in all shapes and sizes, so guides like this are just for fun.

photo: Public Domain Pictures via Pixabay

First Trimester

Whether your bump is bumping or nonexistent, your baby is experiencing a lot of growth during this first trimester. The brain, nerves and spinal cord start forming, as do those cute baby fingers and toes, and baby’s heart begins to beat (you’ll hear it at your prenatal check-ups!).

Let’s see how big baby is, starting at week 4. Why week 4? Because conception is usually tracked from the first day of your last period, so you’re generally not pregnant until week 3, when fertilization occurs.

photo: Skitterphotos via Pixabay

4 weeks—poppy seed
At this stage, baby is a blastocyst, a rapidly dividing ball of cells that will become the embryo and placenta.

5 weeks—sesame seed

6 weeks—pomegranate seed

7 weeks—blueberry

photo: couleur via Pixabay

8 weeks—raspberry
Your baby’s nose, upper lip and taste buds are forming, and the tail is nearly gone.

9 weeks—cherry

10 weeks—kumquat

11 weeks—fig

photo: Tesa Photography via Pixabay

12 weeks—lime
This is the week when fingernails generally form and baby’s face begins to look more human, with eyes and ears moving into their typical spots and a clear profile you’ll soon see during your ultrasounds.

13 weeks—small lemon

Second Trimester

In this trimester, your baby will likely begin to move and hear, along with other exciting developments.

14 weeks—peach

15 weeks—apple

photo: Ponce Photography via Pixabay

16 weeks—avocado
By the four-month mark of pregnancy, babies can usually make a fist and suck their thumb. They can move their eyes and have begun to develop toenails.

17 weeks—pear

18 weeks—bell pepper

19 weeks—mango

photo: StockSnap via Pixabay

20 weeks—banana (in length)
You’ve hit the halfway point on your pregnancy, and you may be able to feel baby’s fluttery movements! Your baby is now regularly sleeping and waking and is drinking several ounces of amniotic fluid a day.

21 weeks—carrot (in length)

22 weeks—papaya

23 weeks—eggplant

photo: Couleur via Pixabay

24 weeks—ear of corn (in length)
Babies are skinny and wrinkly at this stage but will start to plump up soon. Their skin is now starting to become more opaque (it had been translucent).

25 weeks—rutabaga

26 weeks—zucchini

27 weeks—cauliflower

photo: Hans via Pixabay

28 weeks—kabocha squash
Baby can now bat their eyes at you through partially open eyelids, covered in eyelashes. Babies start to develop more fat at this stage and are practicing breathing, both in preparation for life outside the womb.

Third Trimester

In the final trimester in the womb, your baby should increase their weight significantly, so you’re likely to feel and see more of their movements.

29 weeks—butternut squash

30 weeks—cabbage

31 weeks—coconut

photo: Dezalb via Pixabay

32 weeks—Napa cabbage
Baby is starting to sprout hair on their head and losing the soft hair that has covered their body (known as lanugo). Their formerly wrinkly skin is smoothing out.

33 weeks—pineapple

34 weeks—cantaloupe

35 weeks—honeydew melon

photo: BlackRiv via Pixabay

36 weeks—romaine lettuce
Baby’s liver and kidneys should now be working, and baby has grown so much, they take up most of the amniotic sac. You will likely feel lots of stretches and rolling movements.

37 weeks—Swiss chard (in length)

38 weeks—rhubarb stalk (in length)

39 weeks—small pumpkin

photo: FruitnMore via Pixabay

40-42 weeks—watermelon

It’s go time! At this point, baby’s lungs are continuing to develop so they can give you that big, healthy cry at birth.

—Eva Ingvarson Cerise

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Pregnant Jessica Simpson Is Out of the Hospital & Proves She’s One Tough Mama

by Erica LoopMarch 6, 2019

Following a week-long hospitalization for bronchitis, celeb mama-to-be Jessica Simpson is finally back at home. The singer, designer and mom to two hasn’t exactly had the easiest pregnancy this time around—and we totally feel for her.

Simpson’s pregnancy woes aren’t new. After announcing her pregnancy last September, the celeb’s Instagram feed became a sounding board for her tough time. In January, Simpson posted a pic of her super-swollen feet, asking her followers for help. Even though the swelling went down, her pregnancy problems didn’t end there.

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A post shared by Jessica Simpson (@jessicasimpson)

In February, Simpson posted another pic of a problem. This time the mama showed off her brand-new recliner—purchased to help with the severe acid reflux.

The star’s current battle with bronchitis, which she also ‘grammed, isn’t the first during Simpson’s pregnancy. According to her post, this her fourth go-round with the illness in the past two months. Fortunately Simpson is on the mend and, again according to her IG post, baby Birdie is “doing awesome!”

You’re in the home stretch, mama!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Jessica Simpson via Instagram

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Pregnant News Anchor Claps Back at Would-Be Body Shamers: “Chill”

by Erica LoopJanuary 18, 2019

Houston-area mom-to-be Erica Simon, like many moms-to-be, is working while pregnant. She also just happens to be a local news anchor—and it seems like plenty of people have something to say about this whole “being pregnant” thing when she’s on the air.

They aren’t talking about the fact that she’s working. We’re way past that. Apparently some of her viewers have something to say about Simon’s weight gain. Um, what?!

Some of the viewer comments about my pregnancy are starting to get annoying. Yes, I’m aware I’m petite so the sudden packing on of pounds is a startling sight. No, I’m not having twins and no I’m not due any day. I’ll update you as I go, but chill. ❤️

— Erica Simon (@EricaOnABC13) December 27, 2018

Simon announced her pregnancy back in October—during her 20th week. No one said anything about the petite anchor’s frame then. But now that she’s in her third trimester, Simon’s news viewers seem to think that talking about her pregnancy weight is totally fine. News flash, ABC-13 viewers: it’s never okay to discuss a pregnant woman’s weight, or, if we’re being honest—anyone’s weight, pregnant or otherwise.

As the comments started coming in, Simon clapped back. In a tweet, the TV anchor wrote, “Some of the viewer comments about my pregnancy are starting to get annoying. Yes, I’m aware I’m petite so the sudden packing on of pounds is a startling sight. No, I’m not having twins and no I’m not due any day.”

Simon ended her tweet the perfect response: “I’ll update you as I go, but chill.”

—Erica Loop

Featured Photo: Erica Simon via Instagram

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5 Places for D.C.-Moms-to-Be to Shop for Clothes

by Katie BrownApril 10, 2018

You’ve bought ruched t-shirts and capris in every color from Destination Maternity and A Pea in the Pod, and you’ve ransacked the racks at Target for a decent swimsuit. But, dear beautiful-bellied mamas, there is more out there! We’ve rounded up a few local spots and some of the best websites out there for everything from the perfect nursing bra to the chicest of jumpsuits. Go flaunt that bump!

Photo: Le Tote

Wiggle Room
Located in the heart of Bethesda, this children’s and maternity consignment shop is your go-to local spot for gently used and high-end clothing, baby gear, toys, and gifts. Coach diaper bag? Check. Pink plush swan rocker? Check. More importantly for the well-dressed mama-to-be, Wiggle Room has a well-stocked inventory of designer clothes for every season. You’ll find Isabel Oliver and Jessica Simpson dresses, Citizens of Humanity and For All Mankind jeans, Motherhood Maternity swimsuits, and a huge selection of nursing bras and nursing covers. Their selection is always changing, but you can sign up on their “wish list” for help finding a particular special item.

4924 Del Ray Ave. (Bethesda, Md)
301-656-5995
Online: wiggleroom.biz

Hatch
This chic and timeless line of clothing, founded in 2011 by Ariane Goldman, is your online source for beautiful pieces for before, during, and after pregnancy. Slip on one of their tailored jumpsuits and you just might forget you’ve got a growing bump. While we’re coveting their everyday essentials and sweet sundresses, we’re especially in love with the Georgie Jumper: though it’s an investment at $278, adjustable straps and a racerback silhouette that allows for a supportive bra means you can wear it for nine months or more!

Online: hatchcollection.com

Well Dressed Mama
Concetta Aires, the mother-of-two and finance wizard behind Well Dressed Mama, knows that that adorable maternity or post-partum swing dress will not look nearly as adorable if you’re wearing an ill-fitting bra. Concetta also knows that, whether you’re dragging your feet through your third trimester or sleepwalking with a newborn, it’s h-a-r-d to leave the house to engage in any kind of self-care. Enter Well Dressed Mama’s concierge service, where Concetta comes to you to help you select and get fitted for nursing bras, tanks, pants, and shorts. Delivery for all products is free within Washington, D.C., and shipping outside of the District is free for orders over $100. Who knew you could get a pretty t-shirt bra that makes you feel good AND makes for easier nursing?

610-563-1740
Email: welldressedmamma@gmail.com
Online: welldressedmamma.com

Le Tote
If you’re grimacing at the idea of buying clothes you might only wear for one season, consider a subscription service—we love the glamorous maternity pieces offered by Le Tote (which you may have already used even before you had to consider your growing waistline). They offer plans with different quantities ($69/month gets you three pieces of clothing and two accessories, while $79/month gets you four pieces of clothing), and you can wear the pieces as many times as you’d like and return them when you’re ready for a refresh! Think: Summer & Sage athleisure, RIPE workwear, ikat print knot-front sundresses, and elegant lace yoke nursing dresses. Sign us up!

Online: letote.com

Bellies & Babies
Driven by the principles, “reduce, reuse, and rethink,” this family-owned and operated consignment shop carries everything from high-end baby, children’s, and maternity clothing as well as popular gear, toys, handmade gifts, and a small selection of popular retail items. Perhaps Bellies & Babies’ greatest asset is their maternity rental department, where you can find a wide selection of designer maternity dresses to borrow for any special occasion—rather than forking over hundreds of dollars for a gown you might only wear once. We also love their commitment to giving back to the community and families in need.

1913 Mt. Vernon Ave. (Alexandria, Va)
703-518-8908
Online: belliesbabies.com

PinkBlush
Trendy, affordable, and real: this site has the modern mother in mind and shares the model’s hip and bust measurements for all images of their clothing, so that you know what that split-sleeve midi dress is REALLY going to look like. They carry every accessory from belts to boots to socks, and boast an extensive line for plus-sized mamas. Plan ahead and treat yourself to one of their pretty delivery robes, too!

Online: pinkblushmaternity.com

Where do you go to shop for cool maternity clothes? Tell us in the comments below.

—Katie Brown

Science Says Forgetful Pregnancy “Baby Brain” Is Actually Real

by Shahrzad WarkentinJanuary 15, 2018

photo: pedroserapio/Pixabay

Every pregnant woman has experienced that phenomenon that seems to cloud your brain as your adorable baby bump continues to expand. No, you’re not losing your mind. Baby brain or mom brain might make you feel like a screw is loose, but in fact it is just one more of the challenging side effects of pregnancy. More research confirms what we’ve long suspected that pregnancy brain is 100 percent real.

A new study conducted by researchers at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia confirmed that cognitive function does in fact decline in women during pregnancy. The researchers analyzed data collected from 20 different studies on the subject of changes in cognition connected to pregnancy. The data used included 709 pregnant women and 521 non-pregnant women. The study concluded that pregnant women had lower overall cognitive function, memory, and executive function than non-pregnant women, especially during the third trimester.

More research is needed to determine how much of an impact this decline has on pregnant women, but as senior researcher Melissa Hayden explains, “These small reductions in performance across their pregnancy will be noticeable to the pregnant women themselves and perhaps by those close to them, manifesting mainly as minor memory lapses (e.g., forgetting or failing to book medical appointments). But more significant consequences (e.g., reduced job performance or impaired ability to navigate complex tasks) are less likely.”

Did you experience baby brain when you were pregnant? Share your thoughts in the comments.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

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From Parks to Perches: The Best Places in LA to Throw a Baby Shower

by Janelle ConnorAugust 9, 2017

It’s time to celebrate your favorite parents-to-be. The only question is, where? There are as many places to host baby showers in LA as there are fitness studios (and one of those actually made our list!). So we dug deep to find the most unique venues in the city. Read on to discover the best, and most unexpected places to host the expecting.

photo: Photography by Peerspace

Peerspace
Peerspace is to meeting venues what Airbnb is to overnight lodging. For an hourly rate, choose from a wide selection of rental properties around the city. Who knew planning a baby shower could be so much fun? With hundreds of cool places to choose from, there is a location to suit everyone’s taste. You can find a fully furnished bungalow in Venice with an outdoor patio, a bohemian chic cabin in the Hollywood Hills or even a soothing Downtown loft with an all white décor. Most locations have a 4-hour minimum, and some charge an additional fee for cleaning. Whether your budget is wallet-friendly or of no consequence, the ideal place to host is out there, and you won’t have to clean your home to host!

Online: peerspace.com

photo: Perch Restaurant

Perch LA
Perch offers some of the most exquisite views of downtown LA, making it the perfect place to celebrate mama bird before nesting begins. A few areas of the restaurant are available to rent, and each one maintains a totally unique set up. For groups of 22 or less, a seated brunch on the 5th street patio is the way to go. Bar Thirteen is another option which is located on the 13th floor of the building, overlooking Pershing Square. This space can accommodate up to 60 people and features a speakeasy décor, but guests will be so enamored by the views, they may not notice.

448 Hill St.
DTLA
213-802-1770
Online: perchla.com

photo: Lia N. via Yelp

Au Fudge
As soon as you set foot in this enchanted space, you’ll want to trade in your red soles for a pair of glass slippers. Staff will happily accommodate groups for brunch who choose either a semi-private or private room for the occasion. Part restaurant and part creative space, this WeHo gem will give the guest of honor a glimpse into her future. On-site childcare is available for an additional fee if guests would like to bring their own kids. Fairy tales come to life when little ones discover the secret door along the back wall. If that isn’t enough to wow them, head to the treehouse—they may never want to leave! Au Fudge is the sweetest place for groups who cherish magical moments and love precious things (like someone else watching your child while you eat a meal) and your chance to provide babysitting for parents who are expecting their second (or third or fourth…) bundle of joy.

9010 Melrose Ave.
West Hollywood
424-204-9228
Online: aufudge.com

photo: Côte Shop

Côte Shop
Every mama-to-be deserves a toxin-free pampering experience, and this nautical-themed nail space smells like a warm ocean breeze. Gather your best girls for an afternoon of pampering before those nails get chipped washing breast pump parts. Consider yourself warned before perusing the retail side as the eclectic jewelry and children’s gifts are impossible to leave on the shelf. With the option of a partial or full buyout (additional per service charges apply), you can order in food and decorate as you like. Pizzana and SusieCakes are right next door which makes this is a decadent one-stop shop for all your hosting needs.

11714 San Vicente Blvd.
Brentwood
310-820-0906
Online: coteshop.co

photo: Jack Miller via Creative Commons

Malibu Bluffs Park
Laid back folks looking for some fun in the sun should make a reservation at Malibu Bluffs Park. This six-acre community park caters to large groups, so extending an invite to guests and their families, is a no brainer. There’s a playground for toddlers and big kids (recommended for ages 2-12), a soccer field, baseball diamonds and even hiking trails. Visitors will inevitably wander from the picnic tables to explore the park and walk on the bluffs before returning for the melted chocolate diaper game. With incredible panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, it’s a park like no other. There’s a whale watching deck equipped with telescopes, and they even allow alcohol (beer and wine must be consumed in a tent) on the premises, unlike most city and state parks in LA. Did someone say rosé? Cheers!

24250 Pacific Coast Highway
Malibu
310-317-1364
Online: ci.malibu.ca.us/Facilities/Facility/Details/Malibu-Bluffs-Park-6

photo: PS818

Public School 818
If men are from Mars and women are from Venus, PS 818 is Earth. This Sherman Oaks gastropub caters to both sexes and feels upscale yet unpretentious. The private dining room offers a relaxed vibe that will make this spot an instant favorite for all grownups. Guests will enjoy an array of craft beer and delicious bites while playing traditional baby shower games or forgoing them all together in favor of beer pong and the biggest Jenga you’ve ever seen. Friends will not only rave about your shower but keep this winner on tap for all their events.

15300 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks
818-728-9818
Online: psontap.com/locations/ps818

photo: SLS Hotel Beverly Hills

SLS Hotel Beverly Hills—SLS Suite and Altitude Pool
For an intimate gathering and the ultimate indulgence, book an SLS Suite and treat the girls to one of the more luxurious experiences in LA. Welcome guests with a champagne toast en suite and then make your way to a reserved cabana at the Altitude pool (additional fee for the cabana and a food/beverage minimum is required). Savor light fare and sip signature cocktails while enjoying spectacular views of LA. As guests lounge poolside, the Concierge Team will set up, tailor and decorate the room to your preferences. After spending the better part of the afternoon relaxing, return to the suite and shower the guest-of-honor with cake, presents and well wishes. Then load the gifts in her car and take off; of all the gifts they receive, your parents-to-be will be most grateful for the overnight stay.

465 S La Cienega Blvd.
Beverly Hills
310-247-0400
Online: slshotels.com/beverlyhills

photo: SoulCycle

SoulCycle (Culver City)
While some women can barely walk in their third trimester, others seem to have more pep in their step than ever. If your mama-to-be is the latter type, hosting at SoulCycle is a blast. For those die-hard fitness fans, nothing could be more exhilarating than rounding up the squad and going for a soulful ride. Known for their electrifying playlists and talented instructors, SoulCycle promises an invigorating experience that accommodates every level of rider. After the heart-pumping/mind-blowing 45 minute class, riders are welcome to convene on the spacious terrace for refreshments and any other goodies you wish to provide.

8820 Washington Blvd.
Culver City
310-322-7685
Online: soul-cycle.com/studios/clvr/1038

Do you have a secret spot for showering your expectant besties? Let us know in the comment section!

—Janelle Connor

My Gestational Diabetes Ignorance

By Laurie Sage

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

December 1, 2016

Photo: Jessica Merz via Flickr Creative Commons

I’m one of those people who associate diabetes with being unhealthy, so never did I imagine that I, a vegetarian and a runner, could be diagnosed with gestational diabetes. My ignorance got the best of me when I failed my glucose tests.

At least once a week, I’d see posts from various Facebook friends expressing nerves about an upcoming glucose test, celebrating a passed glucose test, or sharing devastation about failing. I never understood the hoopla, and walked into my test thinking there was absolutely no way I could have it. Pre-pregnancy I hovered around the 110 mark, continued exercising during pregnancy, gained the right amount of weight, and ate fairly well. I was totally in the clear, right?

Wrong! Wrong, wrong, wrong. When my doctor called me to tell me I failed the one-hour test and needed to set up a three-hour-test I was shocked. I was more shocked when my results for the three-hour-test came back positive.

I went directly into Google mode. Gestational diabetes doesn’t discriminate, though you have a higher chance of getting it if you’re 25 or older, have had it with a previous pregnancy, given birth previously to a baby more than nine pounds, have family members with type 2 diabetes, are obese, have a history of prediabetes, or part of specific ethnic groups. Besides the additional risk factors, women, even the fittest of women, can develop it because pregnancy hormones can block your insulin production, which you need to break down sugar.

Following my diagnosis, my doctor set me up with two classes at the hospital: a nutrition class and a blood test class.

At the nutrition class we were given handouts of what foods are carbs, the amount of carbs we should have at each meal, how to pair proteins and good fats with carbs, and that we should be eating well balanced meals five times a day – three meals and two snacks. We filled out sheets as to what we can eat daily, and were quizzed on how many servings pre-packaged food actually contained.

To say I was overwhelmed is an understatement. I walked out in tears: In addition to feeling overwhelmed by my new diet that I thought was unattainable, it hit me that I had already failed at being a mother and I haven’t even given birth. Gestational diabetes puts your unborn child at risk of injuries during birth because GD babies tend to be larger, low blood sugar and mineral levels at birth, jaundice, preterm birth, breathing issues, and still-birth.

My husband is extremely health conscious and helped me with a meal plan right away. Adjusting to the diet ended up being the easy part of the diagnosis. I already was eating the right foods, I just needed to portion and pair them correctly. My day now consisted of the following:

Breakfast:

– Oatmeal with flaxseeds and skim milk

Mid-morning snack:

– Non-fat Greek yogurt with strawberries

Lunch:

– Tofurkey and cheese sandwich

Afternoon snack:

– Orange and string cheese

Dinner:

– Egg white sandwich

I still regularly took spin classes and yoga, so I would add in an extra snack, which would consist of either carrots and hummus, or a serving of walnuts. I’d “indulge” with a Yasso Greek frozen yogurt bar, as well.

The blood test class was the following week. Though I’ve long gotten over my fear of needles, the finger prick was always the most painful in my opinion. I was pretty nervous to do this to myself. In this class we were given the kit that our insurance covered, then went around the room and one at a time, tested our blood. It took me a few tries because I was so scared! I wasn’t pressing it close enough to my finger to actually draw blood, but when I did, it wasn’t painful at all, which is good because I’d be doing it four times a day until baby arrived!

Like I said, the new diet was the easy part, scheduling the blood tests gave me anxiety regularly. I tested my blood first thing in the morning, then an hour after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Before I’d leave for work in the morning I had already pricked my finger twice. I had to time my breakfast so that I would still be home to test my blood in an hour and then leave for work and still get there on time. Between that, and my almost hour-long NYC commute in the warm weather while in my third trimester, by the time I got to work I was already stressed out.

The diagnosis taught me so much about food (I haven’t eaten ketchup since!) and how to eat a balanced meal. I tracked my carb intake and my blood sugar with the miser Logbook app, and because I stuck to my strict plan, my numbers were always perfect! I was so proud that I was able to keep my GD in check and keep baby healthy!

Do you have a story to share with our readers? We want to hear it! Sign up for our Spoke Contributor Network and start submitting your writing today.

Laurie Sage

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

I'm a preemie mommy trying my best to navigate my new life as a working mom. I miss sleep, spin class, and trashy reality television, but wouldn't trade it for the world!

The Ultimate Guide to Meeting New Mom Friends

by rtkristinhelmsJune 1, 2016

There’s no reason to navigate the open seas of motherhood alone. It’s time to find a crew of fellow new mamas who know exactly what you’re going through — blowouts, sleepless nights and all! Trust us – their advice and support will be indispensable during the first weeks, months and years of parenting. But how can you find these much-needed friends? Follow our ultimate guide to meeting new mom friends. It’s packed with ideas on where and how to find your new tribe of moms who rock.

1. Prenatal Hospital Classes

Most hospitals hold “new parent classes” for you and your partner to attend while in your third trimester. This is the perfect opportunity to pick-up on some new mom friends who are also first-time-moms learning Parenting, Childbirth or Breastfeeding 101. And what better way to strike up a conversation, and some laughs, while both trying to secure a diaper on a creepy baby doll?

Why these moms rock: Chances are, if you’re both in the same third trimester parenting classes, you’ll both be delivering within a few months of each other which means your new babes will be close in age, which means you’ll both be going through the same motherhood journey at the same time (think baby milestones, sleep regressions, and feeding woes). Strike up a conversation with these fellow first time mamas by asking when their due date is or if they’re having a boy or a girl. You can bet you’ll have a lot in common right off the bat!

2. Baby Aisles

If you’re pregnant, or even if you’ve already welcomed your precious new bundle, chances are you’re spending a lot of time in the “baby aisles” of stores like Target, Buy Buy Baby or the grocery store. These aisles are sort of like gold mines filled with other moms and babies. If you see a mom with an infant the same age as your own, or a similar sized baby bump, then jump into a friendly conversation about baby products.

Why these moms rock: Most moms love giving advice or sharing their recommendations on favorite baby gear items. Ask a fellow mom who’s also hovering the baby aisles if she’s ever tried a certain bottle or if she’s had any luck with a certain sound machine. Before you know it you’ll be swapping notes and maybe even a future playdate.

3. Mom Support Groups

Sometimes you need to turn to the experts and join a mom support group led by a professional. Bonus: the pro can help you through some challenges you may be facing with your little one. Lactation support groups, sleep training classes and the like are great opportunities to meet fellow moms who are experiencing the same rough patches as you.

Why these moms rock: There’s nothing like talking to another mom who knows exactly what you’re going through and can sympathize about only getting two hours of sleep per night or not being able to find the perfect latch. These mom-type support groups are full of women who can easily relate to you and maybe even offer tips or tricks that you haven’t thought of yet. These are your people.

4. Meetup.com

Sites like Meetup.com can provide many mommy meet-up groups to select from. You can even join many groups while still pregnant so you can make friends before the babe arrives! We recommend researching what each group is about, looking at their past meet-up activities, reading some of the group member’s profiles, and then joining a group (or groups) that you feel you connect with the most.

Why these moms rock: If you’ve all joined a mommy meet-up group, there’s no question that these fellow moms are in the market for new mom friends. You can leave caution at the door and jump right into friendships at these playdates because you already know that you’re both there for the same reasons; to meet awesome, like-minded moms like yourself, of course.

5. New Mom Friendship Apps and Websites

Welcome to 2015 where you can browse immediate answers to all of your late night mommy questions on the internet, order diapers on Amazon shipped straight to your door, and now, even find fellow mom friends with just the click of a button. New apps like the MomCo app connect you with other moms and kid-friendly events and businesses in your neighborhood, while sites like Hello Mamas helps pair you with friends at every stage of the motherhood journey.

Why these moms rock: They’re tech-savvy, like yourself, in your immediate neighborhood and looking for fun activities to attend with other mamas and babies. Now that’s convenient!

Photo credit: The Mommy Project, San Diego

6. Mommy and Me Fitness Classes

Once you’re ready to get moving again after baby is born, you’ll probably be looking for ways to incorporate workouts into your new daily routine – only this time, you have a cute little sidekick in tow. Look up baby-friendly fitness classes in your area like, Mommy and Me Yoga, Stroller Strides, Baby Wearing Barre, or Fit 4 Mom exercise classes. These are all perfect opportunities to meet other active moms and their precious babes.

Why these moms rock: Since you’re both making an effort to incorporate physical activity into your new #momlife routine, you know you automatically have something in common. After class is over, strike up a conversation and invite them to go walking with you and your new little bundle every Tuesday morning. And remember, friends who sweat together, stay together.

7. Facebook Groups

Facebook Mom groups are awesome because you can really narrow down your search to be as specific as you’d like. If you’re super interested in baby wearing, baby sleep training or baby led weaning, there’s most likely a Facebook mom group to fit every interest! Just type in your area of interest or a topic you’d like to learn more about and join in on the online conversations.

Why these moms rock: These groups are a great resource filled with fellow moms who feel just as passionately as you do about providing the best for their babies. The camaraderie you’ll feel with these women will make you feel less alone and may even lead to some in-person meet-ups and friendships, not to mention some great parenting tips.

8. Baby Classes

Signing up for cute baby classes is a great way to incorporate fun activities with your wee one into your weekly routine, not to mention the perfect environment to find new mom friends. Search your city for classes suitable for your baby’s age, like music classes, baby sign language or baby story time at your local library. There’s nothing cuter than being in a room full of fellow moms and adorable babies while you’re all singing songs or reading books together.

Why these moms rock: You’re sure to bond with these women as you all take a million photos of your little ones staring at each other in awe or shaking their maracas together in complete baby chaos. It’s also a great opportunity to ask another mom and her baby out for coffee after class is over.

Where did you meet your mommy friends? Share in the comments below.

-Kristin Helms

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