Thursday, May 31, 2012

Christian's series of birthday parties

Christian's turning 3!

Why do I feel the need to celebrate ridiculously for Christian's birthday..? Because he deserves it! Today's date is May 31, 2012. Christian's birthday isn't until June 6. So far, we've had a Chuck E. Cheese party, a swimming/watergun party, and we're still going to Nashville Shores next weekend. Here's some pics so far...

Chuck E Cheese racing game

Chuck E Cheese cake

Yummy (:
Playing in the water

Jump!

Hitting the homemade spiderman pinata his "yaya" (grandmother) made

He was so happy everyone was clapping for him!

Blowing out the candal!

Spraying Daddy

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Skin isn't a sin: A breastfeeding memoir

You know what they say...  Breast is best.


When I decided to breastfeed my boys I really didn't know much about it. I quit around the time Christian was four months old. This time, with Ian, I was determined to make it further and to not have to rely strictly on a pump. I've done a lot more research this time and have been attending classes. It has definitely paid off. I wish I had known all of this with Christian. It's so easy! When 3a.m rolls around and Ian wakes, there is no having to go downstairs for a bottle, warming, feeding, washing, and then back to sleep. I simply...feed.
One of my major obstacles was nursing in public. I thought I would hear, "OMG! She's flashing her boobies!!" Nope. I've only heard one negative comment, "That breastfeeding nonsense is for the birds!" Oh, is it? Hmm.Check out THIS link! Breastfeeding is not only beneficial for baby, but mom as well! Just look at me! I've lost 34lbs since Ian was born. I feel amazing! Ian is the happiest baby and Christian is hardly ever sick! Now, I'm not going to get on a long spill about how breast is best. There is no arguing that fact. However, I would like to add a disclaimer* so nobody gets their feelings hurt.

Here's a look into my breastfeeding journey so far:


Breastfeeding just hours after his birth.

Hanging on in his favorite place in the world, Momma's chest.

Feeding Ian at the Memphis Zoo

Feeding Ian at the Zoo



Feeding Ian at Okeena Park


I think that breastfeeding is the most natural, beautiful thing a woman can offer her child. It is, however, a learning experience. I urge you to please seek help if you have trouble breastfeeding. I've hit a couple bumps in the road and even shed some tears but with the support of other breastfeeding mommies, it's now smooth sailing!

Thanks for taking time to read!
--Hollidy Kaye Magadan

*There are certain medications some women have to take that make breastfeeding dangerous, difficult, or even impossible. While breast is certainly best, it is important to understand that it isn't possible for everyone and passing judgement is just as wrong for non-breastfeeding mother, as it is towards breastfeeding mothers. We are all mothers doing what's best!