Mi Pancita

A Birth Story, Joaquin Henry

2013-05-13T21:20:00.001-07:00

Overdue by four days and after a midwife appointment at which I was told to hold tight for another week or so, my water broke. In reality and especially for a first pregnancy I realized I had more of a "due month" than a due date and although I was anxious to meet my sweet boy I knew he would come when he was ready. I loved being pregnant. I felt humongous, walked with a waddle and giggle and had certainly gained more than any chart would recommend. But I was happy and in love with the little one I had yet to meet and the man I had created him with. I felt relaxed and having read almost anything I could get my hands on about midwifery, natural child birth and the like, I felt prepared. So says the first time Mom...
It was 10:30 pm, Mr. and I lay in bed staring up at the darkness talking when I heard and felt a "pop" on the top of my belly. It wasn't painful at all, just like someone gave me a good thump on the pancita. I asked Mr. if he had heard anything as I sat up in bed. Of course he hadn't. I walked to the bathroom a few steps away still unsure of what had happened and then I realized as the water appeared on the floor, my water had broken. A bit alarmed at the sight of blood as well I asked Mr. to call the midwives. During a short conversation on the phone in which the midwife suggest I head to the hospital as a precaution and because of the amount of blood I experienced my first contraction. It had been about ten minutes since my water had broken. At the hospital the nurses where expecting us. Our midwife, Lisa had called ahead and we were escorted to the "maybe baby room". Here I was monitored as well as the baby and the nurse checked me. At about this time I started to feel nauseous. As the nurse was explaining that my water had broken, everything looked fine ant that I was about 4 centimeters dilated I threw up all over.I was completely caught off guard and was totally embarrassed I had hadn't even been able to make it to the trash. Humility is just one of the many things I learned to accept in childbirth.The nurse advised that we could go home or stay, it was really up to us. After all of my readying and research about laboring at home versus the hospital and the horrendous smell of vomit in my hair we headed home.
At home I showered and tried to relax and even sleep (it was the middle of the night). The contractions where slowly getting stronger so I wasn't able to sleep. I gathered a few things for my hospital bag and worked through some contractions hunched over the side of the bed. The house was dark and quiet and remember feeling calm, studious and happy. When the pain became almost unbearable I told Mr. it was time to head back to the hospital. It was 4 am. As we were leaving I started to feel nausea again. Something I hadn't expected and it alarmed me a little. After arriving at the hospital, a five minute drive from our home, we were directed into a delivery room right away. I was checked and told that I was 7 centimeters dilated. Mr.being the typical novice first time Daddy and a very loving husband called my parents who promptly drove to the hospital. It was 5:30 am. I had gotten sick a few times since arriving at the hospital so I was given a walking IV for fluids and nausea medicine. I walked the halls to help the labor along, puked in a bucket held my Mr.and grasping his arm or the wall railing during contractions. My Dad peeked in on us and Mr. chatted it up with the ladies at the nursing station. The contractions where getting more painful and so the nurses prepared the jacuzzi tub for me. I am immeasurably thankful to have delivered at a hospital that offered a jacuzzi tub to labor in. I dozed between contractions and watched Mr. sleep beside the tub. We had been up all night. After an hour in the tub and contractions that where getting closer together the midwife checked my progress once I was back in the delivery room. I was 9 1/2 centimeters dilated. The pain was overwhelming and I asked for something to manage it. I was given pain medication via an IV. Lisa, our Midwife explained to me that the baby was facing my thigh, not my tailbone as he should be. To get the baby to turn on his own I labored on my side a while. It worked. The baby turned and it was now time to start pushing. I had no "urge" to push. Not once. I simply pushed with the contractions as Mr. held one leg and a delivery nurse the other. The midwife was there the entire time. Talking to me, encouraging me. I delivered the baby's head after 45 minutes of pushing and a tremendous amount of pain. I was sure the worst was over. But after being unable to deliver the rest of the baby easily I panicked. What! Isn't the head the hardest part? Up until this point I had been able to calm myself. I was built to do this after all. My body was built to do this. Woman do this all over the world with very little if any help at all. Woman have done this since the beginning of time. I can do this. This had been my mantra. The pain medication I was given "takes the edge off". It did not make it go away. It dulled it and I was afraid. When the nurses and the midwife told me there would have to be one more big push to deliver the baby's shoulders I said, NO! No, no, no. I cant. Two contractions came and went and I did nothing. I didn't push. I panicked. The entire room emphatically answered back. Yes, you can! You have to do this! My Mr. looked me in the face, "you can do this!" And I did and not without the worst pain I have ever felt to date. Joaquin was placed on my chest and I remember him being wrinkled and bluish in color. He was beautiful. A nurse handed me a small oxygen tube and asked me to hold it under the babies face. I did what I was told. I had stressed my little guy out having him in the birth canal. After a few seconds of oxygen the baby began to cry. He was so small and had so much hair! Like a full grown person walking down the street amount of hair. The nurse asked to take the baby to an Isolette near my bedside to weigh and measure him. The announced his weight, 9 pounds 3 ounces. I began to cry. At that moment I was told also that the baby had low blood sugar and would have to be taken to the NICU, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. I still absorbing this miracle of what had taken place was speechless. I remember saying okay and looking at my husband with wide eyes. Go with the baby I told him and they quickly left the room wheeling the Isolette down the hall.The midwife was busying about her job of tending to me. There where so many things happening. Some of my family arrived in the room missing my Mr. and the baby by moments. As soon as I could stand I was allowed to see the baby in the NICU. They had given him an IV and feed him an ounce of formula. Looking back and knowing what I do know I would have tried and nursed my son immediately. Even as the nurses put me back together. My baby boy needed to eat! They monitored him for two days until his blood sugar evened out. I nursed him in the NICU and there was no further need for formula after that initial ounce. He never lost any weight as most newborns do. This kid was born to eat! I remember being incredibly thankful for the my Midwife Lisa and the labor and delivery nurses. They were all so kind, attentive and knowledgeable. Even the counseling and couching, encouragement I received in my prenatal visits proved indispensable. We delivered this baby together, all of us. Expect the Unexpected I was told. Make an ideal birth plan and expect in NOT to go that way. My hope is that many more women are able to have the support, education and medical care that I and my newborn baby had. I remain in awe of myself, my children and of the men and women that devote there lives to helping nurture and care for mothers and babies around the world. As part of Save The Children's Annual State Of The Worlds Mothers (SOWM) report I am honored to recall the births of my two children this month. This post will be shared on The Gates Foundation Blog as well as Babble.com as part of my association with Mom Bloggers For Social Good.

A Birth Story, Stella Anita

2013-05-06T20:37:00.000-07:00

What a wondrous ability we have been bestowed with. We woman, we mothers, we earthly beings. This miracle of creation. I remain in awe of myself, my children and of the men and women that devote there lives to helping nurture and care for mothers and babies around the world. As part of Save The Children's Annual State Of The Worlds Mothers (SOWM) report I am honored to recall the births of my two children this month.

From the first fluttering deep in my belly to the nursing of my sweet babes the first and every time. We are miraculous beings. Never have I felt more purpose on earth and connection with my body then during my pregnancies and during the labor and delivery of my children. I first shared Stellita's birth story here a week after she was born. Joaquin's birth story was written in a journal, before I started blogging and I have yet to share it here. Both days I remember with immeasurable joy and amazement. As different as my two children are so too are their birth stories. My labor was incredibly short with Stella, my second child. Four hours from when I woke with the pinch of contractions to her actual arrival qualifies as quick I think, no? I hesitate to say it was "easy" because giving birth just isn't, you mothers know. Frankly though once my water broke Stella was born within seven minutes and two pushes. And so goes the story of Stella Anita's birth.

via Save The Children

I woke with moderate contractions at 3 am. They were not contractions I could ignore and already about 5 to 7 minutes apart. Mr. and I quietly packed up a very asleep baby Joaquin and dropped him at my parents house a few minutes away. It was a week before my due date. My Mom and Dad met us in the night air in front of there house with smiles and wide eyes. Today would be the day! We left them with Joaquin and headed up the hill to Feather River Hospital 30 minutes away. It was 3:45 am. My midwife, whom I like very much had gently lectured me that this labor could go very fast and to be "prepared". She mentioned that I may not have enough time to make the 30 minute drive to Paradise hospital where the midwives deliver babies. I may have to go directly to Enloe Hospital just a few minutes from my home where a Doctor would be overseeing my labor and delivery. Having had an extremely positive experience with the midwife during my sons labor and delivery I convinced myself we had enough time to make the drive. We arrived at just about 4 am and I was bracing and breathing through now with every contraction. Although I new I was getting close and my contractions were getting really intense at about 3 minutes apart I had no idea how close. We got into a room and the nurse checked me stating I was 8 centimeters dilated. Everyone started scattering and darting and my Mr. seemed to disappear for a few minutes perhaps to spread the news? I tried to make myself comfortable. The quick feet and rustling about from the nurses did not effect my calm. I was going to meet my baby girl soon! Walking around the room and letting my belly hang down as I held the side of the bed, rocking side to side proved helpful. The midwife arrived and promptly checked me and asked if I felt the need to push. Um, really? No. I was fully dilated but had no urge to push. While I wanted a natural child birth at this point and with my previous birthing experience I asked the midwife if I could have a pain killer of some sort. I was still experiencing an manageable pain level but was thinking ahead of what I was sure to come. She quickly told me that there was "no time" for it. "The baby was coming". I panicked just a bit. My son being only 17 months old at the time the memory of his rather painful and drawn out labor and delivery was fresh in my mind. After a few more contractions and moving to lie on the bed I asked her again if there was anyway they could give me something for the pain. Her reply was the same and this time she addressed my Mr. as well. Perhaps he had panic on his face too? Or rather she was looking for him to reassure? She was kind and yet direct and having complete confidence in my midwife I accepted her answer. I would do this completely natural and it would be okay, I told myself. I was scared. Nauseous at this point I thought I was going to get sick. Maybe I even did get sick, my husband would most definitely remember that bit of detail. The pressure of the baby was very uncomfortable (like she was pressing down on my tail bone).Reaching the unbearable I announced I was going to sit up or stand to try and relieve the pressure I was feeling. Standing proved very helpful with my sons delivery as did walking around. There was a quick glance between nurse and midwife (the only other people in the room aside from Mr. and I). Just then as I turned my body to the side to get lift myself up my water broke and the pressure was instantly gone. I laid back down and as the midwife took her post an enormous contraction came over me. I had read and heard about the "need" to push but hadn't experienced it with my first labor and delivery. I never once had the "need" to push when delivering my son. I pushed when I was told to, with a contraction. Whammo! There was no way I wasn't going to push with what I was feeling this time. It was as if my entire body was working to push the baby out without me. The midwife was ready and with another overwhelming contraction Stellita was born. It was 7:12 am. She was tiny and pink and nursed within minutes. My eyes scanned over her admiring every detail. She had trouble staying warm for the first few hours so I held her skin to skin as much as I could and she spent some time in the Isolette under heat lamps near my bedside. I was immediately grateful for the attention and care she received from the nurses. I was in complete awe and remain so to this day. Stella is asleep a few inches away from me now as I write this. My almost three year old baby girl. She remains true to her birth story. Fiery and quick and I love her.I plan to share Joaquin's birth story, a very different experience and one that sealed my faith in midwifery and the care given in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), on Mother's Day as he is the one that made me a mother. Come back if you wish and please share with me your birthing stories.

This post will be shared on The Gates Foundation Blog as well as Babble.com as part of my association with Mom Bloggers For Social Good. To close I'd like to share lovely Save The Children video featuring Jennifer Garner, Rachel Zoe, Alyson Hannigan and Jennifer Connelly reflecting on some first moments with baby.

InstaFriday

2013-04-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

Another week, another Friday and I would probably be at a total loss as to what I actually did if it were not in part for my iPhone photos. I realized as I attached these photos I have a duplicate but asi es mi vida ahora miso. I think you'll forgive me. I forgive me. Both mis bebes are growing as quickly as my garden it seems. They have stolen my heart all over again and I stand in utter amazement just as I did on the days they were born. If I do nothing else while on this earth I will be content to have in part created and seen these creatures grow. I am looking forward to the weekend, BBQ, bike rides and star gazing and mostly having Mr. home for a couple days, a short work week and celebrating his birthday on the 1st! Roadtrip anyone?! whoot, whoot!! By the way did anyone see the full moon last night? It was gigantic!

Linking to InstaFriday at LifeRearranged.

Earth Day Opportunity

2013-04-21T14:36:00.000-07:00

JQ on a field trip to a local soil farm

Just like Valentines Day and Mothers Day it isn't at all bad to have an actual reminder on the calender to recognize someone or something. Earth Day is no different. Some of us need that extra little incentive to perhaps reevaluate an aspect of our life. Look at Earth Day as an opportunity. Whether it be how and what we eat, where we spend our hard earned dollars or what type of footprint we are leaving on the earth this is a chance, a reminder, an opportunity to change for the better. As a Mami I am consistently planting seeds in the minds of my little ones. The importance of empathy, respecting the Earth, or philanthropy my purpose, my job at this time in my life is to instill these things in my children by example. We are lucky enough to live in an area that for the most part is very "green" both as a community and environmentally. We have one of the largest municipal parks less than a mile away. We can easily make our way to natural food stores, green waste, and soil farms. Our city was once named one of the most bike friendly in the country!So like almost everyday, we will be outside on Earth Day. Being outside and in natural landscapes has always been important to me. I am fortunate to be able to share that with my children and help them to respect and enjoy it as well.
Al igual que el Día de San Valentín y Día de la Madre no es del todo malo tener un recordatorio de lo contrario, el calendario de reconocer a alguien o algo. Día de la Tierra no es diferente. Algunos de nosotros necesitamos ese pequeño incentivo extra para reevaluar quizá un aspecto de nuestra vida. Mira Día de la Tierra como una oportunidad. Ya se trate de la forma y lo que comemos, donde pasamos nuestros dólares ganados duros o qué tipo de huella que dejamos en la tierra, esta es una oportunidad, un recordatorio, una oportunidad de cambiar para mejor. Como Mami estoy plantando constantemente semillas en la mente de mis pequeños. La importancia de la empatía, el respeto a la tierra, o la filantropía mi propósito, mi trabajo en este momento en mi vida es la de inculcar estas cosas en mis hijos con el ejemplo. Tenemos la suerte de vivir en una zona que en su mayor parte es muy "verde", tanto como comunidad y el medio ambiente. Tenemos uno de los mayores parques municipales de menos de una milla de distancia. Fácilmente podemos hacer nuestro camino a las tiendas de alimentos naturales, desechos verdes y granjas del suelo. Nuestra ciudad una vez fue nombrada como una de las más bike friendly en el país! Así como casi todos los días, vamos a estar fuera en el día de la Tierra. Estar al aire libre y en los paisajes naturales ha sido siempre importante para mí. Tengo la suerte de poder compartir con mis hijos y ayudarles a respetar y disfrutar de ella también.

My little ones are often (very often) barefoot in the yard. We get dirty. We touch, smell and observe things in nature. The understand food comes from plants and trees and also from the store. They freely pluck tomatoes and peas and broccoli from the yard. Stella sings to the moon and stars at night and we eagerly what a blue jay devour a worm in the morning. and two and four they don't know about pollution and the bigger picture but they do know we don't throw trash on the ground. They know worms are good for the garden and plants need clean water and sunshine to grow. I am thankful for this small reminder on my calender to do more in the way of living a cleaner, greener lifestyle.

Mis pequeños son a menudo (muy a menudo) descalzo en el patio. Nos ensuciamos. Nos tocamos, olemos y observamos las cosas en la naturaleza. La comida Entienda proviene de las plantas y árboles, así como de la tienda. Ellos libremente arrancan los tomates y los guisantes y brócoli en el patio. Stella le canta a la luna y las estrellas en la noche y con entusiasmo lo que un arrendajo azul devorar un gusano en la mañana. y dos y cuatro que no saben acerca de la contaminación y la imagen más grande, pero sí saben que no se tire basura en el suelo. Ellos saben que los gusanos son buenos para el jardín y las plantas necesitan agua limpia y el sol para crecer. Estoy agradecido por este pequeño recordatorio en mi calendario para hacer más en la forma de vivir un estilo de vida más limpio y verde.

Now through April 30th Beautorium is offering up to 20% off site wide. Try natural beauty products and celebrate Earth Day! Save up to 20% on Great Natural Beauty Brands

InstaFriday

2013-04-19T17:00:00.001-07:00

Its become my Friday ritual. Reflecting on some of this weeks events via my Instagram photos. This week I realized as long as we are together, we really would be fine regardless of where we find ourselves. Be it Baltimore, L.A., Emeryville, Ventura or Chico I've really, really got everything I need. I am not as attached to our material things as I once might have been. The Adventure is much more fun...

What Wittle Stella Wore

2013-04-17T10:44:00.000-07:00

She insists she is big enough to go to Preschool with brother. To wear lipstick and not hold hands on walks. She is not interested in being my sweet bebe anymore. Yesterday she was over the moon as she and I tagged along on one of JQ's school field trips. She told me very confidently, looking over her shoulder, that she was going to school and took off with the other kids. Off she went without hesitation. Sitting beside the other little ones wagging her legs back and forth under the bench. Partaking in activities and following instruction.Both mis bebes seem so eager to "be big kids" which I can vaguely remember wanting to do the same at one time. All I keep thinking is please don't hurry to grow up. Milk this baby thing for as long as you can little ones!!

We are linking up to What Kids Wore today. A fun little kiddo fashion link up hosted my One Little Momma. Stella Wore an OshKosh blouse, Calvin Klein leggings and Hunter boots. I have just discovered Wittlebee.com for kids clothes. A bit late to the game as always, perdon! What a fabulous idea though! Like many of the other monthly mail services like diapers and woman's clothing, makeup and even men's clothing now. This company takes the headache out of shopping for our little ones at the store where someone is sure to have a meltdown or take off down an aisle or two. I love this as a gift for new Mom or as a gift from Grandparents or anyone that has a tough time putting together outfits for their kids.

Egg Shells In The Garden- Monday

2013-04-15T09:39:00.002-07:00

There are egg shells in the garden and coffee grounds in the flower bed. The sun blankets the patio and for the first time this year my little ones search for la sombra in the nooks of our green overgrown yard. Unconvincingly my bare shoulders and knees burn a bit as I find little things to do amongst the buzzing lilac and budding hydrangea. My mind is quiet and calm as I inspect a budding Tomatillo flower or crush Rosemary between my fingers. We eat lunch on a blanket in the grass and drag our craft bucket from the house into the shade. My sweet brood scratch out gifts for one another with washable markers and butterfly stickers. "sanks" says one "welcome" says the other. Frida our plump fawn pug trots by and I notice she's been a canvas for pink and blue chalk. It's a new look that she doesn't seem to mind my mouth curling to a grin. The fire bowl is set for tonight. The sky will be smothered in stars. Fresh cilantro has been nipped from the garden and broccoli too. Edith Pilaf's voice seeps from the living room stereo and I can't imagine another place I'd rather be. No fancy parties of lavish spa dates for me today. No theatre tickets or shopping sprees please. I've already found everything I need, here in our lovely green and overgrown yard.

Hay cáscaras de huevo en el jardín y café en la cama de flores. El sol cubre el patio y por la primera vez este año, mis pequeños búsqueda la sombra en los rincones de nuestro patio cubierto de verde. Poco convincente mis hombros desnudos y las rodillas quemar un poco como encontrar pequeñas cosas para hacer, entre el zumbido lilas y hortensias en ciernes. Mi mente está serena y tranquila como yo inspeccionar una flor en ciernes Tomatillo o romero aplastar entre los dedos. Comimos almuerzo en una manta en el césped y arrastrar nuestro cubo oficio de la casa en la sombra. Mi dulce cría ganarse regalos para unos a otros con marcadores lavables y pegatinas de mariposas. "sanks", dice una "por nada", dice el otro. Frida nuestros gordos cervatillo pug y me doy cuenta de que ha sido una lona para la tiza de color rosa y azul. Es una nueva mirada que ella no parece importarle mi boca se encrespa a una sonrisa. El tazón de fuego está lista para esta noche. El cielo estará cubierto de estrellas. Cilantro fresco ha sido cortada desde el jardín y el brócoli también. La voz bella de Edith Pilaf escurre desde el estéreo sala de estar y no puedo imaginar otro lugar en el que preferiría estar. Ninguna parte de lujo de spa de lujo data para mí hoy. Sin billetes para el teatro o salidas de compras por favor. Ya he encontrado todo lo que necesitas, aquí en nuestro patio verde precioso.

Linking Here, Here and Here.

InstaFriday Photos

2013-04-12T09:17:00.002-07:00

Thank goodness for these little photo reminders that although I am exhausted from this week, it was a wonderful seven days with my little family. We found the fun and beauty in the everyday even though sometimes it's not so easy. 1. (top left)Crazy windy weather and a 10 minute break between rain showers makes for a great excuse to run over to the Elementary School grass area and fly a kite. We grabbed Buzz from the depths of the garage and had fun until Stella let go of his string and he flew onto the roof...Maybe two year olds shouldn't be in charge of flying the kite? 2. Dogwood blooms are something I look forward to every Spring. The pink ones are my favorite. 3. We have been having ice cream almost everyday. I KNOW! It's just that the 75 degree weather and playing in the sprinkler has us all confused that it is Summer or something and plus who can resist Rocky Road? Obv. I can't. 4. Kiddos playing at the park. I love that they are playing together even when we are out and about with other kids. 5. Stella has been seriously hungry lately and going into the kitchen and opening cupboards and the fridge on her own. It totally freaks me out and so do these pink fangs left over from Halloween! 6. We celebrated my Grandpa's 80th at a Basque restaurant and took up nearly the entire place. It was a mad house, crazy, busy, kids everywhere but the food was really delicious.

1. I tried a Guadalajara Mix of chile's and seeds to marinate some bistec for Mr. It ended up the clove flavor was way too much for our liking. Do you cook with clove? Bleeh. 2. More gorgeous weather means a blanket in the grass.3. Joaquin has fallen (back) in love with his train set. I took the train table out of the nursery because his train track menagerie is way big with all sorts of connections and bridges and such. They fill the entire floor, so much fun! 4. Mis Padres brought back this pottery bride and mariachi for me from Mexico. I love them but have them tucked away in my room for fear the kiddos might try and play with them. There are very, very few things in my house that the kids can't play with. Is your house like that or do you have hands off areas/rooms? 5. Joaquin busted these adorable faces out yesterday morning. He told me one is PopBee, one GiGi and one him. I am going to put these in his book. I'll write the date on the back. 6. This happy face is what I saw when I picked him up from Preschool. He LOVED the activities that day especially the face painting. Enrolling him in a multicultural performing arts program has proven to be a fabulous fit.

Happy weekend. I am looking forward to more sunshine, a nature walk with the wee ones today and dinner out tonight!

Linking to InstaFriday

Treating Seasonal Allergies Naturally

2013-04-08T10:18:00.002-07:00

Much of my time, while not baby wrangling is spent in our garden. It is my happy place. In the Spring because I am planting and preparing and the plants really start to produce. Summer because everyday I head out to the garden there is something to be harvested or tended to. The kiddos are in the garden with me or at least never far off. Right now Stella is nibbling the broccoli and parsley and JQ pulling off snap peas. We love it! While I hesitate to call what I am doing amongst the veggies work, it is messy, dirty and right now I am experiencing seasonal allergies! My nose and eyes are a mess to the point it is unbearable to be outdoors. Not being able to do something I adore and find quite therapeutic because of itchy watery eyes and sneezing would be a total drag. Taking an allergy pill that would make me sleeping, dull my senses or mask my symptoms is not an option either. Staying true to my ideals I have found several natural forms of treating seasonal allergies that really work for me. Hearing from friends around the country it sounds like many are loving the spring weather not the allergies that come with it. I thought it helpful to share some of the natural allergy treatment methods I have found to be most effective.

1. Adding honey to your daily diet is a completely natural and effective way to help with seasonal allergies. Loosely, the honey triggers your body into producing antibodies against the allergens. Local honey is best as it would be unique to the flowers and plants blooming in your area. Honey from nearby your home should be available at your local farmers market or natural food store. 2. Adding an all natural Allergy Supplement with ingredients such as nettle, echinacea, vitamin C and bee pollen all of which have been proven to help with seasonal allergies. These supplements can be taken individually as well to help with allergy symptoms. 3. Using a Neti Pot! Never heard of it? I hadn't either until a few years ago but WOW the relief! An ancient tradition of Indian Yogi's the Neti Pot has just recently gained popularity in the US. Using a mild saline solution the Neti Pot cleanses your sinuses thus flushing the allergens out. Used daily this is a very effective and natural way to treat seasonal allergies. 4. Drinking hot tea or even hot water is something I find helpful as well. 5. Lastly, when coming in doors after being outside I will wash my face and hands and even change my clothes. Even trying one of these methods would be beneficial and worth a try.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The opinions expressed on this blog are my own based on personal experience and my own research. I have not been compensated for this post in anyway.

Insta Photo Friday

2013-04-05T16:23:00.001-07:00

This week has been all about playing outside, finding critters in the yard, planning and preparing our garden, family and balance. In fact I am typing this from the yard watching my two gremlins play near the pond and herb garden. Plus being outside in the yard helps me to avoid the giant pile of laundry lurking in the guest room! As usual my photos are of my kiddos and nature"y" stuff. They are what make me happy. Cheers to a beautiful weekend ahead!
Linking to InstaFriday hosted by Life Rearranged. Also I am taking part in a fun Photo A Day Challenge hosted by Fat Mum Slim and have included some of my Instagram photos here as well.

Blog Party

2013-04-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't like a good party in the morning!

Hi. I am Tiffany and joining in on 5MinutesForMom.com and The Collective for the first time. This blog started as a sort of therapeutic outlet for me after transitioning from a high demand technical career to a full time stay at home Mommy. My family and I currently live in a "smallish" Northern California town where community, family and the love of outdoors abounds. We have lived many places together over the past four years and Mr. and I enjoy travel and exploration with our two tots. I write about all sorts of stuff but mostly life as a baby wrangler, my garden, the outdoors and finding balance and beauty in the everyday. My two fascinating little ones are perhaps the greatest journey of my life to date. As a bicultural and bilingual family we have all sorts of experiences together. I am a creative, not crafty, woman who feels everything and forgets nothing, can you relate? I do on occasion do a product review or sponsored post but always in line with my values and feeling of this blog. Leading my family in a purposeful and beautiful life is the goal. Join Me!

A Cup Of Tea For Mommy

2013-04-04T10:31:00.004-07:00

The act of preparing a cup of tea in the afternoon has saved me from totally loosing it on innumerable occasions. Its true. Late in the day, that hour or two before dinner is ready when my sweet tots are tired from a day of play, I am tired from a day being Mommy, my patients waining, I'll make a cup of tea. Its a small thing that I can do for myself amongst the business of filling sippy cups and clean up messes of toys and finger paints. Turning the kettle on, pulling a favorite mug from the cupboard, picking a tea from the pantry. These small steps divided take no time at all but enough time to calm my nerves a bit and focus on the very small simple task i am doing. While letting the tea steep I'll soothe a boo boo on a little knee. We make the world around us beautiful with these small acts and being kind to ourselves. I recently ready a quote by Audrey Hepburn.

"As you grow older you will discover you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others."

While I'm not I qualify as "older" becoming a Mom many of us dive in wholeheartedly to taking care of our children and discount our own needs as something to be addressed later. The act of preparing a cup of tea might seem like just another thing to put on the "to do" list and perhaps it will be the first time around. You will find that it really is a very small gesture to yourself. Once you breathe in the steamy aroma or perhaps even enjoy it with a friend during a playdate at home it will become a ritual in honor of you!

Linking here for What I Am Loving Wednesday.

I was not compensated in any way for this post but would receive a commission on products purchased directly from the Tazo link on this page.

Just Write

2013-04-02T14:10:00.000-07:00

Slap slap slap. Her little feet on the floor. Slap, slap. "Ami?" Her little voice soft and kind. I open my eyes. She is standing at the side of the bed. Her face close to mine, smiling. Her curly wild mess of hair piled on top of her head she is holding a small green comb. "Hi baby" I say. She takes it as an invitation to climb onto the bed. I shove the palms of my hands down into the sheets and slowly sit up in bed. "C'mon Ami, I show you" she says as she squeezes her body between mine and the headboard. She combs my hair. Tears form at the corners of my eyes when the plastic tips scrap my scalp. "So boofull" she says softly as she continues to comb. Her hands on my shoulder she peeks around to look at my face. "I brush your hair!" Her chin bobbing up and down. "Yes baby, thank you." I say. Truth is I can't think of many other ways I'd like to be woken up. The mornings are slow and easy and I am continually thankful.

Linking to Just Write at Extraordinary Ordinary

Friday Photos via Instagram

2013-04-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

Sharing photos from our week could not come on a better day.

FRIDAY I thought you would never arrive!!

If my iPhone is good for nothing else it's a fantastic way to capture the highs and lows and moments that sneak in between that make up life as a Mami. So often Mr. will ask "what did you guys do today?" And I'm like "uh, all kinds of stuff." And I go on to try and piece together the little events that made up our day. More than likely I will have a photo or six to share and Mr. seems pleased with that over my mumbling. Huh, weird. I've only a few photos to share this time around which is not to say there weren't more photo worthy moments. It's just that you know my phone is not actually one of my appendages.

Linking to Instafriday

Epic Playdate Weekend!

2013-03-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

This post is brought to you by The New Santa Fe from Hyundai. Click here for information on how to win a trip for four to Los Angeles to attend Hyundai's Epic Playdate Weekend!

Every Mom and Dad has heard of playdates but have you ever considered having a playdate just as a family? Hyundai has and they are celebrating in a big way! On April 27 from 9am-5pm at the beach in Santa Barbara, California Hyundai is holding an Epic Playdate Weekend that you can win a trip to. Other families and Bloggers such as Dooce, Mighty Girl, Oh Happy Day, Oh Joy, Say Yes To Hoboken, Girls Gone Child (my fav!), BoingBoing, and How To Be A Dad are camping on the beach and hosting workshops for kids. Some of the fun planned so far includes an ice cream sundae bar, paint fight (which sounds completely awesome), a kids’ photography class and a hula-hooping workshop.
A Mi Pancita reader can enter a sweepstakes to win a trip for four to this very cool weekend. Here are the details:Go to go to http://clvr.li/X4rpgE* for complete details and to enter. You must have a Pinterest account to enter and you must choose Clever Girls Collective when the form asks “How did you hear about us? This is an invite only event so it would be super special if a Mi Pancita reader won!
Even if you win the sweepstakes or don't want to wait until April I encourage you to plan your own playdate as a family and with other families. My family has mini sized or totally over the top playdates consistently and we always feel refreshed and reconnected afterward. There is no shortage of lakes, rivers and creeks in our area so in planning an Epic playdate for my family it would include all sorts of water activities. We would load up our tandem kayaks, plan for serious sunshine and fresh air. We would paddle (err Mr. and I would paddle, kids would enjoy the scenery) someone usually gets wet and we always have an adventure. We would play "I spy" the hawk, fish, pine cone (still fun with two toddlers) until our tummies started to grumble. Dads clad in toddler sized floaters would jump from rope swings into the clear water and we'd hold up score cards for the best belly flop. Later a bonfire with sparklers and toasted marshmallows and palomitas! We would search for Ursa Major amongst the star strewn sky. And finally a lantern lit walk back where the excitement of the day ignites our imagination with the slightest rustling of leaves. The playdate would include getting dirty, some sort of physical activity, lots of laughing as a family and would be most definitely epic.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective, and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Follow "Mi" With BlogLovin!

2013-03-18T12:24:00.000-07:00

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Once Again

2013-03-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

And finally the days are getting longer, the sun is warmer and life seems to be finding a rhythm once again. I was not born to live in snow and ice, this I am confident of. Since visiting this space the last time there have been revelations, remodeling, celebrations and something we can always rely on, change. It's good to be back in Northern California amongst family and friends. People that give without you asking and want nothing more than for you to share a bit of their happiness. Now that we can go without multiple layers of clothing the kiddos and I are beginning to feel ourselves again. Wiggling our toes out of our open toed sandals and feeling the suns burn on our bare arms. Our life outdoors can commence...
This past week we have taken family big rides in Bidwell Park. The little ones even dared to get in the creek to look for fish or some strange thing that might move or glimmer under water. We enjoyed the company of a egret bird perched in a pine tree in the yard just before a spring rain shower. We walked the Farmers Market with friends and wiped strawberry juice from our chin and hands. The three of us squat down, our faces near the ground to inspect our gardens seedlings rising from the dirt. Our ears burn as a cool wind blows through on North Rim trail. We slap at mesquitos in the evening and warm our faces with a bonfire at night. This is what life is to me. My life outdoors.

Linking to The Extraordinary Ordinary for Just Write

Intention

2012-12-15T16:13:00.001-08:00

I've come to this place countless times in the past few weeks only to leave it as I found it. No new post or pictures from me doesn't mean I have stopped writing them or capturing moments on film. I just haven't had the "need" to share them here. In one larger swoop things have changed for us, for the better. We moved back into our lovely Northern California home after a year living at the sunny beach. Mr. got a promotion and Joaquin started PreSchool. My house, my children, my family and beloved husband have captured my full attention. The natural beauty of my surroundings have me speechless. I am fulfilled to simply be. Taking it as it comes, embracing what I can, wading in the water and the surf of life. I'm happy. I do intend on writing here on occasion but with no regularity. My love for personal blogs still exist and I find myself reading my favorites almost everyday. I am still on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest if your looking to check in on us.
Chao!

Boy Meets Preschool

2012-11-29T10:28:00.001-08:00

Hoy Joaquin va a visitar Una Escuelita. Today Joaquin is going to visit what will be his Preschool. It's a big day with first impressions being made and all and this is just a visit, an introduction. He is scheduled to start next month. Those that follow this Blog or know us in person are aware JQ has never been in Daycare or Preschool or even away from me for more than one night! So starting Preschool for two days a week, three hours a day is pretty humungous. Mi Escuelita Maya seems to be the perfect fit for our little guy, our parenting style and family values. I met with the director, Maria a couple weeks ago and am excited for JQ to do the same today. Here's to hoping he loves it!!
Linking to Small Style hosted by Mama Loves Papa.
JQ wore:
Hurley hoodie, OshKosh jeans, Black leather Converse high top.

Fire

2012-11-28T22:24:00.001-08:00

Laying in front of the fire again. This time atop a pile of moving pads (the kind moving companies use) neatly folded and cleaned they where the closest thing I could find to a blanket without searching more boxes. The fire is hot. I can feel the warmth reach my bones. I am home. As in my own home. One that has my heart, sweat and tears. My Mr. and my hard earned dollars and precious time invested. My hands dry and cracked from hauling wood. Tiny cuts on my fingers from opening box after box. Labors of love, all of it. I am happy in front of this fire. Chaotic, complicated or confused my mind rests at home. Torn, broken or aching my heart is full in this house. A haven to nourish and grow my precious family. How can something such as walls, bricks and wood a bit of dirt and hard work make me feel so whole? So calm? I am happy lying in front of this fire.
Linking to just write

Wind & Rain

2012-11-20T14:27:00.001-08:00

The wind pushes the leaves and rain past my window. The oversized wind chimes sound softly even with big gusts of wind outside the window. I've missed the wind and rain, the cold and leaves. The way I feel so refreshed and energized by it. My Mother tells me how it stormed the night I was born every year on my birthday. Each time she tells it I smile. Today it is rainy and cold. A mild stormy winter day for the region. Today is my birthday. As I wrap myself up in one of my mothers ill fitting coats to shop for Thanksgiving dinner I'm reminded of one of my favorite movies, Home For The Holidays. It's a funny, realistic look at what Thanksgiving is really like for a lot of people. There's a break in the rain and the birds immediately start singing. There songs are clearly heard through the closed windows and walls. My toes cold inside my boots I wiggle them just a bit to warm them. A dialogue starts in my head, me telling Joaquin and Stella about the days they entered the world. What beautiful days they where because they had arrived.
Linking to Just Write

Improvements

2012-11-15T14:47:00.001-08:00

The days have been long and productive. S & J have been total champs by playing and staying busy while we remodel the house. trips to the home improvement store, appliance and tile stores. The first bits of our belongings are being unpacked while the kitchen, dining and living room are under construction. I snapped these Instagram photos while taking a much needed break in beautiful Bidwell Park with the kiddos. It was so incredibly cold but they didn't seem to notice at all. Running and giggling while they played chase, went down the slide and went on the swings. That said I underestimated the cold weather when I packed the bags we would be living out of for these few weeks. Born and raised in Northern California I have no excuse as to why I only packed light jackets and mostly shorts. It is so cold! There is not enough I can say about having family close again either! I am so completely thankful for my family. Without them I'm not sure this remodel would have happened so smoothly or at all.
Linking up to Small Style

InstaFriday Photo Roundup

2012-11-09T17:05:00.001-08:00

If you follow on Instagram you have already seen these photos from the past two weeks or so. Looking back at some of my iPhone photos is a wonderful way to reflect and always has a way of making my heart feel full and incredibly thankful. Both mis niños asked to go to the beach yesterday (and Stellita again today). I am afraid I haven't yet found a way to tell them it's not simply down the road any longer. I have been touring Preschools for my little man and quickly fell in love with one that has a lengthy waiting list. Oye! El Otoño has me swooning. I am in love with its colors and brisk air. Life is good.
Linking to InstaFriday

Leaves And Things

2012-11-07T18:39:00.001-08:00

At the park the leaves where slowly falling and floating off the trees. From the top of the slide Stellita called to me, " Mami, what happy(happened)?" I replied, " the leaves are falling mija (las hojas están cayendo)." She promptly slide down and announced, "I catch'em!" And trotted off to catch the leaves. Which she attempted for all of two minutes before running off to the Cheese(pictured). Because let's face it playing in a huge slice of Swiss cheese made of concrete is pretty awesome.
Linking to Small Style
Stella is wearing OshKosh overalls(hand me down) and top, shoes Saltwater.
Joaquin is wearing Maui shirt from My Grandma, jeans OshKosh, shoes Keen.

Otoño

2012-11-06T21:19:00.001-08:00

We are here and it still doesn't seem so. Here but not settled and not in our own place. Our belongings are boxed up inside a truck somewhere between here and there and when it will arrive remains to be seen. In fact we told them to hold on for it now, we will let you know when we are ready for it. And this makes my stomach knot and flip and sit in my belly like a brick. Our house needs fixing before it becomes once again our home. I'd like to pick it up and shake it until all the dust and loose parts fall away leaving a clean slate, a fresh space to start. In a way that is what we are doing just in a smaller, slower way. The air is crisp and the leaves have begun to fall. Autumn visits here in this place we will once again call home. It's display of color steals my heart year after year sending me out for more walks than usual. The in between can be quite beautiful in the earths seasons. The change from Summer and Winter brings glorious Fall. This change in season for us is also glorious, outstanding and truly a gift, an opportunity. The limbo I am now feeling will fade and a sturdy foundation will form from routines, family, our beloved outdoors, community and a home.
Linking to just write