by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
1. Keep moving. Walk everywhere. If you’re already very athletic you are at somewhat of an advantage. But for those of us who can be sedentary I can’t stress enough how important it is to get moving. A simple walk can help lower stress, keep weight manageable and help any constipation you may be experiencing during the pregnancy.
2. Carry positive affirmations with you. Be mindful of your mental health. Stay positive. Meditate, listen to happy music, talk to your Doctor if you are feeling off. Don’t succumb to too many emotional breakdowns. Have a plan in place for your mental wellness. 🙂
3. Eat several small well-balanced meals a day. My nausea and vomiting was ridiculous! I found it very helpful to graze my way through the day and not fill up too much. Carry peppermint gum and ginger chews to help curb the ickys.
4. Become one with your water bottle. Drink plenty of fluids — at least eight to 10 glasses a day. You’re already going to pee a lot so why not be sure your body is getting the proper hydration it needs. Your baby benefits from it too! Keeping yourself hydrated will help relieve several body aches and pains as well.
5. Relax! Put your feet up several times a day to prevent fatigue and swelling of the feet and legs. I had to force myself in the beginning to take what I called, my afternoon tea time lol. But I became very comfortable taking time to just sit and relieve all that pressure in my legs. Some days I swear my ankles looked like they were going to snap. 🙂
6. Enjoy your time alone. Especially if this is your first pregnancy, take time to go out with friends and family. Have a “just you” day at the mall. Because it really is true what they say, once your baby arrives carving out time for you can be difficult.
7. Take unwanted advice with a grain of salt. If you are sick of hearing how so and so did but don’t want to offend them, simply smile and hear what they are saying without being defensive. You never know when the unwanted advice will come in handy.
8. Don’t go it alone! Whether it be your bff, spouse or whoever is in your support system, lean on them. Do not try to keep it all together for the sake of appearance. You are pregnant and allowed to be a hot mess.
9. Shower, shave and get dressed. If you are not going to work everyday be sure to always get up with the day no matter how lousy you feel. I had nausea all day and night! Being preggo sick always seemed better with lipstick on and my hair done.
10. Maintain your health by journaling. Journaling is a great way to relieve stress and built up emotions that sometimes feel like they are coming out of nowhere during pregnancy. In my alone time I would journal. Some days it was about the baby and other times it was about my fears of being a mom.
11. Do Pregnant Pauses every day! Buy Here
Be good to yourself mama! 🙂
Author of the 2006 release ‘Broken Moms’ and long time mother’s advocate, #LianaPreble currently resides in New York with her fiance and their 2 little ones. A marriage officiant proudly serving the Niagara Falls region by day and #mommy #cakeeater and #winelover by night.
Freelance writer, Liana Preble
lianapreble@yahoo.com
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
10. You will not always be this tired! It might not seem like it now, but eventually your baby will fall into a sleep rhythm. My baby goes back to sleep just fine some nights and I find its ME who is wide awake lol.
9. Your baby wont always be this age, enjoy it while its here. Everyday your baby is rapidly changing and when you look back you will see just how quickly it went by. Remember that when the day seems long and tough.
8. It’s OK to NOT know what you are doing! I read all the books and still I struggled with my babies and I really wish I had moms around me at the time to tell me to just relax! Dry, full belly babies sometimes still just cry. If it’s like nails on the chalk board like it was for me, try to remember this is a helpless new human trying out their vocal chords. Though the song isn’t always pretty, be grateful its you who gets to hear it.
7. The baby crying is not a reflection of your parenting. This one always messed me up. The stares in the grocery store, the days when the baby was just, “fussy.” I always felt like I was under a microscope being judged because I couldn’t quiet my little one down. Again, see number 8 and if you’ve done all you can, do one more thing and give yourself a break already.
6. Your baby is not going to break. Delicate and dainty turns into rolling while diaper changes and barfing on your cutest, last clean shirt. Though putting that tiny little arm through the sleeve hole seems terrifying, take it slow and in a couple months you might be wrestling to put a shirt on what seems to be the worlds strongest baby lol!
5. Sometimes little ones just throw up a lot. My daughter didn’t throw up at all and her brother after her was non stop. No stomach issue, no formula issue, no over feeding issue and still he puked on all of us a few good times. Everytime I tried to dress up and by that I mean out of my yoga pants…lol everytime without fail, splat! Just roll with it, not in it 😉 and keep burp clothes close at all times.
4. Your body needs TIME to bounce back, BE PATIENT! After my last child I was determined to get back into shape fast. My previous pregnancies took about a year, but for some reason I thought I was super woman. I ended up prolonging my recovery time by hurting myself through exercise. Naturally my body took back its shape. My shape being short and plump here and there 😉 and I should have been easier on myself.
3. A new baby is an adjustment for BOTH mom AND dad! I admit it, I acted like I knew more when I had my last child, but the truth is every newborn is an individual. So are mom and dad. I was very impatient with my body bounce back. I was inpatient with not being able to have sex with my fiance for a month or so prior to delivery and then having to wait 6 weeks after! I was grumpy and I felt unattractive and I was, well…mean at times. I drove my man nuts! “do you think I’m pretty?” “do you still love me?” Though he always responded with sweetness and love he sat me down one day and said, “you had a baby, why are you being so hard on yourself? Take the time to heal and I will rock your world as soon as I know you are OK.” Turned out to be the best wait of my life! 😉
2. You DO deserve time alone, a shower and pampering. Ahh the simple things like having time to poop alone and lol, sorry but its so true! By child #3 I have no problem sneaking into the bathroom to take a very long time brushing my teeth. I willing walk the dog just to get a few minutes to myself. Whenever I can I color my hair at home, get a new trim and paint my nails. Those little things for me went a long way.
1. It is OK and admirable to put your baby down somewhere safe and walk away! Any parent who acts like their baby has not gotten on their last nerve is a liar. Children are very demanding and if you are depleted in your energy you may become even more frustrated. The truth of the matter is, its OK, normal and completely understandable. If it gets to be too much and you need to catch your breath, put your little one in their crib and walk away. Don’t go sit by the monitor either, walk away and pretend they are alright and go back in when you are calmer.
#Huffpost writer, Author of the 2006 release BROKEN MOMS and long time mother’s rights advocate, #LianaPreble currently resides in New York with her fiance and their 2 little ones. #mommy #cakeeater and #winelover…in that order.
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
Number 1.
You are doing it. That simple of a reason? Yes and its actual a huge reason. Staying in the game is not always easy or desirable. I mean my morning started with the most beautiful smiles from my 9 month old son, immediately followed by an explosive diaper and poop on my hand. Lol! But I took it well and seem to be good at rolling with the punches of motherhood. I have to remind myself that it requires a lot of effort to keep my family in order and to be proud for doing it all.
Number 2.
You made it through another night. 24 hours a day I am the watcher of all things and people, especially at night. My fiance works 2nd shift. The baby still wakes up a couple times. On a teething night I’m looking at a few wake ups. I rarely sleep and if I do they are in these chunks of time revolving around everyone else’s schedule. Last night I got some decent sleep between midnight and 5. That’s a great nights sleep for me with my little one! So I say congrats to those who…made it through another night.
Number 3.
You routinely put others first. It had been a few days since my last shower when instead of being upset about it, I saw just how selfless you have to be when you are a mom. My baby had eaten several meals and I changed a ton of diapers. I completed loads of laundry and managed to keep a couple shirts clean for myself so who needed a shower anyways?! Well, I sure did lol. Although we are selfless and put others first we still need to remember to take care of ourselves.
Number 4.
You are up for the next challenge. Yeah, you are an athlete of the chaotic orchestration you are about to call your day. With coffee as my admin I’m up to kick each days butt! My kids deserve it. I mean yikes, the poor things can’t even wipe their noses, can’t clean their butts, they need us! They need you to show them some reason when they are absolutely freaking losing it over a miniscule thing to you, but everything to them. So kudos to you for doing it, making it through and being up for the next challenge. YOU are a super hero!
So the next time you feel like you have to live up to some standard in order to be a good mom remember, you already are.
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
The holiday season is an awesome excuse (as if we needed another one) to spoil and comfort expectant mothers. We’ve combed this year’s bevy of gift ideas to come up with the ones we found most snuggly, delicious, handy, and downright adorable. No infant or toddler cribs and clothing on this list – this is all for you, Moms. And, feel free to NOT give these gifts away!1. Pregnant Pauses – Pregnant Pauses is a life changing exercise program based on scientific research that reduces pain in pregnancy. Try it today. Your expectant mommy won’t be disappointed.https://dvd.pregnantpauses.us/buy-now/
2. Bella B Pampering Pregnancy Gift Set – Every mom-to-be needs a little TLC. This spa set ($35) includes stretch-mark-prevention cream as well as calming bath powders and lotions. http://www.bellabbodycare.com/luxurious-pampering-pregnancy-and-beyond-gift-set.html
3. Sherpa Fleece Throw from Lands’ End – Micro mink on one side, pillowy fleece on the other; this throw will keep you warm and comfortable all winter long. http://www.landsend.com/products/sherpa-fleece-throw/id_292730?sku_0=::E4J 
4. Japanese Weekend Maternity ‘MamaCoat’ Convertible Jacket – This convertible jacket ($278) is the gift that you can enjoy before, during, and after pregnancy. With two interchangeable panels, the coat adjusts to your body, can keep mom and baby warm in a front carrier, and then can be removed for nonmaternity use. http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/japanese-weekend-maternity-mamacoat-convertible-jacket/3430878?cm_ven=Linkshare&cm_cat=partner&cm_pla=10&cm_ite=1&siteId=J84DHJLQkR4-WGM2wQh.kJsUrC_BLgAHig
5. Ugg Slippers – Beautifully plush and sparkly slippers will cushion your tootsies. http://www.neimanmarcus.com/UGG-Australia-Ansley-Chunky-Crystal-Slipper-Black/prod185090025/p.prod?ecid=NMALRFeedJ84DHJLQkR4&ci_src=14110925&ci_sku=sku159320004
6. Belabumbum Lotus Kimono Robe – Belabumbum’s Lotus Kimono Robe ($79) is sexy, feminine, and the perfect thing to lounge around the house in both during and after pregnancy. http://www.barenecessities.com/product.aspx?pf_id=BelabumbumMATLT30N&cm_mmc=Affl-_-J84DHJLQkR4-_-UA-_-UA&source=Affl&term=J84DHJLQkR4&utm_medium=Affl&utm_source=J84DHJLQkR4&utm_campaign=UA&utm_content=BNR&LKP=txt&siteID=J84DHJLQkR4-uH5h8rG8oSuKEWp0VXMRfQ&cmp=xyz
7. Bath Bombs Gift Set – There’s nothing more refreshing and soothing than a relaxing bath with handmade aromatherapy bath bombs ($27). http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00U7ML6T0/ref=asc_df_B00U7ML6T04007759/?creative=394997&creativeASIN=B00U7ML6T0&linkCode=df0&tag=wwwshopstylec-20&ascsubtag=1758408179
8. The Dreamer Flannel Pajama by Victoria’s Secret – Incredibly cozy fleece, comes in a myriad of prints and colors, and will help you feel pretty and sexy, to boot. https://www.victoriassecret.com/sleepwear/pajamas/the-dreamer-flannel-pajama?cm_sp=&ProductID=260732&CatalogueType=OLS
9. McClure’s Pickles – If your cravings tend toward the salty side, a case of McClure’s Pickles ($99) should do the trick. http://www.mcclurespickles.com/products/combo-pack
10. Lemon Slipper Socks – Never underestimate the power of a cozy pair of socks ($40), especially if they have skid-proof soles and will keep your entire legs warm. http://www.shoptiques.com/products/lemon_legwear-floral-blizzard-slippers?signalSource=shopstyle&utm_source=shopstyle&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=linkshare_us&utm_content=208425&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=J84DHJLQkR4&utm_campaign=Linkshare_10
11. Nikon D53200 DSLR Camera – Since you’ll want to capture every precious moment of your pending arrival, a good camera like the Nikon D53200 ($450, originally $700) is a necessity. http://www.target.com/p/nikon-d3200-24-2mp-digital-slr-camera-with-18-55mm-vr-lens-black-25492/-/A-14129489?clkid=49ba67d2N3c5dad0c303bd3fe37d6b438&lnm=81938&afid=POPSUGAR&ref=tgt_adv_xasd0002
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
Top Five Amazing Changes in your Body When Pregnant
I’m sure you’ve heard the horror stories: shoe size increases; stretch marks; and hair falling out. These are issues that people love to harp on about to newly pregnant mothers. It’s really easy for some people to highlight the negatives of any situation whether legitimate or made up. While these things may occur for some women, they certainly do not occur for all women and these ‘negatives’ certainly don’t outweigh the positives. Here is a short list of the Top Five Amazing Changes that you can expect to find with your pregnant body:
Skin Glow
This is typically the first thing that people who spend a lot of time with you will notice when you become pregnant. They might not ask you if you’re pregnant but they’ll ask things like ‘Are you wearing new make-up?’ Or make really awesome comments like ‘You look fabulous, you’re glowing!”. I used to get a bit of acne on a semi-regular basis but as soon as I became pregnant, all of this went away – and fingers crossed, it seems to have stayed that way.
Best Hair Ever
I don’t think as many people noticed the change in my hair as they did with my skin, but I certainly did. My hair was always dry and stringy. It was pretty crusty throughout the year, but especially in the dry winter air. When I was pregnant, my hair became so awesome that I felt like one of the celebrities in the hair commercials. My husband may have caught me doing the classic hair flick on one or two occasions because of it. My doctor said that part of my new luxurious hair shine came from taking pre-natal vitamins, so I definitely recommend those (as well as for your baby’s health of course).
Boobs, boob, and more boobs.
I’ve been told this doesn’t happen for all women, but my boobs grew three sizes and were suddenly perkier then they had been in years. If there is one thing that I could’ve kept from my pregnancy, this would’ve been it. At least the size and perkiness. No one told me they would also get so sore. That’s the irony here. You get great boobs, but you don’t want anyone to touch them. Enjoy them while you’re pregnant and breast feeding ladies, because unfortunately these won’t last forever.
Nails
My nails became so much better when I was pregnant. Not only were they stronger, but my cuticles started to behave and for whatever reason I didn’t feel like biting them as much. That’s probably more psychological than physical, but it still contributed to awesome nails! Also, because your nails are stronger and harder, they are also way easier to manage and it becomes more of a treat going to the salon to get them done professionally. I used to be embarrassed going to the local sallon and all of a sudden the ladies are telling me how nice my nails are. Bonus!
Confidence
With all of the changes combined, I felt a little bit like a super hero. Skin glowing, great hair, awesome boobs and superstar nails – what more could you ask for? Well, let me tell you. When all of these great changes are occurring, you feel great and that great feeling provided me with a huge boost in confidence. I used to have a slight slouch when I was resting or sitting and that went away completely. Now my shoulders are back and I feel confident and proud of the way I carry myself. I found myself walking taller and being more assertive in public, at work, or with strangers. I include this in the list as a physical change because it was a physical change and people noticed.
I mentioned the super hero feeling associated with all of these changes, and I think that is an apt description because as a pregnant mother, you are a super hero. Your whole life becomes dedicated to this little person growing inside you and they’re doing their part by providing you with all of these physical benefits and making you feel great. This was my experience, and I hope yours was similar.
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by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
By Lisa Barry
Being pregnant can be hard work; from extreme fatigue to swollen ankles it doesn’t always feel like the miracle of life. It’s important to remember that your body is going through some incredible transformations to create a whole new life; here are 5 interesting facts about what happens to a pregnant woman’s body to remind you just how awesome you are.
1. Your pregnant body makes more blood
Your heart is put under a lot of strain supporting both you and your unborn child. Don’t worry though, your body is prepared for it and your heart adapts. Your heart rate rises from 70 beats per minute to 90 beats per minute and the actual volume of blood increases by nearly 50%. So next time you get on the scales you can reassure yourself that some of that extra weight isn’t the second helping of cake you just had, it’s just blood.
2. Your heightened sense of smell protects your baby
From the moment of conception your body becomes instantly protective. Your mama bear job is to protect your baby and your body has developed some clever ways to do it. Having a heightened sense of smell may make you feel nauseous but it’s there to save your baby’s life by keeping you away from foods that may potentially harm your baby.
3. Your uterus grows to the size of a watermelon during pregnancy
The normal uterus is the modest size of an apple, during pregnancy it grows to 500 times its size. By the end of your third trimester it will be roughly the size of a watermelon.
4. Your bones become soft
When you are pregnant your body has to adapt to the growing human inside you. It’s not just your muscles that have to stretch but your bones have to move as well. Your body will release extra doses of the hormones oestrogen and relaxin that relax the ligaments and soften the bones. Relaxin also makes your body more flexible, although a heavily pregnant woman that struggles to get her socks on may argue with that!
5. Indigestion helps your baby get the nutrients it needs
Having indigestion is an unpleasant symptom of pregnancy but like many other symptoms it serves a purpose for your baby. To ensure your baby gets all the nutrients it needs your digestion physically slows down to allow your body the time to transfer them. This may be uncomfortable for you but rest assured your baby is reaping the benefits.
So next time you feel the strain of pregnancy on your body give yourself a pat on the back, you’re doing a great job and one you were designed to do just perfectly.
