Category: Working moms

My “Mom List” — Part II: Pumping & Nursing essentials

Many friends have asked for tips or items I use or used with my pregnancies and my three munchkins. This is part II of my “Mom List” posts. Happy to hear your tips, tricks and must haves!

**Medela Pump In Style Advanced (PISA): http://amzn.to/2kWBejq I used this and no other pump with our first kiddo. I did supplement use by adding Freemies (http://amzn.to/2mc5Vl2), which are on my MUST HAVE list.

 **Spectra S2: http://amzn.to/2kBB0lQ   I used this with the twins to supplement my Medela Symphony rental. However, it requires different connectors for the Freemies (these: http://amzn.to/2lwJg5J).

**Zerlar silicone breastfeeding manual pump: http://amzn.to/2lwEoOj               I learned about this device when I had my twins. It would’ve been way more useful to have with a single child as you use it on the opposite side from the one you’re nursing on to “save” milk from a letdown. Many women build their initial “go back to work” stash using this and only this without having to pump. This, in my opinion, is a MUST HAVE for any Mom who cannot exclusively nurse their baby.

**Medela Lactina hand pump: http://amzn.to/2mctKsP I didn’t use a hand pump with my first kiddo, but with my twins, I used the hand pump when I traveled to conferences. It’s small, and I could fit it and a mini cooler (http://amzn.to/2kXdWKp), Medela bags (http://amzn.to/2lY6p2a), Medela connectors with this set (http://amzn.to/2lx7ey6), Medela cooler pack (http://amzn.to/2mcl7P5), etc. in a handbag that I could easily carry and pump anywhere anytime. It actually helped boost and maintain my supply. My body responded well to a hand pump when needed. I will note here that I prefer not to use the Medela bags full time, but they work for this purpose.

**Milk Storage Bags: http://amzn.to/2lYjett My preference is to use Up&Up brand milk storage bags. We had fewer leaks, tears, rips, spills, etc. with these over Nuk, Lansinoh and Medela brands. In addition to writing the date, ounces and other info on the milk bags, we also established a system where we put a “garage sale” tag in a particular color on each bag based on month (dots: http://amzn.to/2moSgIq). This helped any caregiver (mom, dad, grandparents, sitters, etc.) know which milk to use first (i.e., use all the blue-dot labeled bags before the yellow-dot labeled bags!). We stored the milk bags sideways in 1-gallon plastic bags (http://amzn.to/2mweLdx) in a brick-like configuration with approximately 4 ounces per milk bag and 48 ounces per gallon bag. Then, label the outside of the bag with the amount inside for easy reference. This method makes it easy to store milk in a stand-up freezer, side-by-side freezer or deep freeze.

**Medela Nipple Shield: http://amzn.to/2mcuyhu This was critical to the breastfeeding journey with all three kiddos. When the twins were in the NICU, they were still too immature to latch properly. This, though seemingly large for their mouths, helped both babies practice nursing. We came home needing to use this with only one twin, and graduated it when babies had been home a couple weeks. Then, when the twins were teething, this helped protect mom for a day or two until babies’ teeth broke thru their gums and they weren’t trying to gnaw on mom anymore. This is not something you will need forever, but at certain points, it helps crest a few hurdles.

**Medela to Spectra adapter: http://amzn.to/2kWG2FL This is a tiny item, but it makes using the Freemies and other Medela “hacks” on the Spectra. If you want to use the bottles interchangeably, you will need a threaded bottle top adapter (http://amzn.to/2l9SkNk).

**Pumping bras come in all types and styles. Some of the ones I’ve tried (I think I’ve tried a dozen or so):

—Medela (http://amzn.to/2mcjiBW) is pretty standard; I was initially skeptical because of the cost, but I use/d it when pumping with regular Spectra parts (no Freemies).

–The Rumina (http://amzn.to/2kBLiSU) was recommended on a Mom forum I follow, so I tried it. It’s more of a nursing bra and good for maternity leave, weekends, etc. It’s not really a great one for wear when leaving the house.

–The HOFISH (http://amzn.to/2lwCFbO)… I’ve tried it… not my favorite. It’s comfortable fabric, but the shape isn’t good for on the go. It is designed to fit different pump parts, which was the draw for me. I used it with the Pumping Pals (http://amzn.to/2mc6k78) on the Medela setup. I’m not aware of a setup that allows for use of Pumping Pals with Spectra… but, it just didn’t interest me to try and hack the situation, so it may be easy to do?

–Don’t laugh… but, cloth diapers (http://amzn.to/2kWsQk6) are also a pumping essential for me. It’s vital to have a nice soft cloth to use when you remove your pump flanges or Freemies. These are a must have for any mom—they make good burp cloths, good drool catchers, and good pumping helpers. J Also, in my opinion, a MUST HAVE. I go with the prefolds because they have a cushiony center and are a little more absorbent. NOTE: If you cloth diaper, recommend finding a way to tag some of these for nursing purposes only (maybe a small embroidery?).

**Lanolin/Coconut Oil/Other related products:

—Lansinoh Lanolin: http://amzn.to/2kXihNR I used this after both pregnancies. Preference is to get the smaller tubes so they can be put in more places (purse, pump bag, next to at-home pumping station, etc.).

—Coconut Oil: This was a life saver on many levels… but, yes… it worked for soreness associated with pumping. Any kind that works for you will do. I put a small amount in a small glass jar and kept it in my pumping bag and next to my pumping station at home.

—Waxaline: http://amzn.to/2kBYdEu I used this after my twins were born in place of Lanolin. I found it at Whole Foods, and it doubles as lip balm.

**Supplements/Galactagogues: At any given time, my mind and immune system might need a little boost. I keep/kept a few products on hand to ease my mind when my “supply dips/dipped” (for any number of reasons… growth spurts, Aunt Flo, dehydration, too few calories in a day, etc.). These were some of my “go to” supplements (disclaimer: check with your doctor or an IBCLC for your specific needs):

—Milk Multi (drinkable/powdered multi-vitamin): http://amzn.to/2mcaBaN I used this when I felt a tickle in my throat or sniffles coming on… it worked to stamp out any cough/cold-type illness from the jump!

—Milk Multi (UpSpring Milkflow Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle Powder Berry Drink Mix): http://amzn.to/2lacXJv This was in my arsenal of galactogogues. I park this in the camp of mental support as much or more than anything. While tasty, and items included are on many lists of breast-milk supporting items, the jury is out on whether or not galactogogues/galactagogues actually work. So, for me… taking a packet of this with pineapple juice and water (because it’s delicious that way) was as much a stress relief as it was a physical boost. Did I notice a change in my supply when I took it? Sometimes. But, that could be attributed to any number of things. So, I kept it around and used it when I needed a boost (physically/mentally, lol).

—Mother’s Milk Tea (http://amzn.to/2lwRvPw): Also in the lane of support, I kept this tea on hand. It’s an odd flavor, but not bad. Recommend adding a touch of honey. I used this more with my first kiddo than with the twins, but he was a winter-born baby, so hot tea was soothing in other ways then. This was the first way I found I could tolerate fenugreek since taking the tablets hurt my stomach. I found this version (a coconut flavored lactation tea) with the twins: http://amzn.to/2lY9wY7 It is also delicious.

—Lactation cookies (http://amzn.to/2kBOWwd): These were by far the most delicious galactagogue. Their main components (oats, flax, etc) were the supplements needed, but these do have plenty of calories as well to support nursing moms. They also come individually packaged (http://amzn.to/2lzvP5v) so you can keep one in any bag you go out with. These did seem to assist in boosting my supply, but I think it could’ve been as much the extra calories as anything.

—Milk Drunk Protein Bars (http://amzn.to/2kBHkdi): Let me be honest here… these are gross, in my opinion. I bought a box and kept them around, and yes… I ate them. They travel well. But, in the lane of tasty… they are not.

—Brewer’s Yeast (http://amzn.to/2mc4S4O): This made its way into my daily smoothies.

NOTE: As always, I will update this as needed or as I remember other items. Happy nursing & pumping Moms!

Feeding Three Under Two!

It’s been some time since my last update… because life has been cruising along. In 2016, we added twins to our family! Since then, I’ve been nursing (and pumping for) two adorable little ones.

As part of this journey, I get questions frequently from friends and colleagues like “How do you do it?!” Well… here’s a list of my go-to products (affiliate links may be included). These items may keep me sane, may help my milk supply, may keep my kids entertained while I feed another one, or any other number of things to support feeding three kiddos under age two!

I found these cookies some time ago. Full disclosure, these will not help you “lose the baby weight while breastfeeding” if that’s your plan; however, they do seem to help me keep my supply at a twin-tolerant level. Chocolate-chip Oatmeal cookies: http://amzn.to/2ipFhaW

Vitamins! All moms need a little boost occasionally, and I consider having this many munchkins around. This is a powdered product you can dissolve in water or juice. It smells a bit like powdered citrus drink mix, but it’s more bitter when you drink it down. I generally try to get it mostly down in one try or mask the bitterness with a tropical flavored juice like pineapple. 🙂 Milk-multi Postnatal Vitamin: http://amzn.to/2itsBee

By the same company as the vitamin powder, this stuff tastes quite good, in my opinion, and it supports twin-tolerant milk levels from what I’ve experienced. You also mix this with water or juice. I can tolerate this one with water. UpSpring Milk Flow Fenugreek & Blessed Thistle powdered drink mix: http://amzn.to/2jL4lp0

Mother’s Milk Tea is mentioned in nearly every forum I’ve ever been a part of, and I’ve definitely used it. That said, I think there are other products that seem to help me a little more, but I like having a box of this tucked into my desk at work and another next to my single-cup brew machine at home. Mother’s Milk Tea: http://amzn.to/2iym3ya

This is one I wish I would’ve known about with my first child. When you’re nursing a baby on one side, the other side lets down… if this happens and you don’t have a way to collect the milk, you lose out in many ways. This device can be suctioned to the opposite side you nurse on to collect an ounce or two. Many women use this–what may seem like a small amount–to start their “going back to work stockpile” of frozen breast milk. With twins, I still use this on occasion, and it’s a great (inexpensive) item to throw in a gift set for a new mom (provided you KNOW she plans to breastfeed). Zerlar brand Hakaa cup: http://amzn.to/2jkoXYK

As I recall other tools I use, I’ll come back and update this resource list. I’d love to hear what works for you in the comments below!

For all my fellow twin moms, moms of three under two, working moms, frantic, nit-picky, loving, laughing, enjoying life moms… happy twinning, happy momming, and keep rocking it!

Holiday treats for neighbors, teachers

Inspired by my “Mason Jar” gift win from the open house, I found a recipe for a dry apple cider mix recipe and a stove-top spiced pecan recipe. 

I started a little early on this project, so I ordered 4-ounce jars and plastic bags to package everything. 

I assembled the jars and printed a label; I toasted the pecans with the sugar and spices, then let them cool on a mat. I spooned the pecans into small bags after I added a sticker with the ingredients printed on them. Then, in a slightly larger bag, I nestled the apple-cider jar in the bottom and placed the tied bag of pecans on top. Then, I sealed the outer bag. 

I decided this was a great neighbor gift, but for the teachers, I wanted to jazz it up a tiny bit more. I found an Etsy page with hand-sewn pocket, rice hand warmers for $1! I ordered two for each teacher. I also stumbled on ceramic travel mugs with a single serving of hot chocolate and marshmallows included. These extra items fit my “comfort” and “warmth” theme, so I packaged all of it together in gift bags.

Here’s hoping these go over well… still a few days before I’ll be able to deliver them.

As always, these didn’t take forever to assemble, but I feel showing a little time in my gift idea helps show the teachers how much they are appreciated for hanging out with my little one all day!

Happy Holidays!

I finally remembered to snap a pic… 🙂  

 

“Back to school” Teacher gifts

You’ve probably seen elaborate teacher gifts all over the web or in your classroom? 

Well, I saw a note when I picked up my little one that the child center was having their “back to school” open house and figured I needed to not show up empty handed! However, I seriously had a grand sum of five minutes to put something together while Dad distracted the baby, and I had zero time to shop.

Fortunately, I try to stay stocked up on small things that can build a variety of spectacular-looking or sounding things in a snap. 

So… What did I make?

5-minute hand scrub: Coconut oil, raw sugar and lavender oil… That’s it. I used roughly equal parts sugar and coconut oil until I liked the consistency. I evenly portioned the scrub into 4-ounce canning jars, printed a quick label, tied it on… and voila. 

As it turns out, one of my son’s guest teachers is British and loved the lavender. Who knew? 🙂 

My thoughts… These ladies wash their hands a million times a day and might appreciate a luxurious and moisturizing scrub to pamper themselves with. Bonus: I had enough to keep some on my own sink counter!

Reading list

I read a variety of books, magazine and blogs. I take a little from each to try in my daily life, and I leave some information behind because it doesn’t always fit perfectly. I enjoy reading different perspectives, and I appreciate hearing about the trials and triumphs of other mothers.

This is a non-exhaustive list of some of my favorite sites, books and more. Take a look and share some of your favorites in the comments. I’ll update this as I find new resources Along my journey.

Some of these are also “me” books or ones I read just because I wanted to tackle something for entertainment or historical (vs. parental) learning purposes. 

P.S. As someone who commutes roughly half an hour one way to work daily, I 100% consider audiobooks as “reading.” 🙂 Without audiobooks, I might not be able to consume as much literature! 

Scientific secrets for raising kids who thrive (Great Courses audio series of lectures; affiliate link): http://amzn.to/1NUI31n 

Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg (affiliate link): http://amzn.to/1EeMSIe

Undaunted by Tanya Biank (affiliate link): http://amzn.to/18LAbff

The Humbled Homemaker blog: http://thehumbledhomemaker.com/

Six Sister Stuff blog: http://mm.sixsistersstuff.com

Parent Effectiveness Training by Thomas Gordon (affiliate Link): http://amzn.to/1FfUi1P 

Liar, temptress, soldier, spy: Four women undercover in the Civil War by Karen Abbott (affiliate link): http://amzn.to/1HhxEY0 

Sleep? 

Admittedly, at the six-week point, I was no where near ready to go back to work…

…so, I didn’t. I had enough vacation time banked to take another four weeks. 

The last day of my authorized paid leave (the first six weeks) of absence was probably the longest of all. Hubby was finally succumbing to the sleeplessness and coming down with a cold, which left me to tackle every single baby task on my own. I know many moms probably do this day in and day out, but hubby and I had a pretty good shared system, and having to take his turns was a lot more overwhelming than I anticipated. Our little one was entering a growth spurt, and his feedings we’re advancing from once every few hours to about every hour and half. Since I was also caring for a terminally ill pet and pumping around the clock to stockpile for my eventual return to work, this left only a minute or two between feedings to sit still and recover. I needed a nap!

Everyone says you don’t get sleep with a new baby or they say sleep when baby sleeps, but seriously… Who ever tells you what really happens between feedings that WILL consume your day? No one, really. One doesn’t just snap her fingers and change a diaper, warm a bottle, kick the laundry behind the laundry room door, load the dishwasher, wash the endless bottles, express a new round of milk or anything else… It all adds up, and it all pulls you away from any semblance of restful sleep.

As another example, lunch one afternoon consisted only of a plate full of cucumbers, bell peppers and broccoli because we certainly didn’t have the time or energy to cook anything, and prepping the vegetables was all we could muster. Delicious? Yes. Protein-packed and filling? Not as much as we might’ve needed. But, eating at all? That made it into the “win” column.

So… Sleep? It’ll most likely happen when you literally can’t move another muscle. Now, to throw in work to that mix. I haven’t decided if work helps more or hurts more, yet.

When I wasn’t getting sleep, I became reacquainted with late-night TV until my mind felt numb. It was about this point my fellow mom friends mentioned some of their tips and tricks for staying sane during the wee hours of nursing and baby care. I completely forgot about my access to streaming content via my Amazon Prime account until this time. Once I realized I could binge watch several seasons of TV shows I’d been meaning to see or catch a movie, my empty DVR queue didn’t seem so grim. 

Amazon Prime streaming content affiliate link; access the Amazon catalog for 30 days for only $3: <a target=”_blank”href=”http://www.amazon.com/gp/video/primesignup/?ref_=assoc_tag_ph_1402131641212&ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=pf4&tag=homeforworkmo-20&linkId=HCT3O5V2HUERUMCA”>Join Amazon Prime – Watch Over 40,000 Movies & TV Shows Anytime – Start Free Trial Now</a><img src=”http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=homeforworkmo-20&l=pf4&o=1&#8243; width=”1″ height=”1″ border=”0″ alt=”” style=”border:none !important; margin:0px !important;” />


Surprise! ‘Baby’s coming’

Preparing to have a baby also including significant planning at work in order to be out of the office for 6-10 weeks. {A paid six weeks is standard for my organization, but I was hoping for 10 weeks to maximize my time settling into my new role after properly healing from the ordeal of child birth.}

I kept telling everyone my little one was going to arrive early. I had in mind he’d arrive a month early (since I was about that early for my mom). Otherwise, I had no real reason for anticipating an early birth outside of IVF statistics (more on that another time).

Regardless, after a particularly long day of preparing a few Thanksgiving turkeys for two shifts of workers at my husband’s job, I apparently pushed myself into an even earlier labor than I expected at 33 weeks and 3 days. (I had a fantastic holiday with his team, but three days later we welcomed a preemie!)

So the preparation? I spent the months prior to my delivery divvying up certain subjects and accounts among my staff, but asked them to each take ownership beginning in December (the month prior to my due date). This was to allow us time to overlap before my personally anticipated early delivery… Haha… We didn’t get the overlap, but at least they were fairly prepared to take over the tasks. 🙂

They were all surprised to arrive at work with a message the baby had arrived, and then a few hours later see me in the office. I had to update my email message to those contacting me and file the personnel paperwork to be out for six weeks. Don’t worry, I didn’t stay long… after all, my preemie was in the NICU, and I desperately needed more time with him.