Ready for a little bit more of my birthing story? I know you've been on the edge of your seat waiting...
Before I continue, let me tell you about a funny little detail of our arrival at the Farm that I just remembered. At my last prenatal visit, Pamela had given me the clicker to open the front gate just in case we needed to get in after hours. Haha, little did we know we'd be using it so soon! When we arrived at the front gate, I extracted the clicker and clicked. Nothing. Clicked again. Nothing. I started to panic a little. I made some calls and it was arranged that Pamela's husband would meet us at the gate and let us in. Stupid clicker!
So, sleep was quiet elusive the night that we arrived at the Farm, understandably so. After all, our baby was going to be born sometime the very next day. We woke up to a beautiful day. The temperature was mild. The sun was shining. The birds were singing. A good day for birthing a baby, if I do say so myself. Labor was still mild. Really no pain or even discomfort. I was having trouble telling if I was having a contraction, so under the circumstances, breakfast seemed to be a good idea. Best I remember, I ate yogurt and strawberries. Stacey came mid-morning and said that if my contractions weren't coming pretty regularly soon, we'd need to start some natural herbals to get them going. There was something of a time crunch since my water had broken. I had 24 hours after it breaking to get that baby out before the midwives started talking hospital transport. Blah...no hospitals!
A few hours later and still no contractions, Stacey started me on a regiment of castor oil and blue cohash. I was to take both every half hour. My sister set her iPhone alarm to remind us and I diligently took the nasty stuff. The castor oil was not so bad, thick, but tasteless, especially in a little orange juice. But the blue cohosh tasted like dirt. Worse that dirt...like earthworms that had eaten dirt. It was so bad, I made my sister and my husband taste it too, just so they knew the extent of the gross. But the stuff worked. Contractions started to be more regular.
We still had plenty of time. We took a leisurely stroll around the Farm grounds and enjoyed the afternoon. We played some Settlers of Catan, although I lost every game . Something about being preoccupied. We had sandwiches and chips and grapes. I can't even imagine the cruelty of withholding food from a woman in labor!
Next installment - active labor!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Being cute keeps me out of jams
I know you guys are waiting on the edge of your seat waiting for the next installment of my birthing story...it's a good one, isn't it...and I will write more...even the whole thing. But right now, I've got a molar teething, walking learning toddler on my hands. You've been there...many of you. Clingy babe, put me down, pick me up, sleepless nights, tears, clumsy head bonking on the corners of drawers that have yet to be childproofed because two days ago they were safe. Wow! I tell you what, wow! Parenting is hard stuff. I love my little bug so fiercely it hurts, but sometimes I just have to quote her jammies, "being cute keeps me out of jams."
So please continue staying tuned for my birthing story...and feel free to ask questions. I know, it's a little different.
So please continue staying tuned for my birthing story...and feel free to ask questions. I know, it's a little different.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Birthing Story: Why midwives?
It occurred to me as I thought about how I've presented my story thus far, that I completely left out how I came to the decision to birth with midwives rather than in a hospital with a MD. You may or may not be interested, but it's part of the story nonetheless. Sorry you're getting the disjointed version! You can read it in order when I publish my book.
I began my prenatal care in Cheyenne, WY with a phone call to a random OB/GYN. I asked the nurse at the office if there was anything in particular that needed to happen before we started trying to conceive. I called the same OB/GYN when my pregnancy test came up positive (all 5 of them!) and scheduled an appointment to come in. It was then that I remembered my intense fear of MDs and medical anythings of all kinds. A deep-rooted fear. A fear so deep, that I actually had thought about NOT having kids because of the thought of having to go to the hospital. I mean, an Ativan sort of anxiety.
True to the overachiever/scholar in me, I began researching birthing options. I stumbled across Ina May's Guide to Natural Childbirth and immediately bought it. I didn't have to read much of it to realize that birthing at a birthing center with midwives was a really good option for me. I ran it by David and he was on board with it. I found a birthing center outside Denver and made an appointment. The birthing center was nice, the midwife, Laura, was darling...I was prepared to continue all of my prenatal care and ultimately deliver there.
And then life threw a HUGE curve ball that included dual unemployment, a move to TN, and moving in with my parents for what we thought would be no more than 3 months (ended up being 15 months! So go ahead...ask me about the economy and how to survive!) I scrambled to find a birthing center with which to continue my prenatal care and realized that I was a short 1.5 hours away from The Farm, the very midwifery center established by Ina May Gaskin and her fellow midwife cronies. I made a phone call. Spoke with Pamela Hunt, one of the original midwives in "The Caravan," and discussed my situation. Pamela and her daughter-in-law Stacy were to become some of my most trusted friends during my pregnancy, depending on them to support me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Oh, the tears and hugs that were exchanged during my care! So I found myself having my records from Denver being sent to The Farm. When I called Denver, the midwife exclaimed, "You're delivering at the Farm! You have to let us know how it goes!" I didn't realize how famous it was - yet!
So, to recap - I chose midwives and ultimately a home birth because I am terrified of hospitals and medical procedures, I was pregnant, not dying!, and I loved the option to make decisions based on what fit us as a family and me as a woman.
I began my prenatal care in Cheyenne, WY with a phone call to a random OB/GYN. I asked the nurse at the office if there was anything in particular that needed to happen before we started trying to conceive. I called the same OB/GYN when my pregnancy test came up positive (all 5 of them!) and scheduled an appointment to come in. It was then that I remembered my intense fear of MDs and medical anythings of all kinds. A deep-rooted fear. A fear so deep, that I actually had thought about NOT having kids because of the thought of having to go to the hospital. I mean, an Ativan sort of anxiety.
True to the overachiever/scholar in me, I began researching birthing options. I stumbled across Ina May's Guide to Natural Childbirth and immediately bought it. I didn't have to read much of it to realize that birthing at a birthing center with midwives was a really good option for me. I ran it by David and he was on board with it. I found a birthing center outside Denver and made an appointment. The birthing center was nice, the midwife, Laura, was darling...I was prepared to continue all of my prenatal care and ultimately deliver there.
And then life threw a HUGE curve ball that included dual unemployment, a move to TN, and moving in with my parents for what we thought would be no more than 3 months (ended up being 15 months! So go ahead...ask me about the economy and how to survive!) I scrambled to find a birthing center with which to continue my prenatal care and realized that I was a short 1.5 hours away from The Farm, the very midwifery center established by Ina May Gaskin and her fellow midwife cronies. I made a phone call. Spoke with Pamela Hunt, one of the original midwives in "The Caravan," and discussed my situation. Pamela and her daughter-in-law Stacy were to become some of my most trusted friends during my pregnancy, depending on them to support me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Oh, the tears and hugs that were exchanged during my care! So I found myself having my records from Denver being sent to The Farm. When I called Denver, the midwife exclaimed, "You're delivering at the Farm! You have to let us know how it goes!" I didn't realize how famous it was - yet!
So, to recap - I chose midwives and ultimately a home birth because I am terrified of hospitals and medical procedures, I was pregnant, not dying!, and I loved the option to make decisions based on what fit us as a family and me as a woman.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Birthing Story continued
 |
| This is the Farm RD, what you see when you first drive in to the Farm. |
sheets - 2 sets (one set should be ones you don't mind throwing away when you're done - and we did throw ours away!)
towels
washclothes
pillows
toilet paper
paper towels
handsoap
pads
betadine
peroxide
hibicleanse
gauze pads
underpads (you know, the big ones that go on the bed)
thermometer
peri bottle
cotton balls
trash bags (lawn and leaf)
container (with lid) for the placenta (What!?)
And of course all the normal stuff:
clothes for us
clothes for babe
hiking shoes
swimsuit
(no joke, those were on the list)
I know I'm forgetting some, but you get the gist.
Okay, you may be asking, "Why did you have to bring all that?"
 |
| This is the cabin where I delivered my daughter. Yep, no medical supplies. |
The Farm is not a medical facility. They do not provide the medical supplies. When it came time to deliver, Stacey came with her midwife kit (More on that later) and that's it. We had to pack out all of our waste and dispose of the placenta (also more on that to come). It was imperative that I bring all of it or, I don't know, I guess I'd still be pregnant! Fortunately, most of the medical stuffs WERE packed. You know what I didn't have? The baby's bag! Mom packed up some little ditties that worked temporarily. Haha, and once I got to the Farm, I realized that my suitcase was packed with underwire bras! Really! Who wears those after delivering!
Stay tuned!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
My Toddler This Week
How many of you get these emails from Baby Center? My email popped up in my inbox today and said
Your 1-year-old followed by my toddler this week
Tears - literally. I started crying. No more messages saying my baby this week. Am I ready for this?
But my intention for this post was to start telling my birthing story. I had grand plans to write and publish a whole book on the subject, but someone overestimated the amount of free time she would have in the comingweeks years!
My birthing story is a little different and may be inspiring to you or it may totally freak you out. You'll have to let me know.
Last year, April 18th was on a Sunday. I was 38 weeks pregnant. I remember vividly walking into church at 8:15 am and joining the praise team. Lisa looked at me and said, "You look so ready to have that baby." Well, yeah! I can't breathe, she's sitting on my sciatic nerve, nothing's comfortable. You know the drill. But I was not due for another 2 weeks and seeing as it was my first babe AND the midwife had said I would probably be overdue, I wasn't expecting the Bug to come for at least 4 more weeks. The thought was excruciating.
My sister and niece were in town. We went to the park where I played like a child - going down the slide, trying to pull myself across the monkey bars, swinging. Those poor people who had to look at the HUGELY pregnant woman! After the sister and niece left, I decided to take an epsom salt bath because I was feeling sore and swollen. The midwife said I could take as many epsom salt baths as I wanted. It was nice despite the beached whale feeling! I went to bed early (7:30 pm or so) as had become the norm. I woke up around 9 pm to use the bathroom (also the norm!) and hmmm...that's different...lots of water. I called for David and told him that I thought my water had broken and to call the midwife. I was shaking too badly to try to maneuver a phone. David explained the situation to Pamela, the midwife, and she said to get in the car and get down there ASAP.
Okay, so "down there" was The Farm in Summertown, TN. We were delivering with the Farm midwives, renowned for there expertise in all things baby-bearing. "Down there" was 1.5 hours away! This was NOT the plan. I wasn't done packing the boxes for our extended stay in our cabin in the woods. (We were staying for at least a week.) Our cabin wasn't even going to be ready for another 2 weeks! Where would they put us? We have to drive while I'm in labor? I was freaking out a little!
I called to my mother, who was in her room, "Mom, I need a little help." She came out fully expecting to help me bend down to pick something up or make a cup of tea, something "normal." I said, "My water just broke and I need a little help packing." Haha! She sprung into action, grabbing the list of things that needed to come with us and packing a suitcase for us. David's still on the phone with Pamela who's now telling him that we need to get in the car NOW and start driving. We decided that Mom could bring anything else we needed when she came later. We got in the car.
Now the good news was I was NOT having contractions of any significance yet, so the drive was not painful or scary, but really exciting. David and I chatted all the way down about what was to come. I mean, we were giddy! I called my sister - remember, the one who had just left to drive back to her home 3 hours away! - and told her that I was in labor. She had been planning on being there for the birth. She quick packed up and bag, turned around, and headed for Summertown. What a good sister!
We made it to The Farm by about 11:45 pm and Pamela showed us the little cabin that we were going to have our little Bug in. It was her cabin just a few steps away from the door to her own house! We got settled in, waited for the sister (who got there around 2 am, I think) and tried to get some sleep!
Stay tuned for the next installment. It gets good - I promise.
Your 1-year-old followed by my toddler this week
Tears - literally. I started crying. No more messages saying my baby this week. Am I ready for this?
But my intention for this post was to start telling my birthing story. I had grand plans to write and publish a whole book on the subject, but someone overestimated the amount of free time she would have in the coming
My birthing story is a little different and may be inspiring to you or it may totally freak you out. You'll have to let me know.
Last year, April 18th was on a Sunday. I was 38 weeks pregnant. I remember vividly walking into church at 8:15 am and joining the praise team. Lisa looked at me and said, "You look so ready to have that baby." Well, yeah! I can't breathe, she's sitting on my sciatic nerve, nothing's comfortable. You know the drill. But I was not due for another 2 weeks and seeing as it was my first babe AND the midwife had said I would probably be overdue, I wasn't expecting the Bug to come for at least 4 more weeks. The thought was excruciating.
My sister and niece were in town. We went to the park where I played like a child - going down the slide, trying to pull myself across the monkey bars, swinging. Those poor people who had to look at the HUGELY pregnant woman! After the sister and niece left, I decided to take an epsom salt bath because I was feeling sore and swollen. The midwife said I could take as many epsom salt baths as I wanted. It was nice despite the beached whale feeling! I went to bed early (7:30 pm or so) as had become the norm. I woke up around 9 pm to use the bathroom (also the norm!) and hmmm...that's different...lots of water. I called for David and told him that I thought my water had broken and to call the midwife. I was shaking too badly to try to maneuver a phone. David explained the situation to Pamela, the midwife, and she said to get in the car and get down there ASAP.
Okay, so "down there" was The Farm in Summertown, TN. We were delivering with the Farm midwives, renowned for there expertise in all things baby-bearing. "Down there" was 1.5 hours away! This was NOT the plan. I wasn't done packing the boxes for our extended stay in our cabin in the woods. (We were staying for at least a week.) Our cabin wasn't even going to be ready for another 2 weeks! Where would they put us? We have to drive while I'm in labor? I was freaking out a little!
I called to my mother, who was in her room, "Mom, I need a little help." She came out fully expecting to help me bend down to pick something up or make a cup of tea, something "normal." I said, "My water just broke and I need a little help packing." Haha! She sprung into action, grabbing the list of things that needed to come with us and packing a suitcase for us. David's still on the phone with Pamela who's now telling him that we need to get in the car NOW and start driving. We decided that Mom could bring anything else we needed when she came later. We got in the car.
Now the good news was I was NOT having contractions of any significance yet, so the drive was not painful or scary, but really exciting. David and I chatted all the way down about what was to come. I mean, we were giddy! I called my sister - remember, the one who had just left to drive back to her home 3 hours away! - and told her that I was in labor. She had been planning on being there for the birth. She quick packed up and bag, turned around, and headed for Summertown. What a good sister!
 | |
| This was our cabin |
Stay tuned for the next installment. It gets good - I promise.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
First Birthday Alert!
Hello my dear blog followers,
I must admit Undercover Month wore me out a little and I had to take a little break from blogging. I really have a new respect for you guys who put out blog posts every day! How do you do it?
Some things have been running through my brain recently. One big one is the Bug's first birthday. Many of you have reached this milestone already with your little ones. Some of you haven't. It's a first for me since she's my first child. I know people told me and continue to tell me how fast time goes and I shrugged and smiled. But time really does fly! I can't believe that my "tiny child" turns ONE next week! How is that possible? I talked to my attending midwife yesterday on the phone and we marveled at how it both seemed so long ago and just yesterday that The Bug made her appearance in the world.
I'm planning a "party" for her. Of course, it's more for the adults than for LB and a chance for the Hubs to showcase his first home brew! But I'm excited. Stay tuned for really adorable pictures of a newly one year old in her first tutu! In the meantime, any of you have a good recipe for a one year old's first cake? I'm looking for something with natural sugar, fruit, gluten free if possible. I think she would enjoy this based on her new found love for broccoli!
What did you do for your babe's first birthday?
I must admit Undercover Month wore me out a little and I had to take a little break from blogging. I really have a new respect for you guys who put out blog posts every day! How do you do it?
Some things have been running through my brain recently. One big one is the Bug's first birthday. Many of you have reached this milestone already with your little ones. Some of you haven't. It's a first for me since she's my first child. I know people told me and continue to tell me how fast time goes and I shrugged and smiled. But time really does fly! I can't believe that my "tiny child" turns ONE next week! How is that possible? I talked to my attending midwife yesterday on the phone and we marveled at how it both seemed so long ago and just yesterday that The Bug made her appearance in the world.
I'm planning a "party" for her. Of course, it's more for the adults than for LB and a chance for the Hubs to showcase his first home brew! But I'm excited. Stay tuned for really adorable pictures of a newly one year old in her first tutu! In the meantime, any of you have a good recipe for a one year old's first cake? I'm looking for something with natural sugar, fruit, gluten free if possible. I think she would enjoy this based on her new found love for broccoli!
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| http://broccolicupcake.com/ |
What did you do for your babe's first birthday?
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Earth Day: Grandma
Getting geared up for my Earth Day event. Come on out and join - Saturday, 4/16 from 1-2 or Friday, 4/22 from 6-7 - and learn how to make your home (and the planet) a healthier and safer place for you and your family.
Shaklee Videos: Earth Day: Grandma
Shaklee Videos: Earth Day: Grandma
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Before I announce winners...!!!
I have two winners to announce from my UCM giveaways - yay! - but a couple of things first...
1. We reached 100 followers on the blog. Thank you! That's so cool. I hope you enjoy reading a little bit about our little lives.
2. Do a little something before you scroll down to the winners - I want you to find one person, in person, on the phone, by text, email...you pick...I want you to tell them how much you love him/her and give him/her a hug, kiss, some sort of sign of affection. Why?...because life is fragile and you don't know what the next day or even the next hour will bring. You have to love on people right now. So...what are you waiting for...go do it!
Now on to winners! This was fun for me. I've always heard of the magic of random.org and have been shown my share of love my the site, but I'd never gotten to use it.
Thirsties Fab Fitted
Out of 363 entries, random.org selected 339 - Alexis Lombardi.
Congratulations Alexis, I'm emailing you now. Show her some love. In her entry she said that she is brand new at cloth diapering and doesn't have any diapers yet. So I'm thrilled to supply you with your very first!
Econobum OS Diaper
Out of 129 entries, randowm.org selected 114 - Ashley T.
Congrats, Ashley, check your email. You're going to enjoy your new diaper. We sure love ours.
Thanks to all who participated in Undercover Month.
1. We reached 100 followers on the blog. Thank you! That's so cool. I hope you enjoy reading a little bit about our little lives.
2. Do a little something before you scroll down to the winners - I want you to find one person, in person, on the phone, by text, email...you pick...I want you to tell them how much you love him/her and give him/her a hug, kiss, some sort of sign of affection. Why?...because life is fragile and you don't know what the next day or even the next hour will bring. You have to love on people right now. So...what are you waiting for...go do it!
Now on to winners! This was fun for me. I've always heard of the magic of random.org and have been shown my share of love my the site, but I'd never gotten to use it.
Thirsties Fab Fitted
Out of 363 entries, random.org selected 339 - Alexis Lombardi.
Congratulations Alexis, I'm emailing you now. Show her some love. In her entry she said that she is brand new at cloth diapering and doesn't have any diapers yet. So I'm thrilled to supply you with your very first!
Econobum OS Diaper
Out of 129 entries, randowm.org selected 114 - Ashley T.
Congrats, Ashley, check your email. You're going to enjoy your new diaper. We sure love ours.
Thanks to all who participated in Undercover Month.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Undercover Month - Closure
Hey guys, sorry I missed the past few days of undercover week. It's been an interesting week here to say the least. I've been keeping up with the other participating blogs (even entering some giveaways :) and have learned a whole lot about fitteds, prefolds, and covers. I hope you have too. My giveaways are both open until 3/31, so keep the entries coming!
Take care all and thanks for following!
Take care all and thanks for following!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Spring (and allergy season) has sprung!
Hello! Has anyone else noticed layers of green/yellow pollen on their windshields? Can we say allergy season?!
You may or may not know how horrible my allergies are. I often forget how bad they are until allergy season hits and then I feel like I'm DYING! No joke. Itchy eyes, runny/stuffy nose, headache, nausea. Blech! I recently stumbled across this allergy testimony and I wanted to share it with you.
I had been told by allergists that it was easier to tell me what I was NOT allergic to than what I was. So I resigned to a life of taking prescription medications, allergy shots that would make me sick, and nasal sprays that were awful. Then, I decided to get cats. Now .. I know what you’re thinking, "He's allergic to everything ... surely cats are on the list!", and you'd be right. But this time I remembered the Shaklee Alfalfa from my youth and I remembered reading info about Shaklee’s NutriFeron. I went online and ordered these two products. I got the cats. I got my product and started taking it. Then I waited to see what would happen. And here's the best part -
Nothing happened!
No sneezing, No runny nose, No feeling miserable, and No more prescription medications with nasty side effects. NOTHING! I can actually live in a house with cats and not have an allergic reaction. It's amazing, to say the least. I don't get that lethargic feeling the medications would cause. I have more energy. I sleep better. Get this.. the only times I feel my allergies kick back up is when I forget to take my Alfalfa and NutriFeron! I also wanted to let you know I have chosen to build a Shaklee business. After years of working crazy schedules and stressful jobs I decided to take control of my life. I know in my soul that I made the right choice. Just as Dr. Shaklee said years ago, "Your future will be exactly what you decide to make it", I have decided to make a different future for myself. One that includes helping people live better lives. One that allows me to be with my family and friends. One that lets me be myself.
-Tim Bowden
I realized that last time I was being treated for my allergies by an allergist, I was spending $100/month on allergy shots and roughly $50/month on prescription meds. Having no interest in spending that much money pumping my body with chemicals, I immediately ordered both Alfalfa and Nutriferon. David and I both started taking it about a week ago. So far, I've noticed a significant decrease in my itchy, runny eyes and fewer headaches. I'm very hopeful that this will be the cure for my allergies. Maybe we can get a cat!
FYI - While typing this message, David turned to me and said that he feels better than he ever felt when taking his allergy meds. Sweet!
Order your allergy magic today!
Nutriferon
Alfalfa
AND!!...If you order both and become a Shaklee member before the end of March, you will get a Cinch Sample Pack (a $101 value) for free! Isn't that awesome!
-Kristina
--
Better Health - Better World
Visit my website at www.kyeouze.myshaklee.com
Want to be a WAHM? (Working at Home Mom) Ask me how.
www.projectmahma.com/kyeouze
You may or may not know how horrible my allergies are. I often forget how bad they are until allergy season hits and then I feel like I'm DYING! No joke. Itchy eyes, runny/stuffy nose, headache, nausea. Blech! I recently stumbled across this allergy testimony and I wanted to share it with you.
I had been told by allergists that it was easier to tell me what I was NOT allergic to than what I was. So I resigned to a life of taking prescription medications, allergy shots that would make me sick, and nasal sprays that were awful. Then, I decided to get cats. Now .. I know what you’re thinking, "He's allergic to everything ... surely cats are on the list!", and you'd be right. But this time I remembered the Shaklee Alfalfa from my youth and I remembered reading info about Shaklee’s NutriFeron. I went online and ordered these two products. I got the cats. I got my product and started taking it. Then I waited to see what would happen. And here's the best part -
Nothing happened!
No sneezing, No runny nose, No feeling miserable, and No more prescription medications with nasty side effects. NOTHING! I can actually live in a house with cats and not have an allergic reaction. It's amazing, to say the least. I don't get that lethargic feeling the medications would cause. I have more energy. I sleep better. Get this.. the only times I feel my allergies kick back up is when I forget to take my Alfalfa and NutriFeron! I also wanted to let you know I have chosen to build a Shaklee business. After years of working crazy schedules and stressful jobs I decided to take control of my life. I know in my soul that I made the right choice. Just as Dr. Shaklee said years ago, "Your future will be exactly what you decide to make it", I have decided to make a different future for myself. One that includes helping people live better lives. One that allows me to be with my family and friends. One that lets me be myself.
-Tim Bowden
I realized that last time I was being treated for my allergies by an allergist, I was spending $100/month on allergy shots and roughly $50/month on prescription meds. Having no interest in spending that much money pumping my body with chemicals, I immediately ordered both Alfalfa and Nutriferon. David and I both started taking it about a week ago. So far, I've noticed a significant decrease in my itchy, runny eyes and fewer headaches. I'm very hopeful that this will be the cure for my allergies. Maybe we can get a cat!
FYI - While typing this message, David turned to me and said that he feels better than he ever felt when taking his allergy meds. Sweet!
Order your allergy magic today!
Nutriferon
Alfalfa
AND!!...If you order both and become a Shaklee member before the end of March, you will get a Cinch Sample Pack (a $101 value) for free! Isn't that awesome!
-Kristina
--
Better Health - Better World
Visit my website at www.kyeouze.myshaklee.com
Want to be a WAHM? (Working at Home Mom) Ask me how.
www.projectmahma.com/kyeouze
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Forty41 - Repurposed Wool Diaper Cover Soaker Review Only
It's still covers week! Are you guys learning stuff? I hope so. Covers really are a great way to go. Today I'm going to chat a little about WOOL. Have you ever tried or wanted to try wool? I really encourage you to give it a go if you haven't already. I'm not going to go into great detail about the amazing features of wool in my posts this week, but if you're interested in learning more, I HIGHLY recommend that you check out my friend Lindsey's blog, So Easy Being Green. She's got a wool event going on right now and I'm learning all kinds of great things (not to mention loving the giveaways over there!). Thanks Lindsey
So, you've read about my experience with fitteds to weeks ago. I actually got the fitteds first and then realized that I needed something to go over them, preferably that would offer a good nighttime solution. I found Forty41 on ETSY through another blogger and convo-ed Melissa and asked her what she thought would work well. She got me set up with this adorable Repurposed GAP Wool Sweater made from 98% Lambswool. She lanolizes her covers prior to shipping which was a HUGE plus for me as I hadn't actually braved lanolizing anything yet and was still pretty intimidated by the process! I ordered it immediately and it arrived in the mail 2 days later. Seriously, two days! I was amazed! The packaging was to die for - of course I tore right into it before I thought to take a picture! Melissa also included a sample package of grapefruit Eucalan wool wash.
I put the cover over my newly prepped Thirsties Fab-Fitted and put the Bug to bed for the night. No leaks!! I was in love.
Just quickly, here's what I love about wool:
* all natural fibers that are breathable!
* self-cleaning - WHAT?! How does this even make sense? I don't know and I don't really care. All I know is that I don't have to wash it all the time. Just every month or so.
* Green option - many wool soakers are made from repurposed wool - think old sweater. Actually I have a sweater - my absolute fav. that I shrunk in the wash - that I want to have made into a soaker. Isn't that a good idea!
* Super absorbent - holds 3x its weight it liquid
When it came time to wash my cover (you only have to wash wool every 3-4 weeks or when stinky - SWEET!) I was so paranoid about the lanolizing process and actually didn't do it right the first 2 times creating some leaking. Then I happened across this video from Nifty Nappy that made lanolizing make oh so much more sense. My soaker works like a dream now. Thank you!
If you are thinking about trying wool, I highly recommend that you contact Melissa at Forty41 and let her know what you're looking for or what you're fears are!
Good luck!
So, you've read about my experience with fitteds to weeks ago. I actually got the fitteds first and then realized that I needed something to go over them, preferably that would offer a good nighttime solution. I found Forty41 on ETSY through another blogger and convo-ed Melissa and asked her what she thought would work well. She got me set up with this adorable Repurposed GAP Wool Sweater made from 98% Lambswool. She lanolizes her covers prior to shipping which was a HUGE plus for me as I hadn't actually braved lanolizing anything yet and was still pretty intimidated by the process! I ordered it immediately and it arrived in the mail 2 days later. Seriously, two days! I was amazed! The packaging was to die for - of course I tore right into it before I thought to take a picture! Melissa also included a sample package of grapefruit Eucalan wool wash.
I put the cover over my newly prepped Thirsties Fab-Fitted and put the Bug to bed for the night. No leaks!! I was in love.
Just quickly, here's what I love about wool:
* all natural fibers that are breathable!
* self-cleaning - WHAT?! How does this even make sense? I don't know and I don't really care. All I know is that I don't have to wash it all the time. Just every month or so.
* Green option - many wool soakers are made from repurposed wool - think old sweater. Actually I have a sweater - my absolute fav. that I shrunk in the wash - that I want to have made into a soaker. Isn't that a good idea!
* Super absorbent - holds 3x its weight it liquid
When it came time to wash my cover (you only have to wash wool every 3-4 weeks or when stinky - SWEET!) I was so paranoid about the lanolizing process and actually didn't do it right the first 2 times creating some leaking. Then I happened across this video from Nifty Nappy that made lanolizing make oh so much more sense. My soaker works like a dream now. Thank you!
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| Covers her Thirsties really well! |
If you are thinking about trying wool, I highly recommend that you contact Melissa at Forty41 and let her know what you're looking for or what you're fears are!
Good luck!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Weehugger Diaper Cover Review
The first cover I ever purchased (when the Bug was about 4 months old) was this cute little number from Weehugger.
I was looking for something that I could stuff with my current stash of microfiber that went with a hybrid system that I was beginning to dislike. I chose the Weehugger for a few reasons:
1. The cute factor - naturally!
2. I read good reviews
3. All natural fibers touching baby's skin
4. Made in the USA - Knoxville, TN to be exact!
When I received the Weehugger, I was enamored with the vibrant print which incidentally matches my diaper/wet bag! I nearly instantly put one of my microfibers into it and got it on the Bug's bum. It leaked. I tried it again. It leaked again. Now let me tell you, this was quite early in my cloth diapering days and I was far from a CDing expert. I was sure that the leaking was operator error and not diaper error! After a few more tries and more leaks, I emailed Lisa Versaci, founder of Weehuggers to see what tips she had to offer. Within minutes (seriously - minutes!) she had emailed back with some very good tips one of which being the suggestion that the microfiber was either not enough stuffing or possibly repelling.
We conversed back and forth through a few more emails (did I emphasize enough how delightful and resposive Lisa is!) and finally determined that it was the stuffing option and she recommended that I try something else to stuff. That was the deciding moment for me to try prefolds! I ordered a 6 pack of unbleached Indian prefolds. And, let me tell you - we haven't had a leak in the Weehugger since then. Not only was I a Weehugger convert, but I became a prefold convert!
So what do I like about my Weehugger now that I know a little bit about what I like and don't like in a CD/cover:
* I love the angled snaps. The Bug has chunky thighs and needs that space in the leg. The angle allows for that as well as is easier to snap in my opinion.
* The leg gussets - I'm sure this is what prevents leaking.
* The flaps at the front and back to tuck the diaper in and the fact that it is made from all natural fibers
* The ability to use it over and over without washing
* That it is OS - it will fit the Bug until potty training time. Now that's economical!
* LISA!! - I have become so disenchanted with shotty customer service recently. What a testimony to womankind to have someone so committed to good customer service and superior products.
Here is what the Weehugger website has to say about their covers:
 |
| Thank you blogger, for auto rotating my picture! |
I was looking for something that I could stuff with my current stash of microfiber that went with a hybrid system that I was beginning to dislike. I chose the Weehugger for a few reasons:
1. The cute factor - naturally!
2. I read good reviews
3. All natural fibers touching baby's skin
4. Made in the USA - Knoxville, TN to be exact!
When I received the Weehugger, I was enamored with the vibrant print which incidentally matches my diaper/wet bag! I nearly instantly put one of my microfibers into it and got it on the Bug's bum. It leaked. I tried it again. It leaked again. Now let me tell you, this was quite early in my cloth diapering days and I was far from a CDing expert. I was sure that the leaking was operator error and not diaper error! After a few more tries and more leaks, I emailed Lisa Versaci, founder of Weehuggers to see what tips she had to offer. Within minutes (seriously - minutes!) she had emailed back with some very good tips one of which being the suggestion that the microfiber was either not enough stuffing or possibly repelling.
We conversed back and forth through a few more emails (did I emphasize enough how delightful and resposive Lisa is!) and finally determined that it was the stuffing option and she recommended that I try something else to stuff. That was the deciding moment for me to try prefolds! I ordered a 6 pack of unbleached Indian prefolds. And, let me tell you - we haven't had a leak in the Weehugger since then. Not only was I a Weehugger convert, but I became a prefold convert!
So what do I like about my Weehugger now that I know a little bit about what I like and don't like in a CD/cover:
* I love the angled snaps. The Bug has chunky thighs and needs that space in the leg. The angle allows for that as well as is easier to snap in my opinion.
 |
| If you look closely, you can see the angle snaps. |
* The leg gussets - I'm sure this is what prevents leaking.
 |
| Nice for chunky thighs! |
* The flaps at the front and back to tuck the diaper in and the fact that it is made from all natural fibers
* The ability to use it over and over without washing
* That it is OS - it will fit the Bug until potty training time. Now that's economical!
* LISA!! - I have become so disenchanted with shotty customer service recently. What a testimony to womankind to have someone so committed to good customer service and superior products.
Here is what the Weehugger website has to say about their covers:
ADJUSTABLE COVERS
Our new weehuggers™ diaper covers are simple, reusable and waterproof with true leg gussets and adjustable snaps that allow them to grow with your baby.
This easy to use cover comes in your choice of snap closures or our unique, adorable mitten-shaped hook and loop closures. Both offer an adjustable, secure fit. The all new weehuggers™ covers are available in durable waterproof polyester solids and designer cotton prints in both baby and toddler sizes.
Pair the new covers with our absorbent bamboo inserts, cotton pre-folds, fitteds, or even biodegradable gDiaper inserts for a complete diapering solution.
Our covers feature stay-put bamboo/organic cotton flaps that insure your insert stays in place. The natural fibers gently wick moisture away from your babies' delicate skin.
This easy to use cover comes in your choice of snap closures or our unique, adorable mitten-shaped hook and loop closures. Both offer an adjustable, secure fit. The all new weehuggers™ covers are available in durable waterproof polyester solids and designer cotton prints in both baby and toddler sizes.
Pair the new covers with our absorbent bamboo inserts, cotton pre-folds, fitteds, or even biodegradable gDiaper inserts for a complete diapering solution.
Our covers feature stay-put bamboo/organic cotton flaps that insure your insert stays in place. The natural fibers gently wick moisture away from your babies' delicate skin.
MADE IN THE USA!
We take pride in the fact that everything we sell is sewn with care by our friends and partners in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Our bamboo and certified organic cotton fabric is made in the USA and processed using GOTS organic finishing techniques.
Our bamboo and certified organic cotton fabric is made in the USA and processed using GOTS organic finishing techniques.
REUSABLE * SUSTAINABLE
Of course cloth diapering is about more than the adorable styles and cost savings. It’s about our planet and our children’s future. Using (and reusing) cloth is a great way to reduce your contribution to landfills and deforestation.
Our choice of bamboo isn’t just because it’s super soft and ultra absorbent. It’s also one of the most sustainable fibers on the planet. Growing at an astonishing foot or more per day, bamboo thrives in virtually any condition without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Bamboo fabrics breathe, are naturally antibacterial and non-allergenic.
So that's it! We love our Weehugger. You will love yours too!
Buy One: Weehuggers are available from many fine retailers for about $19. You can find one near you on the Weehugger site.
Our choice of bamboo isn’t just because it’s super soft and ultra absorbent. It’s also one of the most sustainable fibers on the planet. Growing at an astonishing foot or more per day, bamboo thrives in virtually any condition without chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Bamboo fabrics breathe, are naturally antibacterial and non-allergenic.
So that's it! We love our Weehugger. You will love yours too!
Buy One: Weehuggers are available from many fine retailers for about $19. You can find one near you on the Weehugger site.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Project MAHMA
Ever dream of making a difference in people's live while earning an income. I know I do! That's why I got a Master's Degree in Counseling after all.
Join us this Saturday to learn more about how other moms and dads are helping families live healthier and more independent lives.
BEST OF PROJECT MAHMA
SATURDAY OPPORTUNITY CALL
CALL INFORMATION:
Sat., March 19, 20118:00 a.m. Pacific
9:00 a.m. Mountain
10:00 a.m. Central
11:00 a.m. Eastern
DIAL: 212-990-8000
PIN: 6262#
Exotic travel is just one of the many perks you can enjoy as you build your Shaklee business. This week’s Project MAHMA call is a special encore presentation of the Best of Project MAHMA featuring moms and dads who had just returned from the 2010 Shaklee Incentive Cruise to the Western Caribbean.
Our moderator is Project MAHMA co-founder Jude Peskuski (Senior Key Coordinator, TX). Jude is the proud mom of two wonderful boys, John and Jay. She began what she refers to as her "Sesame Street hobby" back in 1981, earning $500 a month. As Jude says, "Shaklee has been the vehicle for me to have more dreams come true than I ever imagined. I've traveled to Hawaii eight times and visited Australia, Hong Kong, Europe and the Western Caribbean on the Imagine 2010 incentive cruise!" Today Jude, along with her Project MAHMA co-founder husband, Jack, earns a six-figure income* and loves contributing to people's health and well-being and making their dreams come true.
Join us this Saturday to learn more about how other moms and dads are helping families live healthier and more independent lives.
BEST OF PROJECT MAHMA
SATURDAY OPPORTUNITY CALL
CALL INFORMATION:
Sat., March 19, 20118:00 a.m. Pacific
9:00 a.m. Mountain
10:00 a.m. Central
11:00 a.m. Eastern
DIAL: 212-990-8000
PIN: 6262#
Exotic travel is just one of the many perks you can enjoy as you build your Shaklee business. This week’s Project MAHMA call is a special encore presentation of the Best of Project MAHMA featuring moms and dads who had just returned from the 2010 Shaklee Incentive Cruise to the Western Caribbean.
Our moderator is Project MAHMA co-founder Jude Peskuski (Senior Key Coordinator, TX). Jude is the proud mom of two wonderful boys, John and Jay. She began what she refers to as her "Sesame Street hobby" back in 1981, earning $500 a month. As Jude says, "Shaklee has been the vehicle for me to have more dreams come true than I ever imagined. I've traveled to Hawaii eight times and visited Australia, Hong Kong, Europe and the Western Caribbean on the Imagine 2010 incentive cruise!" Today Jude, along with her Project MAHMA co-founder husband, Jack, earns a six-figure income* and loves contributing to people's health and well-being and making their dreams come true.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
The Truth
This week is supposed to include information about using flats. I am very interested in flats and their use, but the truth is - I'm terrified of them!! When I agreed to write for this event, my plan was to purchase a sample of everything - a fitted, a prefold, a cover, and a FLAT. I picked out flats and added them to various shopping carts. I received reminder emails from sites, "It looks like you added items to your cart, but did not check out. Was there a problem?" (or something to that effect). Ummm, yes, there is a problem. I have no idea what to do with a flat. Origami folding required? Have I mentioned that I am fine-motor skill challenged!
So here's the deal - I'm hoping to learn about flats this week too, right along side of you guys. By the end of the week I want to be a flat ninja and I will finally complete that transaction for the flat. How does that sound?
Feel free to leave fear-quenching comments regarding flats and their usage below.
So here's the deal - I'm hoping to learn about flats this week too, right along side of you guys. By the end of the week I want to be a flat ninja and I will finally complete that transaction for the flat. How does that sound?
Feel free to leave fear-quenching comments regarding flats and their usage below.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Econobum One Size Diaper - Review and Giveaway
If you've been following my blog during Undercover Month, you may know that I purchased a smattering of new diapers and covers for 2 reasons: 1) to replace diapers in my stash that were not working for us and 2) for the sake of research! The Econobum OS cover and prefold was one such purchase. As always, I forgot to take a picture of the packaging because I was too excited to get the diaper prepped. Sigh** so much for my quest for patience!
Here are some of the features of the Econobum as seen on the Cotton Babies website:
Here is my experience with the Econobum OS cover and prefold in pictures:
The Verdict:
The Econobum OS prefold and cover was a pleasant surprise. I will admit, I was not expecting much for $9.95. I figured worst case scenario, I'd have a new prefold to add to the stash. I really never dreamed the cover would work. Call me skeptical! After prepping the prefold, I snapped the cover to the medium setting, folded the prefold longways, and put it on the Bug. The fit was reasonably good although a little messy around the waist. I love the option of just laying the prefold in the cover. No need to pins or snappis.The cover is much thinner than our other covers. I could see the prefold right through it. And it's certainly not the cutest diaper in our stash. But this affordable simpleton did its job. No leaks, no marks. Our Econobum is now a staple in our rotation. I actually like its thinness because it takes up less room in the diaper bag. One drawback is that the cover stained pretty easily. The Bug seems to know when she has a new diaper on and almost always obliges by pooping in it, which is great for testing out a diaper's efficacy, but annoying nonetheless! The cover did stain around the leg gussets after the first poop. But it DID NOT leak. And isn't that what we're all looking for? Another bonus of this duo is that you can use the cover with any prefold or fitted AND you can use the prefold inside other covers. Nice!
The giveaway will close at 11:59 pm on Thursday, March 31. Please use the Google Form to enter. Comments on this post are appreciated, but not counted as entries. You can view all entries to this giveaway on the spreadsheet. This may be useful for you to view how many entries there are and to double check if you've already entered.
Open to U.S. residents only. Winner will be chosen by random.org. The winner will be announced on the blog as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. The opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own. I was not paid, coerced or bribed to write a glowing review.
Here are some of the features of the Econobum as seen on the Cotton Babies website:
Why econobum?
Econobum™ is the cloth diapering solution for every budget! Save money while making the environmentally friendly choice to cloth diaper little one's bum. The one-size cover and prefold adjusts to grow along with your little one.
Each Econobum Single Pack includes
1 one-size cover and 1 one-size prefold.
1 one-size cover and 1 one-size prefold.
Econobum features:
• A waterproof shell, so no extra cover is needed.
• Form fitting elastic to prevent leaks.
• Easy to use snaps.
• One-size prefold easily adjusts from small to large to grow with your baby.
• No stuffing involved just lay prefold in cover and go!
• Patent pending 3x3 adjustable snap system to fit most babies from birth to potty training.
Washing Instructions
Wash hot, line dry cover, tumble dry prefold. No laundry additives or softeners.
Prior to first use, prefolds must be washed 3-5 times in hot water with a small amount of detergent to ensure maximum absorbency.
Fabric Content
Cover: 100% Laminated Polyester
Prefold: 100% Unbleached Cotton
Package Includes:
1 one-size 100% cotton prefold
1 one-size cover
Here is my experience with the Econobum OS cover and prefold in pictures:
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| This is the cover. I got the zinnia trim. Very pretty! |
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| This is the prefold. |
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| Folded for small sizing |
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| Folded for med/large sizing |
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| This is what the cover looks like when stuffed. The Bug wears hers on the Medium snap setting and the prefold folded for med/large. |
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| A little see-through because of the thin fabric. (We lost the mates to each of those socks. You know how that is!) |
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| Nice fit around the bum |
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| Looks a little messy around the snaps, but totally functional. |
The Econobum OS prefold and cover was a pleasant surprise. I will admit, I was not expecting much for $9.95. I figured worst case scenario, I'd have a new prefold to add to the stash. I really never dreamed the cover would work. Call me skeptical! After prepping the prefold, I snapped the cover to the medium setting, folded the prefold longways, and put it on the Bug. The fit was reasonably good although a little messy around the waist. I love the option of just laying the prefold in the cover. No need to pins or snappis.The cover is much thinner than our other covers. I could see the prefold right through it. And it's certainly not the cutest diaper in our stash. But this affordable simpleton did its job. No leaks, no marks. Our Econobum is now a staple in our rotation. I actually like its thinness because it takes up less room in the diaper bag. One drawback is that the cover stained pretty easily. The Bug seems to know when she has a new diaper on and almost always obliges by pooping in it, which is great for testing out a diaper's efficacy, but annoying nonetheless! The cover did stain around the leg gussets after the first poop. But it DID NOT leak. And isn't that what we're all looking for? Another bonus of this duo is that you can use the cover with any prefold or fitted AND you can use the prefold inside other covers. Nice!
Buy It: Econobum One Size Diapers are available from many retailers such as Cotton Babies.
A single pack which included the cover and one prefold runs about $9.95!
Win It!!: You can win your very own Econobum single pack with moonbeam trim right here on my blog! Sweet, right!! Please use the form below to enter and have fun.
The giveaway will close at 11:59 pm on Thursday, March 31. Please use the Google Form to enter. Comments on this post are appreciated, but not counted as entries. You can view all entries to this giveaway on the spreadsheet. This may be useful for you to view how many entries there are and to double check if you've already entered.
Open to U.S. residents only. Winner will be chosen by random.org. The winner will be announced on the blog as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. The opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own. I was not paid, coerced or bribed to write a glowing review.
Monday, March 14, 2011
What to do with a Prefold
I've been using infant prefolds for quite some time as stuffing for my covers. But Kristina from Cloth Diaper Addiction sent me a snappi when I won a diaper during their 12 Days of Clothmas back in December. I heard of the snappi, but I had NO IDEA how such a thing worked.
I scoured the instructions and quickly learned that it would never work on my tiny little prefolds, so I purchased this unbleached OsoCozy Indian Prefold from Mom's Milk Boutique. (Love their free shipping!)
I have tried the following steps on the Little Bug, with success, however; she was not feeling all together cooperative when I was photographing.
Now, I'm not a prefold folding expert by any stretch of the imagination (I'm hoping to learn about folding this week from the other blogs!), so I tried folding it how I remembered my mom folding my younger siblings diapers - Tri-fold
I thought folding the front in would be a good move for keeping leaks to a minimum, so I did that.
I fanned out the bum area to accommodate the Bug's posterior.
Then I fold the front part to the back and overlap the "wings" so that they are laying on the front of the diaper.
Okay here's the tricky part. I have arguably the WORST fine motor skills. So if I can get a snappi on a prefold, you can too! Remember the picture of those snarly snappi teeth? Well, hook one side of the snappi onto the wing of the diaper. I start with the left side. Those teeth will grab the fabric and hold it.
Pull the snappi firmly across the diaper and hook those teeth into the other wing.
Then pull the center hook down and let it grab the fabric in the center of the diaper. Don't worry, it won't hurt the babe. Although, those teeth DO hurt if you snag it on your finger!
This is what it looks like all done. Now just insert wiggly baby!
Ha, or not! I'm sure your sweet babe will be much more accommodating!
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| This is a snappi. |
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| These are its teeth. |
I scoured the instructions and quickly learned that it would never work on my tiny little prefolds, so I purchased this unbleached OsoCozy Indian Prefold from Mom's Milk Boutique. (Love their free shipping!)
 |
| Premium fits 15-30lbs, 4x8x4 |
Now, I'm not a prefold folding expert by any stretch of the imagination (I'm hoping to learn about folding this week from the other blogs!), so I tried folding it how I remembered my mom folding my younger siblings diapers - Tri-fold
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| Tri-folded Indian Prefold |
I thought folding the front in would be a good move for keeping leaks to a minimum, so I did that.
 |
| Front folded down about an 1" |
I fanned out the bum area to accommodate the Bug's posterior.
Then I fold the front part to the back and overlap the "wings" so that they are laying on the front of the diaper.
 |
| Isn't it starting to look like a diaper? |
Okay here's the tricky part. I have arguably the WORST fine motor skills. So if I can get a snappi on a prefold, you can too! Remember the picture of those snarly snappi teeth? Well, hook one side of the snappi onto the wing of the diaper. I start with the left side. Those teeth will grab the fabric and hold it.
 |
| Attach one side of snappi to the wing. |
Pull the snappi firmly across the diaper and hook those teeth into the other wing.
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| Hooking the other side |
 |
| Pull down the center part and let it grab fabric. |
This is what it looks like all done. Now just insert wiggly baby!
Ha, or not! I'm sure your sweet babe will be much more accommodating!
This is What my Model Does in her "Off" Time
I thought these were funny enough to share with you guys. The Little Bug is really not very cooperative with her modeling position. I don't know how you other mama bloggers get such great pictures of your kids in diapers. Here is what my kid was doing while I was working hard to document how to use a snappi!
If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!
If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Undercover Month - week 2 Prefolds and Flats
Welcome, welcome welcome to week to of Undercover Month where we'll be discussing prefolds and flats. You may think of these little numbers as the "old school" diapers, the ones that your mothers and grandmothers used (I know mine did. I very vividly remember changing my siblings' diapers and sticking myself with pins and marveling at the ugliness of plastic pants!) You may be thinking, "Why on earth would I want to use those?" There are some very good reasons why. Here are some off the top of my head:
1. Affordability - these diapers are crazy cheap. I paid roughly $2/diaper for my unbleached Indian prefolds.
2. Versatility - I like that I can fold my prefolds up and lay them into a cover or I can use a snappi to hold the prefold on underneath wool longies or a soaker.
3. All natural fibers - I know I care about what fabrics touch the Bug's delicate skin. She's a read head afterall! I use PUL and microfiber because of its prevalence in the CD world, but I really prefer the organic cotton and wool options afforded by the prefolds.
4. Compact - Prefolds just don't take up as much room in the diaper bag. I toss a few in the bag along with an extra cover and we're good to go. They also don't take up as much room in our diaper staging area.
So stay tuned to Little Baby Bug and the other participating blogs for some good tips on prefolds and flats (and Giveaways!)
1. Affordability - these diapers are crazy cheap. I paid roughly $2/diaper for my unbleached Indian prefolds.
2. Versatility - I like that I can fold my prefolds up and lay them into a cover or I can use a snappi to hold the prefold on underneath wool longies or a soaker.
3. All natural fibers - I know I care about what fabrics touch the Bug's delicate skin. She's a read head afterall! I use PUL and microfiber because of its prevalence in the CD world, but I really prefer the organic cotton and wool options afforded by the prefolds.
4. Compact - Prefolds just don't take up as much room in the diaper bag. I toss a few in the bag along with an extra cover and we're good to go. They also don't take up as much room in our diaper staging area.
So stay tuned to Little Baby Bug and the other participating blogs for some good tips on prefolds and flats (and Giveaways!)
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Final Verdict on "Undercover Fitted"
I must admit, I had a good time exploring the world of fitteds and I was able to add 3 new fitteds to my stash - always a good time. But what do I think about them.
Here's how they fit into our cloth diapering lives:
I love using my fitteds underneath my wool soaker and longies. They are, by far, the easiest. I am in no way a "snappi master" so I have a hard time using prefolds under my wool. (Haha...more on the motor-skilled challenged using a snappi next week!) They are absorbent and I do not have leaking issues with the Thirsties fitted, but I need to add extra stuffing to the Kissaluvs. Fitteds are still not my preference to use with a PUL cover. Perhaps I just do not have the right cover for a bulky fitted, but I just can't get the diaper to fit underneath the cover satisfactorily. I prefer my prefolds when using PUL covers. (More on this later.)
So that's it. That's what I learned. Above all, I've learned that every cloth diapering family has different needs, wants, and expectations of their diapers. So you'll have to try fitteds out for yourself to form your own opinion. Hope you've learned something this week too.
Happy diapering and stay tuned next week for Undercover Prefolds and Flats!
Here's how they fit into our cloth diapering lives:
I love using my fitteds underneath my wool soaker and longies. They are, by far, the easiest. I am in no way a "snappi master" so I have a hard time using prefolds under my wool. (Haha...more on the motor-skilled challenged using a snappi next week!) They are absorbent and I do not have leaking issues with the Thirsties fitted, but I need to add extra stuffing to the Kissaluvs. Fitteds are still not my preference to use with a PUL cover. Perhaps I just do not have the right cover for a bulky fitted, but I just can't get the diaper to fit underneath the cover satisfactorily. I prefer my prefolds when using PUL covers. (More on this later.)
So that's it. That's what I learned. Above all, I've learned that every cloth diapering family has different needs, wants, and expectations of their diapers. So you'll have to try fitteds out for yourself to form your own opinion. Hope you've learned something this week too.
Happy diapering and stay tuned next week for Undercover Prefolds and Flats!
Friday, March 11, 2011
When and Where To Use a Fitted?
I'm going to lump these together because the answers are really quite similar despite the stretch in getting there. Let's call it poetic license, shall we.
I can't resist the "Captain Obvious" response - "On baby's bottom." But seriously, you can use a fitted anywhere you'd like. In fact, they can be quite convenient on the go because you've already got a cover going. Might as well keep slapping a fitted underneath it.
And when?...The fitted is a great option for nighttime use. In fact, I was searching for a good nighttime solution when I decided to participate in this event (I admit, I was a 'sposie user at night and TERRIFIED to try anything else. After all, the Bug has enough trouble sleeping. I didn't want to add the problem of a wet diaper to the mix.) I was quite excited to try my new fitteds on my very heavy nighttime wetter.
I can't resist the "Captain Obvious" response - "On baby's bottom." But seriously, you can use a fitted anywhere you'd like. In fact, they can be quite convenient on the go because you've already got a cover going. Might as well keep slapping a fitted underneath it.
And when?...The fitted is a great option for nighttime use. In fact, I was searching for a good nighttime solution when I decided to participate in this event (I admit, I was a 'sposie user at night and TERRIFIED to try anything else. After all, the Bug has enough trouble sleeping. I didn't want to add the problem of a wet diaper to the mix.) I was quite excited to try my new fitteds on my very heavy nighttime wetter.
Spreadsheet is visible now
Sorry to all of you who have been trying to see the entries on the spreadsheet. Again, I'm new at this and there is a learning curve. It should be visible to you guys now so you can keep track of your entries and how many entries there are. Have fun!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
"Who" can use a fitted?
YOU! Your husband! Your mother-in-law! Your dog! Okay, maybe not, but you get the picture. Anyone can use a fitted. No pins, no snappi, no folding necessary. It's truly a "just add water" diaper. The key thing to remember when using a fitted is ALWAYS USE A COVER. Just because it looks like an AIO or a pocket diaper does not mean that it has the water proof layer. We'll talk more about covers later in the month.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
What? - My First Fitted
So I'm sure you're wondering which Fitted I chose for my first fitted experiment...aren't you? Come on, admit it! I went shopping at Kelly's Closet (love the store!) and found this little number on sale. I noted the reasonably good ratings (I am a review-reader and the reviews play a HUGE part in any purchase I make.) and I added one Kissaluvs Fitted size large to my shopping cart. It didn't hurt that Kelly's Closet offers free shipping with orders over $49 and they frequently have coupons for a free diaper with your purchase. In fact, right now you can get a free OS diaper (guaranteed value of $17+) with a $59 purchase. Have I mentioned how much I love FREE!
My package came in the mail very quickly - thank you Kelly's Closet - and I immediately set to prepping my new Kissaluvs, which, for me, means throwing it in my wetbag and washing it with my diaper load every time I wash diapers for the next few times. (How do you prep diapers? Comment below.) Once I had it ready to go, I slapped that puppy on my Little Bug and commenced Project Undercover - The Fitted.
Here's what I learned:
The Fit of this fitted - The large Kissaluvs fit the Bug reasonably well, especially since she is at the very low end of the weight range for this diaper. I like to buy big so there's plenty of room to grow. The waist has plenty of snaps, including snaps to overlap to get a nice seal. The leg gussets also fit well and did not leave marks on the Bug's chunky thighs. The Kissaluvs sports some extra fluff, probably a result of the diaper having "room to grow," but nothing too ridiculous. I wouldn't use this diaper under a pair of tights or anything!
The Performance - The first time I used this diaper, we had quite a bit of leaking. In trouble shooting this problem, I decided that several variables contributed to this first "failure." a) I had not adequately prepped the diaper. (Come on, hands up if you've been guilty of the inpatient prepper!) and b) I had not properly lanolized my wool cover. (More on this later.) After prepping the diaper and re-lanolizing the cover, I had much better success with the Kissaluvs Fitted. I still think that it is a little too "roomy" in the pee pee area for my little girl pee-er, so I add a little bit of extra stuffing until she fills out this diaper a little bit better. And for nighttime use, this little number definitely needs additional stuffing.
The Aesthetic - The Kissaluvs Fitted is a very simple diaper. It is a cream color (unbleached) with different colored exterior stitching to denote size. The Large has primary rainbow stitching. The Kissaluvs website describes the fabric as "beautifully textured fabrics to help contain even the runniest poop." I have to say that the textured fabric feels a little rough to the touch. It doesn't seem to bother The Bug though, especially since she gets to wear cashmere longies with it! (More on these later!)
Overall - The Kissluvs fitted has proven a worthy addition to the fluff stash and an easy introduction to the world of Fitteds. It definitely whetted my appetite to try other brands of Fitteds and I would probably buy another one, especially with the good sales and promos out there! Thanks again Kelly's Closet!
Buy it!! - You can buy your own Kissaluvs Fitted diaper from many diaper retailers for about $12.95.
My package came in the mail very quickly - thank you Kelly's Closet - and I immediately set to prepping my new Kissaluvs, which, for me, means throwing it in my wetbag and washing it with my diaper load every time I wash diapers for the next few times. (How do you prep diapers? Comment below.) Once I had it ready to go, I slapped that puppy on my Little Bug and commenced Project Undercover - The Fitted.
Here's what I learned:
The Fit of this fitted - The large Kissaluvs fit the Bug reasonably well, especially since she is at the very low end of the weight range for this diaper. I like to buy big so there's plenty of room to grow. The waist has plenty of snaps, including snaps to overlap to get a nice seal. The leg gussets also fit well and did not leave marks on the Bug's chunky thighs. The Kissaluvs sports some extra fluff, probably a result of the diaper having "room to grow," but nothing too ridiculous. I wouldn't use this diaper under a pair of tights or anything!
 |
| My model wasn't very willing to show off the snaps, but you can see the legs gussets. |
 |
| Fluffy bum - and yes, the tag goes on the outside. |
The Performance - The first time I used this diaper, we had quite a bit of leaking. In trouble shooting this problem, I decided that several variables contributed to this first "failure." a) I had not adequately prepped the diaper. (Come on, hands up if you've been guilty of the inpatient prepper!) and b) I had not properly lanolized my wool cover. (More on this later.) After prepping the diaper and re-lanolizing the cover, I had much better success with the Kissaluvs Fitted. I still think that it is a little too "roomy" in the pee pee area for my little girl pee-er, so I add a little bit of extra stuffing until she fills out this diaper a little bit better. And for nighttime use, this little number definitely needs additional stuffing.
The Aesthetic - The Kissaluvs Fitted is a very simple diaper. It is a cream color (unbleached) with different colored exterior stitching to denote size. The Large has primary rainbow stitching. The Kissaluvs website describes the fabric as "beautifully textured fabrics to help contain even the runniest poop." I have to say that the textured fabric feels a little rough to the touch. It doesn't seem to bother The Bug though, especially since she gets to wear cashmere longies with it! (More on these later!)
 |
| See, she seems rather content although probably wondering why she doesn't have clothes on when it's freezing! |
Overall - The Kissluvs fitted has proven a worthy addition to the fluff stash and an easy introduction to the world of Fitteds. It definitely whetted my appetite to try other brands of Fitteds and I would probably buy another one, especially with the good sales and promos out there! Thanks again Kelly's Closet!
Buy it!! - You can buy your own Kissaluvs Fitted diaper from many diaper retailers for about $12.95.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Thirsties Duo Fab Fitted - REVIEW & Giveaway!
I was going to wait on posting this until the end of the week, but I just can't wait. I hope you're as excited as I am about this event and the fun giveaways. This is my VERY FIRST giveaway on my blog. ENJOY!
******
I happened onto the world of fitteds in my search for something to put underneath wool. All of my prefolds were small because I only used them as stuffing for covers. (More on this later!) Nor was I ready to accept the challenge of the snappi! Marie at Green Pixie Baby suggested that I try a fitted and -viola!- here we are!
I chose the Ocean Blue color in a size two for my 8.5 month, 20 lb girl.
I'm sure you're all familiar with the rush to prep a diaper for use - I was chomping at the bit to get this one prepped and on the Little Bug's bum. Not to mention I had a brand new upcycled wool soaker from Forty41 that needed a test run (stay tuned for more on the soaker). I knew I wanted to test this blue beauty out with the soaker during an overnight run. I must confess that we use one disposable diaper at nighttime because I haven't found a nighttime solution with which I am totally confident. The Bug's sleep patterns are so erratic between teething and moving, I certainly don't want her to wake up because of a wet diaper. I slapped the Thirsties Fab Fitted onto the babe, slid her into her soaker, and prayed for the best.
I was restless, constantly feeling her bum to check for signs of leaks. Hello paranoid! The Bug slept great all night, as well as she normally does. No leaks. No signs of discomfort. So I call that a success. We use the diaper under wool longies during the day with equal success.
I like that the elastic around the legs seems comfortable and does not leave red marks around her legs and that there is lots of room in the waist to grow with the babe. I must admit that when Marie handed me the Thirsties Fab Fitted, I was in love with the "buttery softness" but was skeptical that the luxurious feel would last longer than the first wash. Oh, how wrong I was. This diaper repeatedly comes out of the wash as bright and soft as it went in. We haven't had any poop-age in this diaper, so I can't report on staining issues.
The Fab Fitted fits my 20 lb babe quite nicely on the second snap setting with plenty of room to grow across the belly.
Fits snugly across the backside, not to mention to cute factor!
The following information is taken from the Thirsties website:
Features:
Size one:
6-18 lbs (3-8 kg)
0-9 months
Size two:
18-40 lbs (8-18 kg)
9-36 months
Expertly crafted from stretchy, buttery soft textiles with a stay-dry liner, these super cute fitted diapers offer superior wetness protection for your baby's delicate skin.
Care & Content:
Wash on hot with half the recommended amount additive-free detergent. It is very important to use residue free detergent. Ask us if you need brand recommendations. No fabric softeners, no bleach. Dry on low or hang to dry.
Dyed with low-impact dyes
Inner layers: 100% polyester
Outer layer: 15% polyester, 85% cotton
Made in USA
So, in a nutshell, would I buy the Thirsties Fab Fitted again? Absolutely!! I would and I have. You can too.
Buy it: You can buy the Thirsties Fab Fitted from many diaper retailers including Green Pixie Baby for about $17
Win it: Marie, owner of Green Pixie Baby, generously donated a Thirsties Duo Fab Fitted (white, size two) to give away to one lucky reader. Please complete form below.
The giveaway will close at 11:59 pm on Thursday, March 31. Please use the Google Form to enter. Comments on this post are appreciated, but not counted as entries. You can view all entries to this giveaway on the spreadsheet. This may be useful for you to view how many entries there are and to double check if you've already entered.
******
I happened onto the world of fitteds in my search for something to put underneath wool. All of my prefolds were small because I only used them as stuffing for covers. (More on this later!) Nor was I ready to accept the challenge of the snappi! Marie at Green Pixie Baby suggested that I try a fitted and -viola!- here we are!
I chose the Ocean Blue color in a size two for my 8.5 month, 20 lb girl.
I'm sure you're all familiar with the rush to prep a diaper for use - I was chomping at the bit to get this one prepped and on the Little Bug's bum. Not to mention I had a brand new upcycled wool soaker from Forty41 that needed a test run (stay tuned for more on the soaker). I knew I wanted to test this blue beauty out with the soaker during an overnight run. I must confess that we use one disposable diaper at nighttime because I haven't found a nighttime solution with which I am totally confident. The Bug's sleep patterns are so erratic between teething and moving, I certainly don't want her to wake up because of a wet diaper. I slapped the Thirsties Fab Fitted onto the babe, slid her into her soaker, and prayed for the best.
I was restless, constantly feeling her bum to check for signs of leaks. Hello paranoid! The Bug slept great all night, as well as she normally does. No leaks. No signs of discomfort. So I call that a success. We use the diaper under wool longies during the day with equal success.
I like that the elastic around the legs seems comfortable and does not leave red marks around her legs and that there is lots of room in the waist to grow with the babe. I must admit that when Marie handed me the Thirsties Fab Fitted, I was in love with the "buttery softness" but was skeptical that the luxurious feel would last longer than the first wash. Oh, how wrong I was. This diaper repeatedly comes out of the wash as bright and soft as it went in. We haven't had any poop-age in this diaper, so I can't report on staining issues.
The Fab Fitted fits my 20 lb babe quite nicely on the second snap setting with plenty of room to grow across the belly.
Fits snugly across the backside, not to mention to cute factor!
The following information is taken from the Thirsties website:
Features:
- Irresistibly soft in a variety of fun colors
- Tunnel design allows for stuffing additional absorbency when needed, better washing and quicker drying
- Gentle elastic around the legs and waist provide superb protection against leaks
- Pair with Thirsties® Diaper Cover or Duo Wrap for truly leakproof system
- Snap or Aplix hook-and-loop closures
- Easy to use, even for the occasional caretaker
- Grows with your baby so you only need two sizes from birth to potty!
Size one:
6-18 lbs (3-8 kg)
0-9 months
Size two:
18-40 lbs (8-18 kg)
9-36 months
Expertly crafted from stretchy, buttery soft textiles with a stay-dry liner, these super cute fitted diapers offer superior wetness protection for your baby's delicate skin.
Care & Content:
Wash on hot with half the recommended amount additive-free detergent. It is very important to use residue free detergent. Ask us if you need brand recommendations. No fabric softeners, no bleach. Dry on low or hang to dry.
Dyed with low-impact dyes
Inner layers: 100% polyester
Outer layer: 15% polyester, 85% cotton
Made in USA
So, in a nutshell, would I buy the Thirsties Fab Fitted again? Absolutely!! I would and I have. You can too.
Buy it: You can buy the Thirsties Fab Fitted from many diaper retailers including Green Pixie Baby for about $17
Win it: Marie, owner of Green Pixie Baby, generously donated a Thirsties Duo Fab Fitted (white, size two) to give away to one lucky reader. Please complete form below.
The giveaway will close at 11:59 pm on Thursday, March 31. Please use the Google Form to enter. Comments on this post are appreciated, but not counted as entries. You can view all entries to this giveaway on the spreadsheet. This may be useful for you to view how many entries there are and to double check if you've already entered.
Open to U.S. residents only. Winner will be chosen by random.org. The winner will be announced on the blog as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. The opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own. I was not paid, coerced or bribed to write a glowing review.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Out Like a Lamb - Wool Event on SEBG
Many of you know about my love of wool and if you don't, you will by the end of Undercover Month! My fellow mama blogger and friend Lindsey at So Easy Being Green is gearing up for an AMAZING wool extravaganza. I'm really looking forward to reading all about her experiences with and information about the wonderful world of wool. She's offering extra entries prior to the beginning of the event. So go check out her blog now to get your entries in.
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