(A Work In Progress)

“When God births a baby, He births a Mother and a Father, too.  Listen to the wisdom that is birthed in your heart.  You will have wisdom, birthed there, for your baby.”

~Maureen Jackson ~ mother of 3

“My advice? To take ANY and ALL advice (including this) with a grain of  proverbial salt.  The baby/child rearing books were not written to make you feel as though you know best, since then you wouldn't need to buy them! And all the well intentioned advice from friends and relatives, and those who think they know it all about parenting, can be dangerous to your sleep deprived and already self-doubting ego. Remember that you know your child better than anyone else. Trust your inner voice, and don't let anything sway you away from thinking that you are an EXCELLENT parent!”

~Anke, mother of 1, born in 2001

*You are in charge of your care, not your doctor.  You are allowed to fire him/her if you don't agree with the care you are getting.  The best decision I made was switching doctors half way through the pregnancy.

*Find and get in touch with a lactation consultant before you have your baby.  They can be available to handle any problems with nursing in the first few days.  Surround yourself with pro-breast feeding everything - La Leche League meetings, literature and support of friends who nursed successfully.  DO NOT listen to non-supporters or negative feedback.  You know what's best for your baby.

*The difference between having an epidural with my first baby and not having any medication was incredible.  I recovered much faster and did not have the problems with my back that I did the first time.  I am not known for my high tolerance of pain, but I was able to make it.  You can too. Don't give up.  It is so worth having natural childbirth!!!

~Tina, mother of 2, born in 2001 & 1996