Hello everyone!
So I have some goods to tell you! I have found a doctor's office with a midwife in Chesapeake, VA.! The office advised me that I would also see the physician throughout my pregnancy as well just to get acquainted with the doctor if I would require additional medical interventions. I am comfortable with that arrangement, just didn't want to go in the hospital like I was having a medical emergency. I will be going to The Group for Women. My first visit is next month, so I will let you know how things turn out.
This week there was a feature blog article from WeatherAnchorMama.com. Your insurance may have the Affordable Care Act on your policy, which entitles you to FREE breast pump!!! Yes Its free. I called my insurance company immediately the next morning and found out I was covered!! I would be able to go to any lactation office of medical supply office and purchase it for free. They also said, if I wanted to rent one from the hospital (because it is a hospital grade pump) it would also be free. Additionally, if I have already purchased one, I could send in a copy of my POP (proof of purchase) and get a full refund. Though this process could take 8 to 10 weeks, that is still good to know. You can also check the Pumping Essentials and they can also help you with the process. For the full article/blog CLICK HERE. You are awarded one free breast pump a year per pregnancy.
Next week, I really want to talk about when the right time for nesting.
See you soon!!
Sabrina
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Back From Vacation!!
Hello everyone!!
I know it has been awhile, but me, my twin sis, and a very dear friend took a weekend cruise to Nowhere!! That just means we didn't dock anywhere, we sailed to Florida back to Norfolk, VA. It was a lot of fun, and I can't wait to do it again.
This week, I am going to talk about keeping a healthy diet while on vacation, and........cheating on your diet after vacation lol. Like Planet Fitness, this is a no judging zone (I hope).
Going on the cruise, I was a little nervous. No alcohol, no cheese, no seafood; I just though this was going to be tough. My sister and our friend were getting the party started ordering drinks on the deck and I was ordering ginger ale and cranberry juice. One tip is to ask the bartender to make your non-alcoholic beverage LOOK alcoholic. I had an umbrella, pineapple, and cherries added to my cup to feel included in the party. Tip two, get up and dance, you will never see these people again anyway, so get your boogie on lol.
Now the important part: FOOD!!!
The awesome part of this carnival cruise, was the burrito line. Yummy! For breakfast, I got hash browns, lettuce, tomatoes, pico de gallo, hot sauce, and a wheat tortilla. For lunch, rice, black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, pico de gallo, hot sauce, and a jalapeno tortilla wrap, extra yummy!!
For dinner, we ate in the restaurant. They had minestrone soup as appetizer. It was good!! The dinner was even better, they had an Indian Vegetarian dish. It had spicy chick peas, rice, potatoes, and salsa and pita chips.
Unfortunately, my sister and I accidentally switched camera when she went back to Nashville, so this is the only pic that I have lol. The trip was great, they even had zero proof beer available lol.
When we came back from the cruise, it was just in time for a memorial weekend BBQ. This is probably the hardest time to stick to your diet. There was burgers, hot dogs, Mac N' Cheese, potato salad, ribs, BBQ chicken, steak, and everything else I miss eating. My mother-in-law did buy me and my sis some veggie burgers for the grill that were yummy, and some vegetarian baked beans (there is no pork added, just sugar and spices). So I had a burger, baked beans, cucumber salad, corn on the cob, and.....this is when the cheating began. I had potato salad forgetting that mayo is used. I would have skipped it, but I really wasn't thinking. The BBQ was a hit, and I wish my sis didn't have to go back to TN, but we had a great time.
Ok, ok, this is when the cheating began. I have had a craving for Popeye's biscuits. I have probably eaten like 12 within 2 weeks. They are so good and buttery. Sometimes I have it with honey, or with vegan sausage patty (MorningStar maple). Me and my fiancee went to the beach, and stopped to get biscuits before we left. Ahhhhh, it is safe to say I have an addiction lol. But I am going to get back on track I promise; this is just a minor set back. Work starts back on Friday, so I will be confined to my house lol.
On my next post, I have some good news and some more good news so check back later today :-)
I know it has been awhile, but me, my twin sis, and a very dear friend took a weekend cruise to Nowhere!! That just means we didn't dock anywhere, we sailed to Florida back to Norfolk, VA. It was a lot of fun, and I can't wait to do it again.
This week, I am going to talk about keeping a healthy diet while on vacation, and........cheating on your diet after vacation lol. Like Planet Fitness, this is a no judging zone (I hope).
Going on the cruise, I was a little nervous. No alcohol, no cheese, no seafood; I just though this was going to be tough. My sister and our friend were getting the party started ordering drinks on the deck and I was ordering ginger ale and cranberry juice. One tip is to ask the bartender to make your non-alcoholic beverage LOOK alcoholic. I had an umbrella, pineapple, and cherries added to my cup to feel included in the party. Tip two, get up and dance, you will never see these people again anyway, so get your boogie on lol.Now the important part: FOOD!!!
The awesome part of this carnival cruise, was the burrito line. Yummy! For breakfast, I got hash browns, lettuce, tomatoes, pico de gallo, hot sauce, and a wheat tortilla. For lunch, rice, black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, pico de gallo, hot sauce, and a jalapeno tortilla wrap, extra yummy!!
For dinner, we ate in the restaurant. They had minestrone soup as appetizer. It was good!! The dinner was even better, they had an Indian Vegetarian dish. It had spicy chick peas, rice, potatoes, and salsa and pita chips.
Unfortunately, my sister and I accidentally switched camera when she went back to Nashville, so this is the only pic that I have lol. The trip was great, they even had zero proof beer available lol.
When we came back from the cruise, it was just in time for a memorial weekend BBQ. This is probably the hardest time to stick to your diet. There was burgers, hot dogs, Mac N' Cheese, potato salad, ribs, BBQ chicken, steak, and everything else I miss eating. My mother-in-law did buy me and my sis some veggie burgers for the grill that were yummy, and some vegetarian baked beans (there is no pork added, just sugar and spices). So I had a burger, baked beans, cucumber salad, corn on the cob, and.....this is when the cheating began. I had potato salad forgetting that mayo is used. I would have skipped it, but I really wasn't thinking. The BBQ was a hit, and I wish my sis didn't have to go back to TN, but we had a great time.
Ok, ok, this is when the cheating began. I have had a craving for Popeye's biscuits. I have probably eaten like 12 within 2 weeks. They are so good and buttery. Sometimes I have it with honey, or with vegan sausage patty (MorningStar maple). Me and my fiancee went to the beach, and stopped to get biscuits before we left. Ahhhhh, it is safe to say I have an addiction lol. But I am going to get back on track I promise; this is just a minor set back. Work starts back on Friday, so I will be confined to my house lol.
On my next post, I have some good news and some more good news so check back later today :-)
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Having a Bad Day :-(
Hello everyone.
As you probably tell from the title, I am not having a good day today. I am trying to find a new doctor, but I am not finding what I need in Virginia Beach. My insurance representative recommended that I try the Dupaul Medical Center, but when I called, they are not accepting anymore patients with due dates before December :-( So my dreams of having a Midwife, may have to end before it even started.
I know many people may not see a big deal with having a baby with an OB/GYN, but let me give you some history on me. I have never been hospitalized before, so the idea of going to the hospital makes me feel like something is wrong or will go wrong. Having a baby is not a medical condition people, it is something that women all over the world have been doing for hundreds of years. To pay for a Midwife, out of pocket, its about $600 to $1000. What the heck is insurance for, if I would have to come out of pocket for medical care. If I want a Douala, that will be about an extra $300 to $500. What is a girl to do?
I have already tried my best fake cry to my fiance, but he is not budging with the funds, so back to plan B: find an office with less doctors. This is a lot harder than it looks! I have had a lot of people refer me to Dr. Grey in Chesapeake, VA., but there is about 6 doctors in that practice. The odds of him being available at my birth is...duh.. 1:6. Do I go with those odds? I found an office in Virginia Beach that has a Midwife on staff, but I have to fill out a crap load of medical history forms and wait to see if they will accept me already at 15 weeks and 2 day!!! Ahhhhhh!!!!
My anxiety is growing by the minute. My fiance is pretty laid back, and keeps telling me to relax, but how can I relax when I technically do not have someone to help me bring a human life into this world. ok, ok I guess that may seem dramatic, but I am a first time mom, and I am allowed to be dramatic!
So, whats a girl to do, as the weeks begin to creep on me and I am feeling backed in a corner? Well, Operation Crazy Mon To Be is in effect, and I can no longer be the nice girl anymore. This is about the well being of my child, so (excuse the phonetics) imma have to get gully on some folks!!
My goal is to find one before my weekend cruise with my twin sis and childhood friend. The hunt is on, and no one is safe lol!!
Wish me luck!
Sabrina
As you probably tell from the title, I am not having a good day today. I am trying to find a new doctor, but I am not finding what I need in Virginia Beach. My insurance representative recommended that I try the Dupaul Medical Center, but when I called, they are not accepting anymore patients with due dates before December :-( So my dreams of having a Midwife, may have to end before it even started.
I know many people may not see a big deal with having a baby with an OB/GYN, but let me give you some history on me. I have never been hospitalized before, so the idea of going to the hospital makes me feel like something is wrong or will go wrong. Having a baby is not a medical condition people, it is something that women all over the world have been doing for hundreds of years. To pay for a Midwife, out of pocket, its about $600 to $1000. What the heck is insurance for, if I would have to come out of pocket for medical care. If I want a Douala, that will be about an extra $300 to $500. What is a girl to do?
I have already tried my best fake cry to my fiance, but he is not budging with the funds, so back to plan B: find an office with less doctors. This is a lot harder than it looks! I have had a lot of people refer me to Dr. Grey in Chesapeake, VA., but there is about 6 doctors in that practice. The odds of him being available at my birth is...duh.. 1:6. Do I go with those odds? I found an office in Virginia Beach that has a Midwife on staff, but I have to fill out a crap load of medical history forms and wait to see if they will accept me already at 15 weeks and 2 day!!! Ahhhhhh!!!!
My anxiety is growing by the minute. My fiance is pretty laid back, and keeps telling me to relax, but how can I relax when I technically do not have someone to help me bring a human life into this world. ok, ok I guess that may seem dramatic, but I am a first time mom, and I am allowed to be dramatic!
So, whats a girl to do, as the weeks begin to creep on me and I am feeling backed in a corner? Well, Operation Crazy Mon To Be is in effect, and I can no longer be the nice girl anymore. This is about the well being of my child, so (excuse the phonetics) imma have to get gully on some folks!!
My goal is to find one before my weekend cruise with my twin sis and childhood friend. The hunt is on, and no one is safe lol!!
Wish me luck!
Sabrina
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
My First OB/GYN Experience.......
Hello Everyone!!
Well Tuesday, I had my first OB/GYN experience. When I normally go for my annual, I just see a nurse (we will call her "Nurse A"). Nurse A is amazing! we talk in her office every visit to catch up on anything I am experiencing, how I am with birth control, etc. Then we do my exam. She is so personable, I have recommended her to all my co-workers at work. Tuesday, I was really nervous.My Fiance was at his first appointment, so I wanted him to feel comfortable. First, the doctor I was scheduled to see had not arrived, so I was told I would be meeting with someone else. I was ok with that because there are four doctors in the practice I will have to meet because one of them will be on call to deliver my baby. So, a nurse checks my vitals (blood pressure, weight, urine.). Everything was better than my last visit, so I knew vegan was the right choice for me. Any who, we wait for the doctor (whom we will call "Doctor BW"). Doctor BW is an African American with impeccable credentials. She enters the room and introduces herself. Below are the events lol:
Doctor BW: Are you here for a physical exam?
Me: No. I was given a drap because I had a dress on.
Doctor BW: Oh I was going to say, I was a little confused. Ok, lay back and lets listen to the heart.
Static noise......................................................................heart beat-heat beat (only 2 beats).
Doctor BW: Sounds good........ok have a good afternoon.
Me: Well I have a few questions.....
Doctor BW: ok?
Me: Is Soy Milk Ok, I heard some bad things online?
Doctor BW: (scuffss) Yes it is fine.
Me: Can I eat peanut butter, someone told it was bad for me?
Doctor BW: No, (scuffs) you can eat it.
My handsome Fiance: Can she run in her work out? (my fiance is a strength and condition coach)
Doctor BW: Did you run before you were pregnant?
Both: Yes!
Doctor BW: (surprise, and disbelief face). Well, that means you can run, but let me remind you, that you can not start a new regime now that you are pregnant.
*Please note, that I run and work out on a daily basis, before I was pregnant. Ask anyone who knows me*
Me: Ok I guess that is it.
Doctor BW: ok, take this paper to the front. (door closes).
Talk about rude! I understand that you may have delivered a 100 babies, but this is my first so so some interest. She never asked me what my birthing plan was, how I was feeling. When I told her I have been getting headaches, she just replied with "ok." What kind of doctor doesn't want to get to know her patients. I have full coverage health insurance, I am at all my appointment on time, what is the deal. After venting to my older sisters, I was encouraged to contact the office manager and just request not to have her AT ALL. When I asked for the office manager, she was unavailable, so I left a pleasant message stating: Hello, my name Is Sabrina and I am a patient. I would really appreciate if you could call me at you earliest convenience. My number is ########. Again, my number is ####. I look forward too hearing from you. Thank you :-)
I HAVE YET TO RECEIVE A CALL!! So I have made the executive decsion, with my fiance's green light, to find another medical office. SO if anyone knows any great OB/GYN in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake area please let me know! I would prefer there to be only 2 doctors in the practice and possibly a midwife.
Please let me know your horror stories.
Talk to you soon :-)
Sabrina
Well Tuesday, I had my first OB/GYN experience. When I normally go for my annual, I just see a nurse (we will call her "Nurse A"). Nurse A is amazing! we talk in her office every visit to catch up on anything I am experiencing, how I am with birth control, etc. Then we do my exam. She is so personable, I have recommended her to all my co-workers at work. Tuesday, I was really nervous.My Fiance was at his first appointment, so I wanted him to feel comfortable. First, the doctor I was scheduled to see had not arrived, so I was told I would be meeting with someone else. I was ok with that because there are four doctors in the practice I will have to meet because one of them will be on call to deliver my baby. So, a nurse checks my vitals (blood pressure, weight, urine.). Everything was better than my last visit, so I knew vegan was the right choice for me. Any who, we wait for the doctor (whom we will call "Doctor BW"). Doctor BW is an African American with impeccable credentials. She enters the room and introduces herself. Below are the events lol:
Doctor BW: Are you here for a physical exam?
Me: No. I was given a drap because I had a dress on.
Doctor BW: Oh I was going to say, I was a little confused. Ok, lay back and lets listen to the heart.
Static noise......................................................................heart beat-heat beat (only 2 beats).
Doctor BW: Sounds good........ok have a good afternoon.
Me: Well I have a few questions.....
Doctor BW: ok?
Me: Is Soy Milk Ok, I heard some bad things online?
Doctor BW: (scuffss) Yes it is fine.
Me: Can I eat peanut butter, someone told it was bad for me?
Doctor BW: No, (scuffs) you can eat it.
My handsome Fiance: Can she run in her work out? (my fiance is a strength and condition coach)
Doctor BW: Did you run before you were pregnant?
Both: Yes!
Doctor BW: (surprise, and disbelief face). Well, that means you can run, but let me remind you, that you can not start a new regime now that you are pregnant.
*Please note, that I run and work out on a daily basis, before I was pregnant. Ask anyone who knows me*
Me: Ok I guess that is it.
Doctor BW: ok, take this paper to the front. (door closes).
Talk about rude! I understand that you may have delivered a 100 babies, but this is my first so so some interest. She never asked me what my birthing plan was, how I was feeling. When I told her I have been getting headaches, she just replied with "ok." What kind of doctor doesn't want to get to know her patients. I have full coverage health insurance, I am at all my appointment on time, what is the deal. After venting to my older sisters, I was encouraged to contact the office manager and just request not to have her AT ALL. When I asked for the office manager, she was unavailable, so I left a pleasant message stating: Hello, my name Is Sabrina and I am a patient. I would really appreciate if you could call me at you earliest convenience. My number is ########. Again, my number is ####. I look forward too hearing from you. Thank you :-)
I HAVE YET TO RECEIVE A CALL!! So I have made the executive decsion, with my fiance's green light, to find another medical office. SO if anyone knows any great OB/GYN in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake area please let me know! I would prefer there to be only 2 doctors in the practice and possibly a midwife.
Please let me know your horror stories.
Talk to you soon :-)
Sabrina
Monday, May 13, 2013
Food Favs and New Editions
Hey Everyone!
Here are some items I like to buy from the grocery store. I really like Harris Teeter; they have vegan and organic foods that you can count on. Additionally, they have the best sales on produce. One week, they had buy one get on free strawberries. These alternatives don't even feel like you are giving up food you love. the sour cream is great, the cheese melts perfectly, and those spicy hot dogs are AMAZING!!
I also made my personal favorite dinner tonight!! Meatless meatball sub!! I heat the "meatballs" and simmer them in the marinara sauce for 25 minutes. I warm a hot dog, ok 2 hot dog buns (don't judge, eating for 2 now), and top with vegan lactose free cheese. Yummy!
My twin sis, who is a vegetarian, loves making sloppy joes using meatless crumbles. Both Morning Star and Boca have meatless crumbles. You can normally find vegan alternatives at any grocery store, mostly in thee breakfast isle. I don't really know why they consider it breakfast food, but Food Lion and Walmart both sell Morning Star and Boca products. Don't be shy, give them a try. Another great company is SmartBalance. They sell cold cut alternatives like slice turkey, ham, Bologna, even bacon and pepperoni. Now, I never liked bologna so I haven't tried that; to me you can never substitute bacon, so I haven't tried that, and I will try the pepperoni this month and let you know. Amy's Kitchen is also very good. If you work in an office and need some healthy microwave vegan and/or vegetarian meals, this is the one to buy. There is vegetable pot pies, Mexican bowls, and even some gluten free items. My favorite is the lentil soup, no chicken noodle soup, and the black bean soup. These are my splurge items, because a can of soup is sometimes almost $3. These are easy to pack in your lunch box, without packing on extra pounds in the office.
I am also trying some new products. My refrigerator looks sad, so I decided to replace the things that were missing with vegan replacements. I purchased cream cheese, butter made from soy, and almond milk. Now I have never been that much of a milk drinker, but I do like my occasional bowl of cereal. The butter was hard to find. I was at the grocery store just reading the ingredients for butter for a good 20 minutes lol, until I found the SmartBalance without buttermilk, Whey, or skim milk.
In the coming weeks, I will post some of my fiance's favorite vegan substitutes (and he is a meat eater), you will be pleasantly surprised :-) I will also share some of my homemade recipes that are easy, delicious and take about 30 minutes to make.
Please feel free to post your favorite vegan and vegetarian recipes, I like trying new things (especially dessert).
P.S. I learned the hard way, the baby does not like tofu.
I also made my personal favorite dinner tonight!! Meatless meatball sub!! I heat the "meatballs" and simmer them in the marinara sauce for 25 minutes. I warm a hot dog, ok 2 hot dog buns (don't judge, eating for 2 now), and top with vegan lactose free cheese. Yummy!My twin sis, who is a vegetarian, loves making sloppy joes using meatless crumbles. Both Morning Star and Boca have meatless crumbles. You can normally find vegan alternatives at any grocery store, mostly in thee breakfast isle. I don't really know why they consider it breakfast food, but Food Lion and Walmart both sell Morning Star and Boca products. Don't be shy, give them a try. Another great company is SmartBalance. They sell cold cut alternatives like slice turkey, ham, Bologna, even bacon and pepperoni. Now, I never liked bologna so I haven't tried that; to me you can never substitute bacon, so I haven't tried that, and I will try the pepperoni this month and let you know. Amy's Kitchen is also very good. If you work in an office and need some healthy microwave vegan and/or vegetarian meals, this is the one to buy. There is vegetable pot pies, Mexican bowls, and even some gluten free items. My favorite is the lentil soup, no chicken noodle soup, and the black bean soup. These are my splurge items, because a can of soup is sometimes almost $3. These are easy to pack in your lunch box, without packing on extra pounds in the office.
I am also trying some new products. My refrigerator looks sad, so I decided to replace the things that were missing with vegan replacements. I purchased cream cheese, butter made from soy, and almond milk. Now I have never been that much of a milk drinker, but I do like my occasional bowl of cereal. The butter was hard to find. I was at the grocery store just reading the ingredients for butter for a good 20 minutes lol, until I found the SmartBalance without buttermilk, Whey, or skim milk. In the coming weeks, I will post some of my fiance's favorite vegan substitutes (and he is a meat eater), you will be pleasantly surprised :-) I will also share some of my homemade recipes that are easy, delicious and take about 30 minutes to make.
Please feel free to post your favorite vegan and vegetarian recipes, I like trying new things (especially dessert).
P.S. I learned the hard way, the baby does not like tofu.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Crazy Dreams
So my twin sis suggested that I let you guys know about some dreams that I have had. Now, I haven't had that many dreams, but the ones I do have are pretty out there lol.
Dream #1
It is my sister's wedding, and I am 9 months pregnant. As people go to go dance, they leave their have filled beer bottles everywhere. The whole reception I am drinking bottle beer all over the reception hall, until someone spots me. I SCREAM, Ahhhhhhh, and take of running like a crazy person burping and hiccuping all the way back to my hotel room lol.
People told me that I wouldn't think about alcohol while pregnant, but I think about it everyday. I think about beer, wine, margaritas, and all the above. Dont worry, I haven't drank anything, but I do miss my Friday night Smokey Bones with my Fiance. Now all I can enjoy is Somkey Bones cornbread and a giner-ale ;-(
Dream#2
It kind of a fantasy dream. Don't worry its not what you think. Now, I have been a vegetarian for maybe 4 years now, so I have not had any chicken, beef, or pork during that time. I have a dream where I am sitting at a picnic table, with airbrush clouds, and beautiful sunshine. I am wearing a yellow dress, and birds are chirping behind me. As I lift my hands to my face, it is the greasiest, juiciest, crispiest piece of fried chicken I begin to devour. The oil drips down my hand, and I lick all my fingers. The funny part is I am in one of those 360 cameras that circle me over and over as I am eating this fried chicken. Maybe that means I am going to have a boy, lol who knows.
I have read somewhere, sorry I don't remember where, that you get cravings for things that you may not even like; even vegetarian start to crave things they haven't had in a year.
I would like to hear you dream stories. I am still early in my pregnancy, so there may be more to come.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Sabrina
Dream #1
It is my sister's wedding, and I am 9 months pregnant. As people go to go dance, they leave their have filled beer bottles everywhere. The whole reception I am drinking bottle beer all over the reception hall, until someone spots me. I SCREAM, Ahhhhhhh, and take of running like a crazy person burping and hiccuping all the way back to my hotel room lol.
People told me that I wouldn't think about alcohol while pregnant, but I think about it everyday. I think about beer, wine, margaritas, and all the above. Dont worry, I haven't drank anything, but I do miss my Friday night Smokey Bones with my Fiance. Now all I can enjoy is Somkey Bones cornbread and a giner-ale ;-(
Dream#2
It kind of a fantasy dream. Don't worry its not what you think. Now, I have been a vegetarian for maybe 4 years now, so I have not had any chicken, beef, or pork during that time. I have a dream where I am sitting at a picnic table, with airbrush clouds, and beautiful sunshine. I am wearing a yellow dress, and birds are chirping behind me. As I lift my hands to my face, it is the greasiest, juiciest, crispiest piece of fried chicken I begin to devour. The oil drips down my hand, and I lick all my fingers. The funny part is I am in one of those 360 cameras that circle me over and over as I am eating this fried chicken. Maybe that means I am going to have a boy, lol who knows.
I have read somewhere, sorry I don't remember where, that you get cravings for things that you may not even like; even vegetarian start to crave things they haven't had in a year.
I would like to hear you dream stories. I am still early in my pregnancy, so there may be more to come.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Sabrina
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Good Movies to watch and books
Just a suggestion to my readers. Tell me what you think :-)
If you you are interested in information on birthing plans and healthy living
The Business of Being Born
2008
84 minutes
Director Abby Epstein's controversial documentary takes a hard look at America's maternity care system, juxtaposing hospital deliveries against the growing popularity of at-home, natural childbirths that some expectant parents are opting for. Former talk show host Ricki Lake was inspired to produce this compelling exposé after a dissatisfying birthing experience with her first child left her with many unanswered questions.
If you you are interested in information on birthing plans and healthy living
The Business of Being Born
2008
84 minutes
Director Abby Epstein's controversial documentary takes a hard look at America's maternity care system, juxtaposing hospital deliveries against the growing popularity of at-home, natural childbirths that some expectant parents are opting for. Former talk show host Ricki Lake was inspired to produce this compelling exposé after a dissatisfying birthing experience with her first child left her with many unanswered questions.
- 2011
4 episodes
Executive Producer Ricki Lake and Filmmaker Abby Epstein
follow their landmark documentary, The Business of Being Born, with an all-new,
4 part series that continues their provocative and entertaining exploration of
the modern maternity care system.
2010
77 minutes
In this documentary, three meat- and cheese-loving New Yorkers
agree to adopt a vegan diet for six weeks. Lured with true tales of weight lost
and health regained, they begin to uncover the hidden sides of animal
agriculture.
Books
What to Expect When You're Expecting, 4th Edition
By: Heidi Murkoff & Sharon Mazel
Overflowing with tips, helpful hints, and humor (a pregnant woman's best
friend), this new edition is more accessible and easier to use than ever before.
It's everything parents-to-be have come to expect from What to Expect...
only better.
The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals
By: Micheal Pollen
A national bestseller that has changed the way readers view the ecology of
eating, this revolutionary book by award winner Michael Pollan asks the
seemingly simple question: What should we have for dinner? Tracing from source
to table each of the food chains that sustain us -- whether industrial or
organic, alternative or processed -- he develops a portrait of the American way
of eating.
Tips For Nausea and/or Vomiting
I don't know about you, but morning sickness last ALL DAY LONG!! Especially when you work in an office with 300 employees in the building (the smells you smell are not fun). Here are some things I liked to use:
1. I always eat breakfast before going to work.
Trust me, I know you are sleepy, and you don't feel like cooking anything. So I had a warm cinnamon raisin English muffin, a small serving of fruit and a glass of water.
2. I know,I know, 2 hours later the nausea returns; so have a protein shake.
I love the BOOST high protein shakes. I usually took my prenatal vitamin with the protein shake. This shake has calcium, iron, protein (of course), and other good stuff for you and the baby.
3. I really enjoyed tomato based products.
Tomato soup, salsa, and even my favorite a tomato sandwich with lettuce and mustard (don't knock it till you try it).
Majority of the time, for me at least, feeling nauseous means that I needed something.
4. Keep Hydrated.
I have been told that you should drink 64 oz of water a day when your pregnant. That may seem like a lot, but compared to how many times you use the bathroom, its nothing. My insurance company gave me a free water bottle to help me measure my intake, so ask around for some free gifts!
5. Eating 5 times a day is healthy and helpful!
Now, I am not taking 5 full meals ladies, I mean meals and snacks. I personally like granola, dry cereal (Kellogg's Raisin Brain Crunch is the bomb diggity), dried and frozen fruit, and celery will help keep food down.
6. Slurpee please!!
OK, so I know this isn't exactly healthy, but I love Slurpee's, icy drinks, and lime-aids( from sonics 2 to 4). I sometimes have gotten 3 in one day (don't judge). Sometimes its nice to splurge, and get something unhealthy, but just don't make it a habit.
7. Eating cold food.
For me, I would make something that I know I love, but once it came off the stove, I instantly could eat because the smell. So try foods that you have to eat cold like vegan ham sandwich and crackers, bowl of cereal, or a garden salad. These meals are healthy and filling without any guilt.
Now, I have a challenge for you. What are your secrets to help with nausea and/or vomiting? I would love to know!
Have a great day :-)
Sabrina
1. I always eat breakfast before going to work.
Trust me, I know you are sleepy, and you don't feel like cooking anything. So I had a warm cinnamon raisin English muffin, a small serving of fruit and a glass of water.
2. I know,I know, 2 hours later the nausea returns; so have a protein shake.
I love the BOOST high protein shakes. I usually took my prenatal vitamin with the protein shake. This shake has calcium, iron, protein (of course), and other good stuff for you and the baby.
3. I really enjoyed tomato based products.
Tomato soup, salsa, and even my favorite a tomato sandwich with lettuce and mustard (don't knock it till you try it).
Majority of the time, for me at least, feeling nauseous means that I needed something.
4. Keep Hydrated.
I have been told that you should drink 64 oz of water a day when your pregnant. That may seem like a lot, but compared to how many times you use the bathroom, its nothing. My insurance company gave me a free water bottle to help me measure my intake, so ask around for some free gifts!
5. Eating 5 times a day is healthy and helpful!
Now, I am not taking 5 full meals ladies, I mean meals and snacks. I personally like granola, dry cereal (Kellogg's Raisin Brain Crunch is the bomb diggity), dried and frozen fruit, and celery will help keep food down.
6. Slurpee please!!
OK, so I know this isn't exactly healthy, but I love Slurpee's, icy drinks, and lime-aids( from sonics 2 to 4). I sometimes have gotten 3 in one day (don't judge). Sometimes its nice to splurge, and get something unhealthy, but just don't make it a habit.
7. Eating cold food.
For me, I would make something that I know I love, but once it came off the stove, I instantly could eat because the smell. So try foods that you have to eat cold like vegan ham sandwich and crackers, bowl of cereal, or a garden salad. These meals are healthy and filling without any guilt.
Now, I have a challenge for you. What are your secrets to help with nausea and/or vomiting? I would love to know!
Have a great day :-)
Sabrina
13 Weeks :-)
Accoring to the "What to expect when expecting" book by Murkoff and Mazel, at 13 weeks the fetus is the size of a peach and my uterus is the size of a grapefruit. I dont know about you, but I may rethink eating those fruits again, but it is nice knowing what the size is :-)
If you don't already notice, I am a science geek, and I love knowing the facts, so you may see me source some books and websites throughout the blog. Don't worry, I wont be blogging every 5 seconds, but for now, I do want to get everyone caught up :-)
See you soon!
I'm Pregnant!!
Hello Everyone!!
Hello, My name is Sabrina and I am having my first child. Today, I am officially 14 weeks! Yes, I am scared out of my mind!! Growing a human being is not as easy as it looks. For the first 3 months, I was nauseous ALL DAY LONG!! I can smell things from miles away, and I have to use the bathroom every 2 hours. I am actually waiting for the pregnancy to start being fun :-/ But enough about that, lets talk about what's coming up!!
I am clinical obese, you can say, so I have made a decision to be healthy for my pregnancy. Ok, ok, I will tell you how much I weigh, but please promise me you won't tell ANYONE!! Promise, Promise! Before finding out I was pregnant, I was..... 209lb (shhhhhh). standing at 5'4" tall I know that is not healthy, but trust me I used to be heavier. 3 years ago my sister and I decided to become Lacto-Ovo Vegetarians. For those of you who don't know what that is, it meas that we will eat dairy and eggs, but no meat. I ended up loosing over 65 lb and have kept it off. I started to work out 4 times a week, and I have never been healthier. How many of you can say you can run 2 miles straight? Didn't think so lol. I started to eat fish again, because the doctor said that my iron was low, and I didn't like taking the vitamins. Last week, I decided that I would like to transition to full on vegan. I know, its very scary, but I want to give my baby a fighting chance. With weight can come complications, such as, gestational diabetes and high blood pressure; Those were scary enough complications for me to want to make a change. According to "What to Expect When Expecting" by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel (and a whole bunch of other names), overweight women are recommended to gain 15-20 pounds during their pregnancy (Pp.51). Considering my my older sister gained on her pregnancy, that is almost half of what she gained. So I thought to myself, "Sabrina, what can you do that is healthy, but you can still maintain a healthy weight for you and your baby?" BECOME A VEGAN, DUH!! Some may say, this is a drastic measure, but I spoke to my doctor, and got the ok. So readers, this is my last month of dairy, the last thing I will give up.
Being Haitian-American, I grew up eating Caribbean style food; rice and beans, chicken, beef, goat, you name it, so I know it is going to be difficult. Not to mention I LOVE sour cream. Me and sour cream have a secret relationship, that goes with baked potatoes, nachos, tacos, on a fiesta omelet, I mean it is so good. But I am going to give that up, just for you (little person inside). Wish me luck readers, this is going to be the hardest break up ever!!
The purpose of this blog is just to document my experience as a pregnant vegan women, but also how I adjust to the change of creating an actual life. Please feel free to comment, I would love to hear about your experiences, and you don't need to be vegan to respond :-)
Good Luck to all the new moms out there, hope to hear from you soon!
Sabrina.
Hello, My name is Sabrina and I am having my first child. Today, I am officially 14 weeks! Yes, I am scared out of my mind!! Growing a human being is not as easy as it looks. For the first 3 months, I was nauseous ALL DAY LONG!! I can smell things from miles away, and I have to use the bathroom every 2 hours. I am actually waiting for the pregnancy to start being fun :-/ But enough about that, lets talk about what's coming up!!
I am clinical obese, you can say, so I have made a decision to be healthy for my pregnancy. Ok, ok, I will tell you how much I weigh, but please promise me you won't tell ANYONE!! Promise, Promise! Before finding out I was pregnant, I was..... 209lb (shhhhhh). standing at 5'4" tall I know that is not healthy, but trust me I used to be heavier. 3 years ago my sister and I decided to become Lacto-Ovo Vegetarians. For those of you who don't know what that is, it meas that we will eat dairy and eggs, but no meat. I ended up loosing over 65 lb and have kept it off. I started to work out 4 times a week, and I have never been healthier. How many of you can say you can run 2 miles straight? Didn't think so lol. I started to eat fish again, because the doctor said that my iron was low, and I didn't like taking the vitamins. Last week, I decided that I would like to transition to full on vegan. I know, its very scary, but I want to give my baby a fighting chance. With weight can come complications, such as, gestational diabetes and high blood pressure; Those were scary enough complications for me to want to make a change. According to "What to Expect When Expecting" by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel (and a whole bunch of other names), overweight women are recommended to gain 15-20 pounds during their pregnancy (Pp.51). Considering my my older sister gained on her pregnancy, that is almost half of what she gained. So I thought to myself, "Sabrina, what can you do that is healthy, but you can still maintain a healthy weight for you and your baby?" BECOME A VEGAN, DUH!! Some may say, this is a drastic measure, but I spoke to my doctor, and got the ok. So readers, this is my last month of dairy, the last thing I will give up.
Being Haitian-American, I grew up eating Caribbean style food; rice and beans, chicken, beef, goat, you name it, so I know it is going to be difficult. Not to mention I LOVE sour cream. Me and sour cream have a secret relationship, that goes with baked potatoes, nachos, tacos, on a fiesta omelet, I mean it is so good. But I am going to give that up, just for you (little person inside). Wish me luck readers, this is going to be the hardest break up ever!!
The purpose of this blog is just to document my experience as a pregnant vegan women, but also how I adjust to the change of creating an actual life. Please feel free to comment, I would love to hear about your experiences, and you don't need to be vegan to respond :-)
Good Luck to all the new moms out there, hope to hear from you soon!
Sabrina.
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