Earth Mama Angel Baby Giveaway

Started by Melinda, a mother who believes in the natural healing power of herbs, Earth Mama Angel Baby offers organic products for expectant and new mothers, and their babies.  Their dedication to supporting mothers and babies makes them such an easy fit with The Leaky Boob.  Read below as Melinda shares more about Earth Mama Angel Baby and some of her own experience as a new mother. And then enter for your chance to win a Breastfeeding Essentials Bundle!

MelindaOlson

TLB:  What should readers know about Earth Mama Angel Baby and the values you hold to for your company?

Melinda:  The one most important thing I’d love people to really understand is this: these products were formulated for pregnant women to use. If it’s going ON and IN a pregnant woman, it is literally being given to her unborn baby. The herbs used in Earth Mama products have stood the test of generations, and have been historically, safely used on the most fragile population on the planet. If it’s truly safe enough for a pregnant woman, it’s safe. But how do you know what’s safe?

We love mamas with lots of questions, because we have them too. What makes a product truly organic? Why do some companies use questionable ingredients but still use the word organic? What’s all that information on the label, and is it important? We think it is, and we think mamas have a right to know what they are putting on their babies. We don’t think that’s too much to ask, so we are happy to tell them!

TLB: Do you think parents really care about reading labels and knowing what organic really means?

Melinda: The reason we do this is because it’s safer. And safer is better. I couldn’t do it any other way, because I need to sleep at night knowing I’ve done my best to keep mamas and babies safe. One of our missions is education. People know to do better once they know that there is better to do. And we think that once mamas know about what’s really safe, they start to see how difficult it can be as a consumer to know what you are really putting on your baby. Mamas shouldn’t have to be chemists to know if something is safe. If something is safe it should say on the label. Sadly, there are a lot of words – like safe, natural, honest, organic – that are used on product labels that are anything but.

TLB:  What was the inspiration behind the name Earth Mama Angel Baby?

Melinda: It’s about using traditional plant medicine for our most precious populations: pregnant mamas and brand new babies. Our tag line is “Gifts from the earth, for your gift from heaven” and that’s not just cute, it’s true.

TLB: What is your role in Earth Mama Angel Baby and what do you enjoy most about it?

Melinda: Earth Mama Angel Baby was born in my garage, after I spent an intensive period studying herbs and plant medicine. I knew instinctively that the herbs that are abundant on this earth are here to heal and nurture, safely, and I wanted to pass that on to people. Women especially, because women go through pregnancy with a lot of thought for their growing baby, but with not as much thought for their stretching, itchy skin, bottom problems and tummy troubles. I enjoy helping mamas who are feeling so exhausted or discouraged from the normal discomforts of pregnancy. Or hearing that Angel Baby Bottom Balm soothed a particularly terrible diaper rash. I love getting feedback from mamas, whether they are needing help or saying thanks, it’s a joy to connect with them. And the baby pictures are great too!

TLB:  We all know that all that’s really essential to breastfeeding are a pair of lactating breasts and a hungry baby, but aside from those basics, what did you find invaluable in your breastfeeding journey?

Melinda: On day two after my first child was born I was home alone. I didn’t have support or models of breastfeeding, but I also didn’t have any expectations of problems. I didn’t know there could be problems, so any difficulty that came up I just figured out! Although I think the resources mamas have now are invaluable, with breastfeeding support and lactation consultants and sites like The Leaky Boob, there was something important for me in just sticking it out because I had to. I think I’d say to breastfeeding mamas, when you’re going to dig a trench you’re gonna get blisters, but by the time you’ve dug 5 trenches you’ll have some calluses and you’ll know that holding the spade a certain way works better for you than another way. By the time you’ve dug 10 you won’t even think about any of that. There’s a break-in period for breastfeeding, and it comes from sticking it out. In the end there is an amazing reward, not just the best nutrition for your baby, and the bond you’ll have for life, but the knowledge that you did this amazing, miraculous thing. It’s like boot camp, you asked your body to do something difficult, and it responded with exhaustion and confusion and then showing you that it was capable of doing it.

_________________________

Earth Mama Angel Baby is giving away 3 Breastfeeding Essentials Bundle to 3 lucky Leakies! 

The Breastfeeding Essentials Bundle has a retail value of $44.09 and its purpose is to offer soothing comfort to nourish a new mama’s breasts, so she can nourish her angel baby, naturally.

It includes all-natural necessities for every breastfeeding mama. Organic Milkmaid Tea is a USDA Certified 100% Organic nursing tea that helps support healthy breast milk production. Lanolin-free Natural Nipple Butter (2 fl. Oz.) is a naturally safe nipple cream that helps soothe and prevent sore, cracked nipples. Booby Tubes® are gel-free breast packs to use warm or cold to ease breasts sore from engorgement or mastitis. Safe and natural, with no toxins ever.

breastfeed_bundle2

Currently Leakies can find these and other wonderful organic products at www.earthmamaangelbaby.com

_________________________


Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from March 21, 2013 through March 27, 2013.  A big thanks to Melinda and Earth Mama Angel Baby for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to visit their Facebook page and Twitter (@earthmamahq) and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway open to U.S. entries only. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy Giveaway

Becoming a parent is an event that changes you, and life as you know it, in many expected and surprising ways – most everyone recognizes this.  Perhaps less recognized, is that having your second child is often just as, if not even more, full of surprises and changes than with your first.  You think you have this parenting thing figured out with one, and then realize that what worked for them isn’t going to cut it for the second.  There’s beauty in the reality that as your family grows and changes, you all change and grow together.  This is something that Jeemaa, jewelry maker and TLB sponsor, is experiencing right now!  She shares some of her thoughts in a brief interview below, and shares some of the creations that her new baby boy have inspired with The Leaky Boob community through a giveaway further down the page.  



TLB:  First of all, congratulations Jeemaa, on the arrival of your new baby!  How is everyone adjusting to this cute new family member?

Jeemaa:  Thank you so very much!  We are overjoyed to welcome our son Oliver.  He is adorable and we are all slowly adjusting to our new hectic life!  The first couple of weeks were rough for our two year old Zachary, but he has quickly turned into a loving and caring big brother.  It melts my heart when I see him bond with his little brother!

TLB:  Have you been able to enjoy some quality down time since the birth?

Jeemaa:  At the moment, it is hard to find time for myself, but my husband and I try to save Friday nights for DVR date night.  We really look forward to it!  Once we establish a good routine that works for everyone, I am sure I will be able to have some quality time for myself.

TLB:  Have you noticed anything different with your breastfeeding experience this time around, and has it changed any of your views on breastfeeding?

Jeemaa:  Breastfeeding did not come easy to me with my first.  The first few months were a blur and all I remember is a lot of pain, problems with latching, mastitis more than a few times and the list goes on.  I was pretty close to giving up but kept telling myself one more week.  I think Zachary was about five months when I could finally say “OK, I think I can do it!”   The second time around, it has been a lot easier!  Oliver latched on like a seasoned pro!  I still had a few of the same issues (e.g., mastitis, oversupply) that I had with my first, but I knew where to look for answers.  I think my views on breastfeeding are evolving and I am definitely more respectful and understanding of others’ decisions – whatever that might be.

TLB:  What is your favorite breastfeeding tip?

Jeemaa:  I have two. Have contact information for a good lactation consultant handy!  My life saver is Chris Harter in Columbus, Ohio.  She is an amazing woman full of knowledge and life time experience!  Also, take advantage of the breastfeeding help lines!

TLB:  How has your new baby affected your jewelry making business, and do you have any special plans for 2013?

Jeemaa:  A new baby means less time and I have to use my limited time wiser.  It also means new inspirations and new ideas!  Just starting from last week, Oliver started grabbing my necklace with his tiny hands.  I noticed that he loves grabbing the chunky textured wooden beads more and I thought I don’t have enough of those in my shop.  I love colors … especially the colors I find in semi precious stones.  Combining his favorite textured beads with my favorite semi precious stone beads, I created more Teething Ring Statement Necklaces.  I love the way they look and feel and would like to offer two of them for the TLB readers. I hope you will like them as much as Oliver and I do!

_________________________

Jeemaa  is giving away two (2) different prizes to two (2) lucky Leakies – one prize each.  The prizes are:

  1. A Teething Ring Statement Necklace with Rose Quartz: Made of all natural maple ring, wooden beads and a coin shaped flat Rose Quartz stone. It is simple yet pretty! The textured beads and the movable wooden ring will keep the lil ones’ hands busy.  Retail Value: $16.00
  2. A Teething Ring Statement Necklace with Turquoise: Made of all natural maple ring,  wooden beads and a coin shaped flat Turquoise stone. It is simple yet pretty! The textured beads and the movable wooden ring will keep the lil ones’ hands busy.  Retail Value: $16.00

 

Currently Leakies can find these necklaces (and others!) in Jeemaa’s Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/109554099/nursing-necklace-teething-ring-statement
https://www.etsy.com/listing/122924417/nursing-necklace-teething-ring-statement

_________________________


Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from March 5, 2013 through March 11, 2013.  A big thanks to Jeemaa and Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to visit their Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway open to international entries. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Fairhaven Health Giveaway

“For more than a decade, Fairhaven Health has been helping couples “make” and raise children naturally. Our passion is to develop products designed to safely and naturally promote fertility, pregnancy wellness, and breastfeeding success. And for years now, we’ve been achieving that important goal. From preconception through pregnancy and nursing, Fairhaven Health is there – every step of the way – to provide clinically-proven products to help you along your journey to parenthood.” ~Suzanne, on staff at Fairhaven Health.
TLB has asked Suzanne, to share her thoughts and resource ideas for new moms in the following interview. You’ll find your opportunity to enter the Fairhaven Health giveaway below the interview; enter for your chance to win a collection of great nursing products!

Munson Family

TLB:  What is your funniest story of what surprised you when you had a newborn?

Suzanne:  I will never forget the look on my husband’s face after we buckled our brand-new baby daughter into her car seat for the very first time as we prepared to head home from the birthing center where she was born less than 24 hours before. The discharge nurse looked on as we got her settled, then did a quick security check of the car seat and told us we were free to go. My husband stared at her in disbelief, his eyes big as saucers.  “Are you sure we should go?” he asked. The nurse smiled knowingly, hugged us both, and said, “You will all be fine”. We must have sat in the car for at least 15 minutes before my husband started the engine, staring at each other and our beautiful little girl, surprised and overwhelmed by the immensity of gratitude and responsibility we suddenly felt.

TLB:  What is the best advice you can think of to give a new mom?

Suzanne:  Use your people!  Everyone loves babies, so let your friends and family hold your baby, change your baby, and bathe your baby. And, while they are caring for the baby, make sure to take time to rest. Also, don’t be shy about asking your friends and family for help with chores around the house. Your friends will be happy to fold cute little baby clothes while you chat and drink the Fairhaven Health Nursing Time Tea you win in this giveaway!

TLB:  How is Fairhaven Health supporting breastfeeding not only in product but also in resources?

Suzanne: At Fairhaven Health, we support breastfeeding as the optimal feeding choice for moms and babies. We also understand that for some women, “choosing” breastfeeding isn’t always easy. Pregnant woman are constantly bombarded with confusing messages about breastfeeding vs. formula feeding, and even when new moms want to breastfeed, they often lack the information and support (from peers and professionals) they need to breastfeed successfully. In addition to offering a variety of natural products to support breastfeeding moms (including dietary supplements and teas that offer nutritional support and promote breast milk production, as well as a natural, lanolin-free nipple balm), Fairhaven Health is proud to sponsor the following organizations that are actively working to normalize breastfeeding and support nursing moms in our communities. If you don’t already know about Cottonwood Kids and Best for Babes, be sure to check out these awesome organizations. And, of course, we all love The Leaky Boob!

In addition to supporting the organizations above, we are always looking for ways to serve as a resource for nursing moms needing information and support. Our BellytoBreast Facebook page is dedicated to issues and information pertinent to pregnant and breastfeeding women, and we offer several ways for nursing moms to interact with our customer service team, including email, phone and live chat.

TLB:  When moms have a new baby, what are your favorite ways to suggest she takes care of herself to recover well, have energy, and be set up to reach her breastfeeding goals?

Suzanne:  This is a tough question! Let’s face it, as wonderful as being a new mom is, it is also very demanding and, at times, quite stressful. And, all of the things that you “should” do to take care of yourself (like rest, eat well, exercise, etc.) take time, which is, of course, in short supply. So, I definitely don’t have the secret to restoring and maintaining energy levels while breastfeeding, but I will share with you what helped me when my kids were babies: yoga (as infrequent as it was!), playing the piano,  getting some fresh air (even if I just sat on the front porch for 15 minutes as I nursed), and napping.

_________________________

Fairhaven Health is giving away a collection of their nursing products to 10 (ten) lucky Leakies.  The retail value of the collection is: $62.00

The 4 items in the collection are:

1 bottle of Nursing Blend 

NursingBlend image

1 package of Nursing Time Tea 

nursing-tea

1 Nipple Nurture Balm 

nipple-nurture

And, just for the fun of it, 1 DreamBelly Stretch Mark Butter!

DreamBellyButter

Currently Leakies can find these and other items at FairhavenHealth.com.

_________________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from February 19, 2013 through February 25, 2013.  A big thanks to Fairhaven Health for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to visit BellytoBreast on Facebook or follow them on Twitter and/or Pinterest and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is restricted to U.S. (including Puerto Rico and APO) and Canadian residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Valentine’s Day Giveaway from Rumina

Happy Valentine’s Day!
Rumina, TLB sponsor from way back, would like to make this day a little more fun by giving you a chance to win one of their muli-function tops: the Rumina Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tank.  In a brief interview below, the sisters behind Rumina, Amanda and Dawn, one expecting her first baby, the other 3 months post-partum, share with our readers some thoughts on how babies change your life, and in honor of the Holiday, they describe both their ideal night out and their favorite cheap date.  Enter for your chance to enter the giveaway below.  

Three women of Rumina

TLB:  Amanda, with expecting your first little one, what aspects of becoming a mother make you nervous?

Amanda:   It would probably be the planning for the unexpected, and how can you really plan for that? I’ve been a planner with set time frames and goals for a lot of big aspects of my life, school, my previous career, finances but the one thing my fiancé and I were not planning at the time was a baby. Now I find myself switching gears and trying to create a plan for our baby and I know that the ideas and expectations I have will probably go out the window as soon as the little guy arrives. I hear they have an amazing ability to completely change your life. As a planner, not knowing what that change will look like makes me a little nervous but I’m also really excited. I know I’ll have a lot of help and support around me to take care of the little guy, and I’m so excited to be a mom. So if there’s time to learn to embrace living in the moment, it’ll be when he arrives.

TLB:  Dawn, three months into adding a little one to your family, how does big brother show affection to his new little sister?

Dawn:  This has been a big change for Bryce.  He has had 5 years of undivided attention from my husband and I.  At first, he would just look at her and ask each day, “is she big yet” as he wants to play!  Now, 3 months in, Bryce has to hug and kiss her before he goes to bed each night and is upset if this is missed.  We have also caught him lightly tickling her and say, “who’s the cutest baby” in a baby voice.  My son has a very good heart.  I know that as the days pass, the bond with them will continue to deepen.

TLB:  Dawn and Amanda, describe your ideal romantic date.

Amanda:  Right now, being 6 months and still childless, I think I would have to stretch the ideal romantic date into an ideal romantic weekend. My fiancé and I live in the Pacific Northwest right on the border of Washington and Idaho, we have beautiful  resorts overlooking the mountains and lakes. I think it would be great to have a nice dinner and splurge on a overnight stay in a room with a view. Then before we jumped in the car for the drive home he would “surprise” me with a pregnancy massage in the resorts spa. Now that sounds ideal.

Dawn:  LOL, date?  what is a date?  I used to fantasize about places like Fiji and my husband and I used to travel all over and dance Argentine Tango… man those were the days.  Now I just fantasize about drinking coffee on a Sunday morning without anyone saying my name for 2 hours.  🙂  Ok, if I was to really think hard, my ideal date would be to go wine tasting either at our local wineries or up in Napa like we used to.

TLB:  Dawn and Amanda, describe your favorite cheap date night in.

Amanda:   Our cheap date night, which doesn’t happen very often even for a cheap date, is usually an outing at the dollar movie theatre. In our area we have a dollar theatre that shows movies usually already available for rental but still cheaper than renting. We usually pick up a few candies and sneak them into the theatre too, we’re those kind of people. It’s nice feeling like its still a date without spending $30.00 just to watch a movie.

Dawn –  Our cheap date night was really a date afternoon.  This was before Beth was born and we just had our son.  When our son was at school, we would steal away to the movies for an afternoon show.  Matinees are much cheaper and less crowded!  (of course, I had to play hooky from my day job)!

_________________________

 Dawn and Amanda are giving away one Rumina Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tank to 3 lucky Leakies! 
Winners choose the style, size and color of their choice!

Here’s what you’re getting in the Rumina Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tank: 

One Tank. Three Essential Functions. The perfect layer for a busy mom’s lifestyle, Rumina Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tanks have a built-in bra that allows for effortless pumping and nursing without sacrificing shape and support. No longer do moms have to remember an extra garment to change into to pump, Rumina’s tanks offer all day support under your favorite blouses or shirts. With extra length for fashion and layering, Rumina’s tanks provide complete coverage and the soft knit blend of 90% Cotton and 10% Lycra, stretches and recovers to adjust to a new mom’s changing body. Rumina’s Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tanks take the extra steps and time out of pumping!  Retail Value: $48.00

Styles Full Coverage and Classic Coverage Tanks

Currently Leakies can find Rumina’s Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tanks, in both Classic Coverage and Full Coverage styles at www.ruminaformoms.com.

_________________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from Feb. 14th 2013 through Feb. 20 2013.  A big thanks to Dawn and Amanda and Rumina Nursingwear for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to visit their Facebook page  or follow them on twitter  (@RuminaAmanda on Twitter) and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is restricted to U.S. residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Nursing Bra Express Giveaway

The Leaky Boob sponsors come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from work-at-home hand-crafting moms to local boutiques that have branched out to the internet, to large companies that have products in big stores all over the country run by a team of people; from single product companies to online retailers featuring a plethora of hand-selected items.  They all have one thing in common: the people behind them desire to support moms in all their stages of motherhood.  TLB sponsor Nursing Bra Express is a perfect example.  Dara runs her online retailer and specializes in Nursing Bras, but that’s not all she offers.  I took the liberty of copying this from the Nursing Bra Express Facebook page:
Screen Shot 2013-02-06 at 12.01.25 PM
Additionally, you can find a collection of helpful links at the bottom of the Nursing Bra Express website, to keep you informed and support you in your breastfeeding experience, including Breastfeeding State Laws.  Read on as Dara answers a few interview questions about her family and her company, and enter for your chance to win a prize from Nursing Bar Express!

nursing_bra_express_May11

TLB:  Hello Dara, what kinds of activities does your family enjoy doing together during the winter season?

Dara:  The winter is a cold season where we live in Massachusetts, most nights are spent snuggling up with fuzzy blankets in front of the fireplace (although it is a gas fireplace, it still gives off tons of warmth, but no work involved!).  Skiing and snowboarding is also something we enjoy but haven’t been able to hit the slopes yet this season.

TLB:  Your company, Nursing Bra Express, has been a TLB sponsor for quite some time now.  What do you have going on that you would like to share with The Leaky Boob community?

Dara:  The most exciting news recently is that Nursing Bra Express is now a member of the Best for Babes Foundation’s C.A.R.E – WHO Alliance.  We have also added a couple new Bravado & QT Intimates nursing bras and Glamourmom nursing tanks, since last time we did a giveaway at The Leaky Boob.

TLB:  The name of your company suggests that you’re all about nursing bras; what other kinds of items would interest our readers?

Dara:  We sell a lot of cotton flannel reusable nursing pads and natural nipple butter.  I wish I could afford to put a sample of each in all of the outgoing orders, just so moms could experience how great these two products are!

TLB:  What kind of advice would you give a mother trying to figure out how she feels about nursing in public places?

Dara:  My sister recently nursed in public for the first time at a shopping mall in Cleveland, OH while we visiting family over a long weekend.  She was always too uncomfortable to nurse publicly  in an area where she knew people, so this mall located 900 miles away from home seemed like a good starting point.  She felt at ease among strangers and was then able to nurse in public comfortably while back at home as she imagined herself back at the mall in Cleveland.  Although one would think she would be most comfortable nursing around peoples she knows, sometimes friends and acquaintances can be more judgemental than a complete stranger.  So my advice would be to nurse in public (for the first time) in a place that you feel most comfortable – whether it be at a shopping mall that’s several miles away and hidden from people you may be afraid to run into,  at a friend’s house among people you know, a doctor’s office where others around you may be nursing too, etc.  Fears about breastfeeding in public places should be easier to overcome if your first experience is in a place where YOU feel most at ease. Every time after that should be easier and even easier! Much like riding a bike.  🙂

______________________________

Dara is giving away 3 different prizes to 3 lucky Leakies!

1st Prize : Superior quality La Leche League nursing tank in your choice of Black, Ink Blue, Rose Red or White. Sizes S-3X  Retail Value $35

la-leche-league-nursing-tank-rose-red

la-leche-league-nursing-tank-nursing-opening

2nd Prize:  As mentioned in my interview above, a package of Kushies washable cotton flannel nursing pads.   Value $9

N900-2

3rd Prize: As also mentioned above, Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter because every nursing mom should have this amazing product!  Retail Value: $14.95

Natural-Nipple-Butter

Currently Leakies can find these and other helpful breastfeeding items on the Nursing Bra Express website.

______________________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from February 6, 2013 through February 12, 2013.  A big thanks to Dara and Nursing Bra Express for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to visit their Facebook page, follow them on Twitter (@NursingBraExpss) and/or Pinterest and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is restricted to Canada, U.S., Puerto Rico, and APO/FPO entries only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Peek Away Giveaway

Peek Away was developed out of necessity during a time of hardship for co -inventor, Natalie Sanders. She was inspired to create Peek Away’s 4-In-1 Nursing Kit, when she was nursing her second son and had to endure frequent long road trips.

She and her husband, Glen, recently lost their business and were on the verge of losing their house. Determined to find stability they chose to move closer to family. Natalie took a job as an occupational therapist specializing in the NICU and pediatric department at a county hospital. Nearby lived her grandmother, where she and her family stayed during the week. Every weekend they’d commute three hours north to upkeep their house until it could sell. Their son was just 3 months old, and their other son 3 years old. Commuting in a hatchback car & living with family did not provide much space. Carrying a large diaper bag, nursing pillow, in addition to luggage was virtually impossible. Stopping on the road to nurse in parking lots, restaurants or pumping in the car became a way of life. It was tiresome and very hard to get comfortable. Natalie and Glen searched for a travel nursing pillow, but there wasn’t one on the market yet, so they created their own together!  

Now TLB sponsors, they are offering our community 3 of their creations for this stylish and practical giveaway. 

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about Peek Away?

Natalie:  Peek Away isn’t just another nursing pillow on the market. It is very unique and original. Careful consideration was given when creating this pillow. I was able to utilize my professional knowledge of ergonomics and my experience working with infants and lactation consultants to carefully design a pillow to help moms feel comfortable breastfeeding anywhere. It provides proper positioning, giving ample support and comfort when nursing in cramped spaces or at home. It does not take up much room and it has all the essentials, including storage compartments and a diaper change pad with a built-in wipe case, forgoing the need to lug a diaper bag and pillow.  By nature, I’m modest and I wasn’t comfortable nursing or pumping in the car without a cover; therefore I included a separate matching nursing cover to come with the product for moms to use if they choose.

TLB:  Tell us about the inspiration behind the Peek Away and how you started your business.

Natalie:  The inspiration behind Peek Away came from the product itself. It is something very unique and serves a great purpose in promoting breastfeeding. Fortunately the patent office felt this product was unique too and issued us a utility patent in 2010 for our nursing pillow. This was a boost of optimism. That’s when we decided to test market Peek Away locally and had an overwhelming response.

TLB:  How do you balance family life and running your own company?

Natalie: Balancing family life and work has been challenging. We have had to work extremely hard to rebuild what was lost. I work outside the home at my private occupational therapy pediatric practice. Glen stays home to take care of the kids and devotes much of his time to Peek Away. I continue to contribute as much time as I can to Peek Away too, but finding a balance of running two businesses and raising a family is hard. We count our blessings that we have two wonderful happy, healthy, loving children. And like any parent, we wish we had more quality time spent with them!

TLB:  What would you suggest a mom nervous about breastfeeding in public do to get comfortable when the time comes?

Natalie: Breastfeeding should be done however one feels most comfortable, but it does take some practice before getting use to it. Some moms like using a cover, pillow, blanket, or just being bare. Babies feed off of mom’s energy and it’s important she’s relaxed. When mom’s stressed the baby knows and can panic too. This makes latching and overall feeding more difficult.  Anxiety can also affect a mom’s milk supply and the ability to have a let-down. If you plan to nurse in public and are at all anxious about it, the best thing to do is practice at home or even sitting in your yard. I practiced nursing my baby in front of a mirror, because I was worried about gracefully being able to cover up!

TLB:  What is your favorite tip for moms on the go with babies and small kids in tow?

Natalie:  My favorite tip for moms on the go with kids is just to travel light! Bring only the essentials. Eliminate the need for heavy bags that weigh down your shoulders and fatigue your arms which makes it more difficult to do what we love best : holding on to our kids!

 

Glen & Natalie are giving away a gift to 3 lucky Leakies.  The gift is their Newly Released Peek Away Travel 4-In-1 Essentials Nursing Kit – A nursing pillow discreetly carried as a handbag with storage compartments, a diaper change pad, and built-in wipe case. Included is a matching nursing cover.   Retail Value: $46.98

 

______________________________

Currently, Leakies can find their latest updated nursing pillows, in all their stylish patterns, on their website at www.peekaway.com

______________________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from December 11, 2012 through December 18, 2012 .  A big thanks to Natalie and Peek Away for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to visit their Facebook page  or follow them on twitter  and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is restricted to Canadian and  U.S. residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wild Mother Arts Holiday Giveaway

As a mother of three and as a doula & breastfeeding counsellor, Jacquelyn has a special understanding and love for pregnancy, birth, babies and breastfeeding.  Her jewelry shop, Wild Mother Arts, is the result of over 12 years of passion for birth combined with a love of making jewelry.  One of The Leaky Boob’s early sponsors, Jacquelyn happily shares some inspiring thoughts about her business, her passion, and her personal breastfeeding journey, and she is offering a Holiday-inspired giveaway to The Leaky Boob community.  Read on to find out more!

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about you Wild Mother Arts?

Jacquelyn:  My name is Jacquelyn and I’m a mama of three, a doula & breastfeeding counselor, a jewelry artisan, and my life’s work is supporting, honoring & celebrating the sacred journey of motherhood. I make fertility and birth jewelry and nursing necklaces with semi-precious gemstones and I love what I do, especially as it allows me to be a WAHM.

TLB:  What is the significance of your company name?  What’s the story behind it?

Jacquelyn:  I’ve always loved the LLL book The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, which is built on the idea that pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding are all Wild Mother Arts! Eventually I plan on expanding my business to include other things, and I wanted a name that could be expressive of what I do now and beyond.

TLB:  Where do you find inspiration for your craft?

Jacquelyn:  I find inspiration every time I read a birth story, chat with a pregnant mama, see a mother nursing their child and even just talking to my girlfriends. I love to make meaningful (and many times – practical) jewelry that celebrates the different phases of women’s lives.

TLB:  How is your family involved in your business? How do you juggle it all?

Jacquelyn:  My whole family helps support me. My youngest often names new necklaces, my older two pick up more chores around the house during busier times and help take care of their little brother. My husband assists with shipping, and right now he’s making a lot of our meals and doing most of the laundry, too – this is our very busy season. I’m not sure if I juggle it all! I try and prioritize, figure out what absolutely needs to be done first, and work down the checklist. When I have a spare few minutes, I try and get to something on the list. As well, my crock pot gets almost daily use, and podcasts are a jewelry-maker’s best friend!

TLB:  I know you share regular birth and breastfeeding affirmations on your Facebook page, which 3 have the most significance for you personally and why?

Jacquelyn:  Affirmations are special to me – I’ve used them for as long as I can remember, and I believe that positive self-talk is really valuable. Write them down, put them where you see them everyday, and say them daily.

“I remember to enjoy this phase of motherhood.”

This is the one affirmation I use on a daily basis! Though my pregnancy and breastfeeding days are now behind me, and I still miss them, there is always another tidbit of mothering joy just a minute or two away.

“I trust my inner voice; she is a worthy ally.”

I believe that we need to embrace our intuition and trust our instincts more and more in an ever-increasing technological world. Some things just can’t be replicated – not breastmilk, nor our intuition.

“My milk has no expiry date.”

My children each nursed well past toddlerhood, and I fully support full-term breastfeeding and child-led weaning. But it was hard with my first when family and friends kept asking when I was going to wean. So I’d answer, “My milk has no expiry date.” By our third, no one asked anymore.

Jacquelyn is giving away four different prizes to four lucky Leakies (one per winner).  The prizes are:

1) A $50 Gift Certificate to the Wild Mother Arts Etsy shop – choose your favorites for gifts or for yourself.  Retail value $50.00

2) Angel Pregnancy & Nursing Necklace – a guardian angel to watch over your pregnancy & birth, this sweet necklace is carved from turquoise howlite and can later be used as a nursing necklace.  Retail value $24.00

3) Gingerbread Nursing Necklace – with all the richness of gingerbread, this nursing necklace is made with a  large picasso jasper & pyrite composite donut with a copper accent.  Retail value $22.00

4) Sugar Plum Nursing Necklace – a holiday favorite! Beautiful purple grass flower jasper is mixed with shiny pyrite and a touch of silver – perfect for nursing your little sugarplum.  Retail value $22.00

Currently Leakies can find these and other jewelry celebrating fertility, birth and motherhood in the Wild Mother Arts Etsy shop.  Also, go check out the Wild Mother Arts blog, where Jacquie shares daily birth affirmations, fertility & pregnancy affirmations, quotes, ideas & activities for celebrating childbearing & early parenting.

______________________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered.  The giveaway is open from November 20, 2012 through November 27, 2012.  A big thanks to Jacquelyn and Wild Mother Arts for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to visit their Facebook page  or follow them on twitter  (@wildmotherarts on Twitter) and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open to international entries.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

______________________________

Special Black Friday/Cyber Monday announcement

Jacquelyn will be having a 12 Days of Holiday Specials from November 23 – December 4th, and the first four days (Black Friday through Cyber Monday) will be buy any two items, and get a nursing necklace for free! For all the details, see the announcement in her shop

Rumina Breastfeeding Gift Basket Giveaway

Rumina does one thing and does it very, very well.  Sisters Amanda and Dawn, the women behind Rumina, have created perhaps the most simple and versatile piece of clothing for any nursing mother’s wardrobe: the Nursingwear Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tank.  The tank appears to be just another typical staple in many women’s closet.  Unassuming and classic, it is also a nursing top for easy breastfeeding, as well as a support for hands-free pumping – but it looks like a regular tank!  Brand new Mom for the second time, Dawn has taken some time to answer some questions about what her experience has been like so far since the birth, and shares some exciting news about an award Rumina has recently received.  AND, Amanda and Dawn are offering a substantial giveaway to one lucky Leaky!  See below…

 

TLB:  Dawn, as a new mom again, what are the best ways those that love you have shown their encouragement and support and help in this time of transition?

Dawn:  My family instantly being there when needed even though each has a very busy life has allowed me to enjoy this last pregnancy and our little girl so fully.  The timing for this child coming into this world was not ideal. My husband and I have two businesses as well as a full time job so having Beth come 3 weeks early really threw off our ability to meet our obligations.  Luckily my family was a god send.  My mom and sister really took the lead with Rumina so I can enjoy this last pregnancy and delivery.  They also flew to Kentucky for a big tradeshow we had to attend.

Also, we do not live near any family, which makes “surprises” such a challenge.  I was admitted to the hospital for 4 days to be monitored and get fluids then bed rest for another 3 days while they tried to hold off delivery until the 37th week.  My family really came through; while my sister and mom were at the tradeshow, my aunt rearranged her busy schedule as an attorney and came down to be with my son when I was unexpectedly admitted to the hospital.  Since we didn’t know from day to day if we were going to have the c-section, my cousin came up to be with Bryce for the actual delivery.  She has four kids at home and owns a business as well.  I am so blessed to have so many loving and supportive women in my life!

TLB:  How is the experience with your second child different then the first with regards to nursing?

Dawn:  What a difference experience and education make!  As you know, my story on why I created Rumina stems from my son and I not having very successful nursing experience.  This led me to exclusively pump and there was not a hands-free pumping garment on the market that worked for my body.   This time around I am much more confident and comfortable with having a newborn.  Plus, I am a member of the International Lactation Consultant Association.  This invaluable education set me up for breastfeeding success. Especially with the evidence-based research on skin-to-skin contact in the Operating Room.  The hospital I delivered at is Baby Friendly but the one thing they do not practice is having c-section moms have skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth.  They usually  take the baby away to the nursery while the mom finishes surgery and recovery.   Using evidence-based research and having conversations with the Labor & Delivery Nurses, Lacatation Consultants, the OB, Pediatrician, and Anesthesiologist, I was the first person at CHOMP to be allowed to have my baby girl to be put on me immediately following birth!!!!  It was amazing to see my little girl who was not quite 37 weeks actually scoot around my chest and root for my breast!  I have seen that with vaginal births but not c-sections at 37 weeks!  I am happy to report that I had my little girl skin-to-skin for 12 hours with only a few minutes away from me in all that time.  I attribute this skin-to-skin and my confidence in myself to our breastfeeding experience being so good this time around!

TLB:  After you have a new baby, when do you start pumping to build up a freezer stash for when you’re back in the office?

Dawn:  I have to admit, I’m very fortunate and have it a little easier than most when juggling work and nursing.  Even though I travel up to Palo Alto, which is about 1 hour and 1/2 from home, regularly for meetings, I primarily work from my home office.  This will give me much more flexibility for nursing and pumping.  I will start pumping at the end of November and introduce the bottle at that point, keeping my fingers crossed everything goes well with nursing.

TLB: Any new news with Rumina you would like to share with Leakies?

Dawn:  Yes! We are so excited to share that this week Rumina’s Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tank received the Mom’s Choice Award for Honoring Excellence! We are thrilled about this award! We know moms look for distinguished awards, like the Mom’s Choice Award, when looking at which quality and reputable products to purchase. Moving forward, Rumina’s packaging will proudly display the Mom’s Choice Award Honoring Excellence seal!

 ______________________________

Rumina is giving away one loaded Breastfeeding Gift Basket to one very lucky winner.

Rumina’s Breastfeeding Gift Basket includes 4 great breastfeeding items!   Retail value $186.48 

One Rumina Nursingwear Hands-Free Pump&Nurse Tank: $48.00

One Tank. Three Essential Functions. The perfect layer for a busy mom’s lifestyle, Rumina’s Hands-Free Pump and Nurse tanks have a built-in bra that allows for effortless pumping and nursing without sacrificing shape and support. Rumina’s tanks provide complete coverage for pumping moms; no longer do moms need to find somewhere to disrobe, potentially feeling exposed while pumping. Rumina’s soft knit blend of 90% Cotton and 10% Lycra stretches and recovers to adjust to a new mom’s changing body. Both the Full Coverage and Classic Coverage styles can be purchased at www.ruminaformoms.com. Winner will be able to choose style, color and size preference.

One Bamboobies® Cute Little Nursing Cover:  $44.00

Born out of creator of Bamboobies® Kerry Gilmartin’s frustration with the unflattering apron-style nursing covers in bright prints. Bamboobies® Cute Little Nursing Cover is made from an Organic Eco-Soy Fabric: certified organic cotton 57%, soy fiber from soybean manufacturing 37%, spandex 6%. The Cute Little Nursing Cover was created out of a need for fashion + discretion and is the solution for women who want to nurse their baby privately and stylishly. Bamboobies® Cute Little Nursing Covers and washable nursing pads can be purchased at www.buybamboobies.com. Winner will be able to choose color and size preference.

Milkin’ Cookies 30 day gift certificate: $49.99

Milkin’ Cookies are made with wholesome and healthy ingredients that include whole wheat flour, flaxseed, wheat germ, and oats. Each cookie has just 190 calories and 10 grams of fat but 3 grams of fiber. Milkin’ Cookies were created by two physician moms, Lennox and Cheri, who were struggling to produce enough breast milk while working full time. There are currently two flavors: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip and Cranberry Almond. Our cookies are baked fresh to order and shipped all over the US. Milkin’ Cookies can be purchased on-line at www.milkin-cookies.com.

WarmZe Starter Kit Small and Large with Refill Kit: $44.49

WarmZe is the first truly portable bottle warmer that frees parents from being tethered to a car outlet or trapped in a kitchen when heating milk. WarmZe system consists of air-activated warmers and a fabric BottleSoc. To warm a bottle, you simply slide the BottleSoc onto your breast milk bottle, pull up the outer layer of the BottleSoc and attach a warmer, then pull the outer layer of the BottleSoc back down into place. Each WarmZe can be used multiple times a day and stays warm for up to 10 hours, making it easy for busy parents to plan ahead and warm bottles well in advance of feeding time. WarmZe can be purchased at www.ontheflybottle.com.

Currently Leakies can find these and other great pregnancy and nursing products on the Rumina website and in some local retail stores and boutiques.

______________________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered, and check out ruminaformoms.com for more information on their fantastic nursing tanks.  The giveaway is open from October 25, 2012 through October 31, 2012.  A big thanks to Dawn, Amanda, and Rumina for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit their Facebook page  or follow them on twitter (@todaysrumina on Twitter) and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open to US entries only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Fairhaven Health Giveaway

The breastfeeding journey rarely happens without challenges.  Suzanne, from TLB sponsor Fairhaven Health, knows this personally, especially when it comes to dealing with low supply.  Today, Fairhaven Health is offering our TLB community a giveaway for those concerned about low supply.  Read on for details about this opportunity, to hear what Suzanne has to share about some of her own experience with low supply and answers some questions about Fairhaven Health.   

 

TLB: What kind of personal breastfeeding experience is behind the breastfeeding related products in your product line?

Suzanne: At Fairhaven Health, we support breastfeeding as the optimal feeding choice for mom and baby, and are honored to be able to support moms in reaching their breastfeeding goals. And, from personal experience, I know that even with lots of effort and intention, it is sometimes very difficult (but never impossible) to achieve the breastfeeding goals we set for ourselves. With my first born (Abigail, now 9 years old – see attached photo), I had high hopes of breastfeeding exclusively for six months or so, and then continuing  for as long as she wanted to, but at least until she turned 1 year. How hard could that be? But, during delivery, a few complications arose, and I ended up having a very late epidural. And, perhaps as a result of this late epidural (or for some other unknown reason), Abby had difficulty breastfeeding from the get go. Even after several visits with the lactation consultant and weeks of trying to establish a breastfeeding routine, Abby and I were unsuccessful. Because Abby never nursed successfully at the breast, I pumped exclusively and we fed her my breast milk from a bottle for nine months. As many women know, it is often difficult to maintain your supply when you are only pumping, and it was no different for me. I needed every herbal galactogogue available to help maintain my supply!  I am so grateful that these products existed when I was breastfeeding, and I love that Fairhaven Health is committed to providing such high quality products, like Fenugreek, Nursing Time Tea and Nursing Blend, to support today’s breastfeeding moms in reaching their breastfeeding goals.

TLB: What should we know about the new fenugreek tablets?

Suzanne: One of the inconveniences associated with taking Fenugreek and other herbal galactogogues (as if having supply issues is not inconvenient enough), is that research shows that these herbs are most effective when taken in large quantities. As a result, most brands of Fenugreek require many capsules each day. Fairhaven Health’s new Fenugreek product is a unique combination of organic Fenugreek seed powder and a concentrated Fenugreek seed powder extract (8:1), providing an equivalent dose of 2 grams of standard Fenugreek seed powder in just two capsules. This product is also great for what it doesn’t contain: no gluten, yeast, wheat, soy, dairy, animal products, artificial colors or artificial preservatives.

TLB: What do you think is most important for moms that are concerned about supply to know?

Suzanne: I think the most important thing for moms with supply issues to know is that it is actually quite rare for a nursing mom to not be able to eventually produce enough milk to feed her baby. Instead, it is often the case that supply issues are temporary, only present as mom and baby work to establish a routine in the first days, if the baby has trouble latching, or when mom or baby is ill. Once these kinks get worked out, supply typically increases. And, moms may see a decline in supply when they transition to work, when regular feedings are interrupted due to extended absences from the baby, or when exclusively pumping. It is during all of these times that moms can really benefit from natural galactogogues, such as Fenugreek, to boost their milk supply.

 ______________________________

Fairhaven Health is giving away this helpful prize to 5 lucky winners:

Three (3) bottles of Fenugreek dietary supplement  Retail value $45.00

 

 

Currently Leakies can find these and other great pregnancy and nursing products on the Fairhaven Health website.

______________________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered, and check out fairhavenhealth.com for more products related to fertility, pregnancy, and nursing .  The giveaway is open from September 20, 2012 to September 27, 2012.  A big thanks to Suzanne and Fairhaven Health for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit their Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open to US entries only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bamboobies Giveaway

I double heart LOVE Bamboobies breast pads and I double sparkly heart love Kerry Gilmartin, the creator of Bamboobies.  From our shared sisterhood of sea salt almonds in dark chocolate to our obsession with bamboo, Kerry inspires and encourages me as a supporter of breastfeeding women.  Read on to hear from this woman of quality with a heart and passion for encouraging women and providing them comfort along their breastfeeding journey.  This generous giveaway from Kerry is sure to make 3 lucky winners comfortably taken care of for their own breastfeeding journey.  I’m so grateful for the support of Bamboobies for TLB and the friendship of Kerry.

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about Bamboobies?

Kerry:  Bamboobies is a small mom-run business based in Boulder, Colorado, dedicated to making better, more eco-friendly breastfeeding support products.  Our products are made by women making a real living wage (with insurance!) in Colorado and are made of the highest quality, most eco-friendly fabrics and packaging.  Bamboobies nursing pads, were our first creation, followed by the Chic Nursing Shawl, and Boob-ease Therapy pillows, and Natural Nipple Balm. More new products on the way too – keep in touch!

TLB:  How did Bamboobies come about?

Kerry:  I was nursing my second child – and was very leaky, esp when letting down on the other side.  Frustrated by leaky cotton washable pads, I’d often use disposables with the plastic backing to be sure I didn’t leak through. These got expensive and also looked just as silly through my clothing as the washables did.  I thought it was just another tough thing about being a new mom but never thought I could do anything about it…  I was learning about cloth diapers when I discovered the amazing softness of Bamboo and began putting little bamboo velour wipes in my bra – looked ridiculous but ohh so soft!  When I thought of the funny name Bamboobies I decided to do something about it!  Too funny…  So – I began with the help of my step-mother, a seamstress, to design a thinner, less visible and leak-proof pad. Our heart-shape regular pad was first, then came our ultra-thick overnight pad.

TLB:  What is your favorite part of running a company that creates products to support breastfeeding moms?

Kerry:  The ‘love notes’ we get every day from new moms who are happy they’ve discovered our pads, or therapy pillows…  I suffered from leaking – but even more from mastitis. When I think our nipple balm or therapy pillows have helped someone get through the tough parts of nursing in the beginning so they have a happy nursing relationship, I’m thrilled.

TLB:  How long did you breastfeed your own little ones and was that different than you originally planned?

Kerry:  I didn’t think I’d make it past the ‘mandatory’ 2 weeks – I had forceful letdown, clogged ducts and mastitis many times.  I was happy when I was able to work through issues with my first and continued nursing him until my second was born 22 months later.  I nursed her until my third was born 24 months later and we’re still going strong 5.5 years later!  I had some tough times during pregnancy and teething but am very happy to have had such great nursing relationships through toddler-hood with all three kiddos. My son is 1.5 yrs old now and is very attached so we’ll keep at it until he’s ready to quit….

 ______________________________

Kerry is giving away 3 comforting prizes to 3 happy winners!  The first two winners will each receive the following 2 prizes:

One Bamboobies Multi-pack  Retail value: $29.99

One Boob-ease Natural Nipple Balm  Retail value: $11.99

The Grand Prize winner will receive the Bamboobies Multi-pack and the Nipple Balm listed above, PLUS:

One Chic Nursing Shawl  Retail value: $44.00

One pair of Boob-ease Soothing Therapy Pillows  Retail Value: $24.50

Grand Prize value: $111.48

 Currently Leakies can find these and other great products on the Bamboobies website.

______________________________

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered, and have fun browsing buybamboobies.com.  The giveaway is open from September 8, 2012 to September 15, 2012.  A big thanks to Kerry for her ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit their Facebook page or follow them on twitter (@bamboobies on Twitter) and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open to international entries.

a Rafflecopter giveaway