Listen to Lena

Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

PTPA

Enter to Win: Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox

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Note: The following giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents.

As Father’s Day is right around the corner, here’s a fun little giveaway that’s sure to bring on the chuckles!

Now it’s a fact that baby showers, prenatal perks, push presents and the like are all enjoyed by mamas-to-be. And, ahem, with good reason – we kinda do all the work, yes?

But more and more men are taking an active role once baby arrives – including my own husband, who learned to change a diaper before I did, and can expertly tell the difference between “tired cries”, “hunger cries”, and – as he likes to call ’em – “I own you b*tch!” cries.

So shouldn’t these awesome dudes be rewarded, too?

Introducing The Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox. If you’re searching for fun and functional gifts for dads to be, or new dad gifts, look no further than the toolbox. The Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox is a great way for him to get in on the baby planning action and add a little fun to a baby shower! It also helps to lighten the stress after baby arrives.

The Toolbox includes (click to enlarge picture):

• Mask –toxic fume filter for when it doesn’t smell like roses.
• Goggles –for protection against your own mini version of Old Faithful.
• Protective Poop Poncho –need we say more???
• Tongs –Several inches of steel separate you and the little warm wrapped gift.
• Turkey Baster –for precision hiney washing.
• Ear/Nose Plugs –use with care.
• Pacifier — scream plug.
• Baby Wipes — for cleaning baby bottom and various parts.
• Diaper for Newborn — cute as a kitten until it gets wet and smells like a sewer rat.
• Bio Hazard Bag/Rubber Gloves — for quarantine containment of the nuclear meltdown.
• Emergency Formula Container– doubles as a PeePee cover for WeWe.
• Hand Wipes– to clean up afterward. (For Dad’s use only).
• Picture Frame — this is your badge of honor.

Are you in stitches, yet? This is one of the most creative gifts I’ve ever seen!

The Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox was featured on the TODAY Show last Father’s Day, and is PTPA Award Winning.


Parents everywhere agree: at just $36.99, it’s an awesome father to be gift! Any time of year, it’ll be sure to bring on the laughs. BONUS! You can save $10 off The Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox with coupon code POOP101.


One lucky winner will win a Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox! To enter, simply leave a comment telling us why this is the perfect gift for someone you know.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena!
(5) Tweet daily: Please use this Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on June 30th. Good luck everybody!

Introducing… Thought Spots!

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Have you ever received a sweet little love note? How about an encouraging text from a good friend? Or perhaps it’s just a kind compliment from a stranger on the street. There’s no denying it – a few kind words can make you feel like a million bucks.

Now what if you could…

The creator of PTPA Award Winning Thought Spots instinctively realized that sometimes we forget to encourage, show gratitude for, or appreciate our loved ones… or simply can’t find the right words. With Thought Spots, a collection of reusable vinyl “stickers” (they adhere mess-free via static cling!), you’ll always be able to share your feelings in a playful way. The spots feature positive phrases to inspire and energize – encouraging love and laughter!

“It’s all about living with intention and keeping the good stuff in sight…and in mind! We’ve placed inspiring messages, learning concepts and growth-building thoughts on a “spot”. These “spots” are then grouped into theme based thought experiences called Thought Packs or individual thought experiences called a Big Thought. Thought Spots are made from high grade Static-Cling vinyl; you put them on your mirror or most shiny surfaces and they stick with no adhesive, which means no mess. Because they’re so easy to use (and re-use!), you can move them around and change them often so that you can keep your thoughts fresh.”

Place them on bathroom mirrors, fridges, windows, whiteboards, aluminum water bottles or any other clean, shiny surfaces and watch them get noticed!

Lynn Petruskavich, creator of Thought Spots, very kindly sent me the “Create a Smile” thought pack plus assorted Big Thoughts for review.

Such a simple concept brings so much joy! Even though my son is too young to read, he loved seeing the colourful sayings and words of inspiration pop up throughout the house. The Thought Spots were easy to peel and stick (static cling, while not so good for hair, works wonders to allow for mess-free adhesion). And I was most impressed by the fact that you truly can use these over and over again – the Thoughts all have special storage envelopes to ensure they keep their shape while not in use.

Do take some time to visit Thought Spots’ website and go through the Thoughts – you’re bound to find ones that are relevant to your present circumstances or even events on the horizon. I love that the Thought Packs speak to a variety of audiences – everyone from Teens and Tweens to Brides! And now, I’m part of The Joy Project! It is encouraged that I gift the Big Thoughts I received to other women I know who can use some inspiration or motivation. It’s all about having fun – and spreading joy!

And I just know I’ll be spreading joy with this announcement – Thought Spots is currently having a HUGE sale! Visit the online store for amazing savings on ALL Thought Packs and Big Thoughts. The sale lasts until December 19th, so make someone smile today. Thought Spots are wonderful for holiday gift giving as a stocking stuffer for kids/moms, plus it makes a fabulous teachers gift!

Could it get better? It just did! You’ll also receive a FREE THOUGHT PACK with any on-line order using coupon code SHARE (value $14). The coupon also expires on December 19th.

Oh yeah… just one more thing – WIN IT! Link on over to PTPA’s Blogaholics page to enter for your chance to win a “Mom Essentials” Thought Spots Prize Pack– featuring 1 Thought Pack for mom; 1 Thought Pack for sharing with the kids and 3 Big Thoughts as part of the Joy Project. Good luck!

The Fresh Diet: Day 1

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It’s Day 1 of The Fresh Diet!

I’ve been bouncing off the walls for the last few days waiting for my first delivery. I had even worked myself up into a tizzy, worrying that they may forget me “en route” (much like I used to fret that Santa would pass up my chimney).

So this morning, I bounded downstairs with what can only be described as joyful anticipation, et VOILA! The Fresh Diet’s trademark cooler bag was waiting for me!

LOVE that today’s menu was peeking out of a side pocket; it reinforced the fact that I was receiving chef-prepared cuisine. The bag was hinged shut with plastic tie strap, giving me confidence that no prying fingers were able to get to my food before I did.

So what’s on today’s menu?

Breakfast: Portabella Mushroom, Shallot & Parmesan Cheese Egg Bake with Fresh Papaya
Lunch: Lemon Pepper Grilled Shrimp Salad with Tomato, Romaine Lettuce, Whole Wheat Croutons & Ranch Dressing
Dinner: Grilled Chicken Breast with Roasted Yellow Pepper & Shallot Sauce with Roasted Red Beets and Cilantro Roasted Yellow Tomato
Hors d’oeuvre: Cucumber & Green Papaya Slaw with Low Fat Yogurt
Dessert: Raspberry Vanilla Pudding

Diet food? I don’t think so. I wolfed down my breakfast before it occurred to me to take a photo, but I was more patient with my lunch. Now tell me, wouldn’t you love to have this delicious grilled shrimp salad prepared for you – with the right proportions of carbs, fat and protein? The thinking (and cooking) are done for you – all that’s left is to enjoy.

You won’t be able to see it from the photo, but trust me: they don’t skimp on portion size. The salad was comparable to a packaged salad you would find in your grocery store or cold counter.

And the taste? Well, let’s rewind to breakfast – I simply could not believe that such a light, airy egg bake could also be so dense and delicious. I was seriously FULL after eating, and remained pleasantly so for about two hours, which took me to lunch time. Now I probably don’t have to say it, but the grilled shrimp salad was DIVINE.

It’s just about time for my mid afternoon snack – or hors d’oeuvre if you will – and I’m still feeling wonderfully satiated and high on the fact that I’m eating FRESH food.

Now here’s the elephant in the room – the cost. The Fresh Diet is not inexpensive. The Premium Choice plan is $1,394.69 USD for 31 days, and the Chef’s Choice is slightly less at $1,084.69 USD. But, YOU decide what your time, grocery bills, nutrition and healthy eating habits are worth. If you grab takeout a lot, on average, you can spend approximately $20-$25 each day on food that does not guarantee proper portions, convenience, balanced vitamins and minerals, nutrition, or overall quality. The Fresh Diet provides you with all of those benefits at a comparable daily rate.

I’ll be back later this week to update you on my progress – if the other 30 days are anything like today, I’d say this is one diet everyone can stick with.

p.s. Blogging a FABULOUSLY FRESH giveaway later today!

Countdown to… The Fresh Diet!

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Friends, I have a confession to make. I’ve been keeping a secret for some time now… and even though I find it simple to go about my day-to-day routine, I’ve always had this nagging doubt at the back of my mind.

I’ve lost my mojo.

You see, I used to be a hottie; a slim, pretty girl with an infectious smile and a carefree attitude about food and fashion. I ate what I wanted, threw on a t-shirt and skinny jeans and if the occasion called for it – put on a smashing little black dress. Life was simple.

But two years and two pregnancies later, I’ve held onto an unwelcome 20 lbs that I. WANT. GONE.

I hate being so far from my ideal weight. I hate stuffing toast into my mouth when I’m bored. And most of all, I hate holding onto the notion that just because I’m a stay at home mom, I have little motivation to look my best.

So in my last trimester of pregnancy with Reid, I set three (3) major goals for myself:

1. Breastfeed my baby for at least 6 months. (Woo hoo! CHECK!)
2. Make time to look pretty – play with makeup, keep on top of fashion trends, take care of my skin (work in progress)
3. Lose the baby weight in a healthy, lasting way (no more excuses)

Well, Reid turned 6 months old last week, and as I have a well-established milk supply, it’s time to say goodbye to this lingering pregnancy weight. (For the record, I know the holidays are right around the corner – but what better motivation to stay on track on turkey day than to start a diet regime now?)

So I started researching diets – ones that have a proven track record of being healthy, offering a variety of foods, and most of all, are easy to follow – because let’s face it, with two little guys to occupy my time, meetings, measuring, and making separate meals just aren’t in the cards right now.

So it just seemed like such good timing when I read a review about The Fresh Diet courtesy of Soulla from The Confessions of a Blogaholic. She tested the diet on behalf of PTPA (they’ve since been declared an Award Winner) and raved about it!

“How does mango stuffed honey wheat French toast with raspberries and banana ricotta cheese sound for breakfast? Scrumptious right? Follow it up with thyme-infused chicken salad with arugula, orange segments, strawberries and blueberry vinaigrette. Mmmm…

Throw in some charred lamb loins on whole wheat crostini with oven roasted tomatoes as an hors d’eouvre, and Greek-style meatballs with feta cheese, along with a side of roasted bell peppers and roasted sweet potato for dinner. And finally, top it off with some cherry vanilla cheesecake.

And what if I told you this food could help you lose weight and you wouldn’t even have to lift a finger in the kitchen? Sound too good to be true? Well it isn’t. This is a typical day on The Fresh Diet!”

I have to admit, I all but fell off my chair. I’m a shameless foodie; I find every excuse to make (and eat) chef-calibre cuisine. Combine that with the fact that the meals would be freshly prepared (never frozen!) and be specially balanced for optimal weight loss… and I was in heaven.

“The Fresh Diet provides the right balance of food in proper portions to help you lose weight, feel energetic, and maintain proper health. This is done by providing our customers with a healthy balance of good carbohydrates such as “low-glycemic” whole grains, legumes and vegetables, lean meat and fish proteins and healthy fats. Our program consists of a healthy balance of 40%, 30% and 30% carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

Just as important to the proper balance of meals is exceptional taste. Think about this. How many times have you tasted “diet” foods that tasted terrible? The Fresh Diet was created by a Cordon Bleu Institute trained chef, and all of our kitchens are staffed with gourmet chefs. Together they prepare 40/30/30 meals that are sinfully delicious, properly balanced, and perfectly portioned for ideal nutrition and weight loss.”

Holy Hannah.

So why am I rambling on and on about it? You guessed it! I’m going on The Fresh Diet for 31 days! The good folks at The Fresh Diet offered me the chance to stop whining about my fat thighs and do something about them. So I’ll be blogging about my journey to kick-start my weight loss, with a goal of losing at least 6-8 pounds to begin with. (The Fresh Diet offers an adjustment in caloric needs for breastfeeding mamas, so I can be sure that I’ll safely lose weight while continuing to feed the little guy.)

My first delivery is scheduled for Monday – you can be sure I’ll blog all about it… and, I just happen to have a HUGE giveaway up my sleeve! Tune in for all the details, and wish me luck!

Aquatopia Deluxe Bath Time Easy Kneeler

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“Bath Time Makes a Comeback!”

At least that’s what my headline reads ever since I discovered the Aquatopia Deluxe Safety Bath Time Easy Kneeler. I know it sounds like a mouthful, but the concept is simple: save your knees, keep bath stuff where you need it, and once again have fun bathing your little one.

With comfortable padding for knees, elbows and forearms and bath-side pockets to keep bathing supplies at arms’ reach, this kneeler helps to create a safe, comfortable and practical environment for children’s bathtime, while saving you the aches and pains of kneeling on the floor beside the tub! Made with durable neoprene material, the same material used for wetsuits, the kneeler stands up against moisture and dries quickly. Anti-slip base material helps prevent slipping even on tiled floors. Kneeler attaches securely to any standard tub with large suction cups. Measures 29 1/2″ x 50 1/2″.

I was fortunate to test the product through PTPA’s Latest & Greatest Campaign, and I literally jumped up and down when I opened the box. For months, I had complained about my knees and elbows aching as I did the bath rounds with both boys, especially since Ryder loves a captive audience and insists that I hang around tubside while he splashes.

I love the super soft padding that literally wicks up moisture like nobody’s business. The non-skid base also ensures that I stay put as I reach over the bath tub, giving me peace of mind as I lather, rinse and repeat. And when bath time fun is over, it folds up neat as can be and stores out of the way. Bonus: the anti-slip mat and extra thick foam padding is detachable, making it great for all ground level chores. Whether washing baby, scrubbing floors/tiles or cleaning the oven, the kneeler protects those all-important joints while you get the job done.

The Aquatopia Deluxe Bath Time Easy Kneeler can be found in the US at Walmart, Toys R Us, Bed Bath & Beyond, etc, and can be purchased by everyone online at Amazon.com. It retails for $29.99, and if you suffer from joint pain, is worth every penny!

MD Moms: Cleansing Towelettes Travel Pack

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Every once in a while, I come across a brand or line that literally knocks my socks off. Of course, I then make it my mission to continually post about the products, because this blog wouldn’t be called “Listen to Lena!” if I didn’t try to exert a little influence from time to time :)

Such is the case with MD Moms. I first came across the line while testing their soothing bottom relief diaper rash cream and cleansing towelettes through Parent Tested Parent Approved (you know they’re Award Winners!) and was hooked. Not only are the products of the highest quality, but they’re packaged attractively and have the most glorious marine-inspired fragrance as well.

Why I trust the products:

Developed with pure, effective advanced ingredients
Gentle enough for sensitive skin but highly effective
Protect from environmental damage
Critical maintenance of skin’s natural moisture barrier
Promote bonding between parent & baby

Why I love the products:

Packaging & products thoughtfully developed
Products that do “double duty” by having a dual use
Modern aesthetics & smart design
Specially formulated so small doses provide big results

Now that the kiddies are back to school, why not consider the cleansing towelettes travel pack? They’re the same great towelettes in a convenient, on-the-go format.

These soft, luxurious cleansing and soothing towelettes are effective enough to use nose to toes, yet gentle enough to use even on irritated or sensitive skin. This alcohol-free hypoallergenic formula contains our exclusive marine silk complex to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. Antioxidant vitamins E and B5 help protect from environmental damage and reinforce the skin’s natural defenses.

These wipes are the thickest, strongest and softest wipes you’ll ever encounter, hands down. Perfect for cleaning hands before snack time, tackling messy mouths, and with flu season around the corner, protecting the delicate skin around those tiny noses! I am thrilled that the cleansing towelettes are available in a travel pack – you’ll be sure to find them in my diaper bag.

(Actually, I’ve been using them all summer – to swipe away dirt from Ryder’s digging expeditions, to catch Baby Reid’s drool, and to freshen my own face and neck after an afternoon in the sun. I can literally find over 100 uses for this superb product. LOVE it.)

Click here for information and to purchase the MD Moms baby silk gentle all over clean cleansing towelettes travel pack.

Medela Freestyle Winner!

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Thanks to everyone who entered the Lena Loves… Medela Freestyle giveaway. I can honestly say having this breast pump on hand is one of the principal reasons that I stuck with breastfeeding. It helped establish my (now abundant) supply, provided options for nighttime feedings (thanks hubby!) and allowed me to be away from Baby Reid while still nourishing him with my own milk. LOVE it!

I’d also like to send hugs to everyone who offered breastfeeding/pumping tips. Some of my faves include:

thesehappydays said…
My best tip is to visit a lactation consultant if you are having issues. I am forever grateful to my public health nurse for pushing me to go – I thought I would figure it out on my own, but the advice and confidence of the lactation consultant improved things tremendously.

Amanda Schoonjans said…
My best bf tip is to get your husband involved! When you are bf in the middle of the night have him help by changing diapers and getting babe back to sleep so you can be ready to be up again in a couple hours:)

Meg said…
Don’t give up or try and think of a good reason why its not working, it takes time! After a couple weeks, it’ll be so easy!

Aimee Perez said…
My tip for new moms is to switch things up. Make sure you alternate sides with each feed, but also try different positions. That way the baby can empty all the milk ducts, to help you avoid mastitis.

pawsnhooves said…
My best advice, Keep trying!!! Eat and drink right. Get help if you need it :)

Kelsey said…
My Best pumping tip is to massage your breast first and get your milk flowing before you start to pump. I found this way I got a faster result and it didn’t hurt my breasts as much.

Kathryn Mitchell said…
My best breastfeeding tip is to put a small safety pin on your bra strap to help you remember which side to start with at the next feeding. Then switch the safety pin to the other side after each feeding.

Shannon H said…
Empty breasts fill faster than those that aren’t, so don’t worry about trying to “save” some for the next feed.

Deb said…
Use breast compressions to keep your baby awake at the breast. Maintaining a good flow of milk is essential to a good feed and will buy you more time between feeds.

Angèle said…
My best ‘breastfeeding’ tip : whether you’re pumping, nursing, or both – get your CALORIES in! and remember to drink LOTS of water – I found on days when I didn’t drink enough water, or if I skipped a meal, I didn’t feel as ‘full’.

Chrissy said…
My best pumping tip (if you want to increase your supply) is to express by hand for a few minutes after you think you’ve pumped yourself dry. You might be surprised by how much more you get… and it can increase your supply if you stick with it.

I’ve also collected your questions and will be forwarding them to a Medela lactation consultant. Answers will be posted shortly!

Now, without further ado…. the winner is Amanda Schoonjans! Congratulations!

Please send me an e-mail with your full contact details so that I may have the prize sent to you right away. Thanks to everyone who participated, and to Medela!

PTPA Fall Winners Announced!

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Just in time for back to school… the PTPA Fall 2010 Winners have been announced!

PTPA’s mission is to discover and appraise new products designed for children and families. They research new products and coordinate testing with parents. Award winning products are selected based on value, functionality, quality and appeal.

This season, some of the winners include:

AirCut Home Haircutter – The Aircut handheld haircutter is lightweight, compact, and designed to last through years of use. Hair is collected right inside the unit, making cleanup a snap. The 41 MPH motor keeps even the thickest hair from making a mess.

Petunia Pickle Bottom Baby Carrier – Made from Certified Organic Cotton that is machine washable, the carrier slips on like a t-shirt and buckles simply and securely into place. Secure and versatile design allows your little co-traveler to face snugly inward, or outward with a view on the world. Exclusive fashion-print exterior and signature Petunia stitch detailing.

IdeaPaint – IdeaPaint’s innovative dry-erase paint products transform smooth surfaces into borderless, durable, dry-erase canvases.

View all the winners here.

This season, I’ve definitely got my eye on IdeaPaint –
The family needs a better place to gather than in front of the TV. IdeaPaint can turn virtually anything you can paint into a high-performance dry-erase surface, giving your family a place to interact, communicate and fully explore your creativity. No matter where you use it, it can keep your family connected. Who knows, it may even help end the battle over the remote control.

How Cool!

Lena Loves… Medela Freestyle

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If you’re breastfeeding, or thinking of breastfeeding (assuming you’re a mommy-to-be), chances are you’ve read up on the benefits of expressing milk. The common reasons women pump are to:

– Relieve engorgement when milk comes in
– Collect milk for feedings when working or away from home
– Increase or maintain the milk supply

– Prevent painful engorgement which can lead to mastitis
– Provide breast milk for a hospitalized or sick baby
– Stimulate relactation or induce lactation in an adoptive mother

Source: What to Expect the First Year

I hope you’ve been following my series A Tale of Two Boobs. If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know that I made it my mission to breastfeed with Reid after I gave up too easily with Ryder. And while I’ve been successfully breastfeeding for 73 days (yes, I counted), it hasn’t always been easy – and I’m sure 99% of breastfeeding moms will say the same thing.

But there are ways to make it more manageable. My holy trinity? Determination (check), seeking the right help early on (check) and a high quality breast pump (check). And I LOVE my breast pump.

I was very fortunate to receive the Medela Freestyle hands free breast pump for review. For those in the know, this is the Cadillac of breast pumps. The Freestyle is Medela’s first hands-free, double-electric pump.

Features include:

– Daily use · double pump · electric
– True pumping mobility with hands-free option
– Rechargeable battery and ultra-lightweight motor
– Easy interaction with digital display, memory, timer and backlight
– More milk in less time with 2-Phase Expression technology
– Everything mom needs in a convenient bag – perfect for active moms
– Double pumping kit features SoftFit breastshields for massaging comfort
– All parts that come into contact with breastmilk are BPA/DEHP Free

Click here to see all the goodies that are included with the Freestyle.

Before I left the hospital, nurses suggested that I get my hands on a hospital grade breast pump to help stimulate my milk flow. Their recommendation? The Medela Symphony, of course. Even though I knew I had the Freestyle at home, I took their advice because I didn’t want to do anything to derail my efforts. I rented the Symphony for a week and figured I would take it from there.

At the end of the week, I was hesitant to let it go. My breast milk had come in fast and furious, and I credit pumping sessions with the Symphony for increasing my supply. However, when I compared the features of the two pumps, I realized that the Freestyle was on a level playing field due to it’s 2-Phase Expression Technology and Maximum Comfort Vacuum. So I said goodbye to the Symphony, ready to start a close relationship with the Medela Freestyle.

All I can say is WOW. The Freestyle is without doubt the answer to my prayers. Comfortable, easy to use and an expert at drawing out breast milk, I discovered with glee that I could express four (4) ounces of milk in just under ten minutes. Why I love it:

1. After sterilizing all the parts, I literally skimmed the instructions once before I was able to start pumping. It’s really that simple. The LCD screen and settings are clear and well placed. The memory button allows me to save my favourite pumping pattern for ease and efficiency for the next pumping session.

2. The Medela Freestyle is beyond comfortable. The pumping action very closely resembles the baby’s natural sucking rhythm thanks to the 2-Phase Expression. Babies change the way they suckle at a mother’s breast during breastfeeding. Initially, they suck rapidly to stimulate the milk ejection reflex (MER) and induce milk “let-down”. This phase is referred to as “Stimulation”. Once the milk starts flowing, they settle into a more relaxed sucking speed. This phase is called “Expression”. Medela pioneered this technology with the Symphony, and now this innovation is available in the three further models – the Freestyle, Pump in Style Advanced and Swing.

3. The pump is a champion. With electric double pumping action, it literally takes me less time to express a 4 oz feed than it would take me to wash, sterilize and prepare a bottle using powdered formula. And there is nothing more satisfying than seeing those bottles fill up with nourishment manufactured by mommy!

4. It’s tiny. The breast pump unit honestly fits into every purse I own – and the palm of my hand. Perfect for working mommies, when travelling, or even at home (who wants to have a huge contraption in the corner of a room?) And while it’s not whisper quiet, you can definitely carry on a normal conversation, watch TV, or even have baby sleep next to you while pumping (I find the rhythmic sounds actually help to calm Reid).

5. The Medela Freestyle has helped keep me sane. I can now leave the house for a few hours, knowing that there will be breast milk on hand for Reid. And, for those times that he cluster feeds throughout the night, daddy can administer a feeding thanks to frozen and thawed breast milk that I’ve previously pumped (my freezer is stocked with a 2-3 day supply – particularly handy for emergencies or just in case of illness).

At $400 the breast pump is not inexpensive (Cadillacs never are). Here’s my advice – rent the Symphony while you determine if breastfeeding works for you. The Symphony is the only breast pump which allows multiple users – all other pumps (including the Freestyle) are single user only. Therefore if you purchase the Freestyle off the bat and don’t follow through, you could be out a chunk of change.

HOWEVER, if breastfeeding is a go and you plan on expressing milk on a frequent basis – you don’t have to think twice. The PTPA Award Winning Medela Freestyle is for you. It is 100% Lena-Approved! Click here to learn more about this revolutionary product.

I am so very lucky to have received this item for review – and I’m happy to share some of that luck with you!

August 1st through 7th happens to be World Breastfeeding Week, and to celebrate, I’m giving away a Medela Freestyle (value $400)!

Prize includes: Attractive tote bag, Hands-Free Kit, 2 bra adapters, 2 replacement bra adapters – universal, 2 replacement bra adapters – hook & eye, Support belt & extension, 2 – 24 mm SoftFit breastshields, Breastshield Spare Parts Kit, 2 breastshield bodies; 2 membranes; 2 back caps, 1 set of tubing, 4 – 5 oz breastmilk bottles, lids & travel cap, Wide base slow flow nipple, Rechargeable lithium-ion battery, Power cord & charger, Contoured ice pack, Removable cooler carrier, Instructions & quick start card, Breastfeeding Information Guide

Now Medela has graciously offered me the chance to sit down with one of their lactation consultants for a Q&A session, so to enter this giveaway you can:

Post a question about breastfeeding/pumping you’d like me to ask
-or-
Tell us why you’d like to win the Medela Freestyle

(I’ll random pick 10 questions to pose to the lactation consultant.)

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment to claim your extra entry. Simply:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena!
(2) Offer your best breastfeeding and/or pumping tip
(3) Tweet about this giveaway (here’s a tiny URL for you: http://tinyurl.com/32bhfn3)

I’ll draw for a winner at the end of August. Special thanks to Medela, and good luck everyone!

A Tale of Two Boobs

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Chapter One.

This is the first of a series of posts detailing my journey with breastfeeding. I can promise you two things – I will talk about my personal experience and I will go into detail. If that makes you uncomfortable, stop reading now! Just hit “Home” and scroll up or down until you find a lighter topic :)

So here’s the story. Three months before Reid was born, I began researching everything to do with breastfeeding. Lactation consultants. Latches. Feeding positions. Help. I was bound and determined to breastfeed my baby-to-be.

His big brother Ryder did not enjoy the same privilege. Through a combination of innocence and ignorance, I simply didn’t prepare myself for the total and selfless commitment associated with putting the baby to the boob. Sure, I paid attention in prenatal classes. But learning about BF’ing ahead of time is like watching a cooking show at 2 a.m. Everything looks simple until the raw beef is in front of you (wow, even I think that’s a strange metaphor). But I’m sure you know what I mean – it’s only when you’re actually in the situation that you either sink or swim.

Here’s my list of excuses:

1. I was discharged from the hospital just 24 hours after Ryder was born, so there I was- a first time mother, who had no idea how to hold a baby, let alone take care of one. I was showed all of 4 times how to put the baby to the breast, and while it looked so simple in the hospital with the nurse guiding the baby, at home on my own was a different story. It hurt. He broke off and fell asleep more often than not. I couldn’t successfully latch him on the left breast. It sucked.

2. Speaking of the left breast, it was the bane of my existence. With a slightly larger areola and thicker texture than the right, Ryder simply slid off every time I tried to have him latch. After several fruitless attempts, he would cry in frustration. Then I would cry – and proceed to dump him back on the right. My left breast became engorged to the point that I leaned to the left when I walked (well, not really, but you get the point).

3. Ryder was born with a cephalhematoma, which is essentially a bump on the noggin. Although it didn’t occur to us at the time, he must have had one hell of a headache. And as such, he was more interested in sleeping than nursing. Wouldn’t you want to sleep off a hangover? So Ryder continued to lose weight, and I began to panic. The formula was in my house, I could give it to him. I could nourish him. I could feed him. So I did. Bye bye breast milk.

So that’s why Ryder was breastfeed for a total of four days, and I went on to experience postpartum guilt and depression for at least four months after. I felt like I had failed my son, and myself. There were resources available to me; I could have made it work. But I chose the right route for me at the time in order to keep my own sanity and make sure my baby was nourished.

Looking back, sure, I could have done things differently, but I no longer beat myself up over the decisions I made. Ryder is a healthy, active little boy with a tough-as-nails immune system (who despite warnings, has only been sick ONCE in two years with ONE ear infection, BF’ing Nazis be damned) and he’ll grow up knowing that his mommy did her best with what she was given.

But that doesn’t mean I can’t start all over again.

This time around, I was prepared. I all but demanded to see a lactation consultant while I was in the operating room (at which the nurse laughed at me, telling me to wait until they handed me my baby). Once I was wheeled to my room to recover, I refused to put Reid to my breast without a nurse present, because I wanted feedback on positioning, technique, etc. In short, I wanted to succeed. Was it easier this time? Hell no.

To be continued…

Lena Loves… Baby & Toddler Nutritional Health

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When I was first came across this nutritional guide at the PTPA office, I knew I wanted it. At the time, Ryder had been going through a picky-eater phase (well, he’s always been a picky eater, except he’d decided to incorporate food throwing and head banging into his arsenal of refusals). At my wit’s end, I was so happy to take the book home to evaluate, hoping it would provide me with some much needed suggestions.

And you know what? The advice was superb. With an entire chapter devoted to picky eaters, I slowly began to realize that I wasn’t necessarily doing anything wrong, nor was there anything wrong with Ryder. He was eating as much as he wanted to, and I had to re-think my perception on “quantity of food” vs. “quality.” He is a growing, happy, sometimes too energetic little boy, and he certainly knows how to regulate his own appetite. So I relaxed my sergeant approach, incorporated many of the suggestions for promoting healthy eating habits found in the book, and both Ryder and I are now friends again at meal times.

The chapter on picky eaters is just a small part of the guide. With over 700 pages focusing on breast/bottle feeding, starting solid foods and first year feeding, transition from bottles to cups, specific feeding and nutritional issues and more, the Baby & Toddler Feeding and Nutritional Health Guide will become your bible for all things that go into your child’s tummy.

The author, Dr. Maurice Levy, is a Pediatrician with 30 years of day-to-day medical experience in hospitals and a pediatric primary care office. A former Chief of Pediatrics (1994-1999) and an active staff member at North York Branson Hospital, Toronto – including multiple responsibilities on hospitalized newborns, infants and children and dealing with staff pediatricians along with a multitude of health problems to include nutrition, development and more – he wrote the guide as a one-stop reference for all parents who have questions or concerns about their baby’s nutritional health (which would be every parent, I’m sure!)

ABOUT THE GUIDE

Currently, there are no books available that provide detailed information solely on feeding and nutrition for babies, toddlers and young children. Parents raise many questions and concerns regarding their child’s feeding and nutrition, however many times, these go unanswered due to the limited amount of time or knowledge of health professionals. Unfortunately, feeding and nutrition for young babies and children is not well taught in medical schools, so often times, health professionals bear much of the parent’s guessing as well.

The common difficulties parents face in trying to find practical information about feeding and nutrition have inspired Dr. Levy to write a PRACTICAL book for parents; one that provides all the answers to daily parental concerns and provide one’s baby with THE BEST START TO LIFE!

THE BREAKDOWN

This book covers feeding and nutritional aspects right from birth until the school-aged child. It begins with issues and solutions associated with breast and/or bottle feeding (e.g. which to choose, how to breast or bottle feed properly and how much, feeding by schedule or on-demand, which bottle, nipples and formulas to use, etc), weaning and how to overcome bottle rejection. Many parents have many concerns regarding solid food introduction (when and what to introduce, how much, etc), homemade versus store-bought prepared foods, specific food refusals, picky eaters, and much more. In addition, food allergies are discussed with respect to management and replacement options to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Chapters on growth characteristics and charts are included along with failure to thrive and obesity sections to help your child develop optimally. Recommended portion sizes and activity levels appropriate for specific ages along with various fun sample menus and recipes are included for easing food acceptance.

Other topics include stool characteristics and its significance, constipation, crying and gastroesophageal reflux and its relation to feeding, along with mineral/vitamin deficiencies, vegetarians, oral health, water, pacifier and thumb sucking, hiccups, burping, and much, much more are included in this practical guide for parents!

I am so excited to have this book in preparation for Ryder’s baby brother. In reviewing the chapters, almost half of what is covered was asked by me to Ryder’s pediatrician when he was a baby. Imagine how much time and frustration I could have spared had I known about this guide! It think it should be on the bookshelf of every parent who has a baby and/or toddler.

You can purchase the book in Canada through Amazon.ca or in the US through Amazon.com. The book retails for just $29.95 (worth every penny) and is a wonderful gift or hand-me-down to other parents after you’ve reaped the benefits.

Click here to learn more about the Baby & Toddler Feeding and Nutritional Health guide.

Here’s a FABULOUS giveaway for you!

Dr. Maurice Levy has generously offered one Listen to Lena! reader the chance to win a Baby & Toddler Feeding and Nutritional Health guide! To enter, simply take a look at the Table of Contents, and tell us which chapter(s) would be of help to you! I’ll draw for a winner on Sunday.

Thanks to Dr. Levy for sponsoring the giveaway, and good luck everybody!

My Fabulous New Job!

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I would have to say the hardest part about being a stay at home mom is keeping up my employable skills – reasoning that most employers don’t care that I have mastered the art of swaddling, know all the words to “Hush Little Baby” and have taught my little guy to strike a Zoolander pose (which actually has me falling off my chair laughing each time).

So Mike and I decided that I should definitely look into a part time job, both to keep my brain active and to supplement my Christmas shopping :) But what to do? Certainly not anywhere near the woods of my previous career (do YOU see me as a Financial Services Business Analyst?) Ha, I think not. Being off for almost two years has definitely convinced me I need a change. So what then? Something that I love doing… that will excite me… that will keep me motivated…. that I enjoy.

So it’s no surprise that when PTPA posted for a Social Media Mom, I jumped at the opportunity to work with them. And I got the job!

Starting today, I will be PTPA’s social media representative on their blog, Twitter and Facebook. I’ll be keeping all their readers in the loop about great contest announcements, award winning products, parenting tips and, of course, hot deals!

What does this mean for Listen to Lena! readers? Well, with respect to my blog, it’s business as usual; I’m not going anywhere. But, for the parents who take the time to stop by, you’re in for a treat – I’ll have the inside scoop on PTPA’s contests, will be partnering with many of the award winning products to bring fab giveaways to my blog, and will have up-to-the minute info about the hottest new brands!

So if you can’t get enough of the parenting deals here, be sure to follow my updates by becoming a fan of PTPA on Facebook, following my updates on Twitter, and reading my posts on the PTPA blog! And here’s the first great contest for ya – when PTPA reaches 500 fans on Facebook, they’ll randomly draw for a $100 gift card from GAP!

I’ll be all over cyberspace for PTPA, and would love to run into some L2L readers on different social platforms. (In case you’re wondering, this is a work from home position, so I’m now a stay at home mom/blogging guru/Social Media Mom/happy mommy.)

Thanks, as always, for stopping by – and hope to see more of ya’ll soon!