Stephanie Sheaffer writes about books, babies, travel, food, and philanthropy.
Expecting a baby or know someone who is? Take a look at the Mommy/Delivery BFFLBag®. Designed by Dr. Elizabeth Chabner Thompson (an oncologist and mom of four), it is described as "the ultimate hospital bag, providing comfort, convenience, and caring for women preparing for childbirth." The bag, which retails for $120, is designed to be used for either C-section or traditional birth. Contents include: axillapilla® pillow for recovery and nursing support a collapsible water … [Read more...]
"I don't know if I can do this," I whisper it into the blurry room. The contraction begins to rise and I scream, sing, breath, and pray simultaneously. With a final push, the crescendo, her body slips through mine. I catch her and bring her to my chest, elated. Three natural childbirths later and I have no regrets. Each time, I was afraid. Each time, the baby slid out into my arms and the pain evaporated, replaced by pure relief and indescribable joy. Please note as you read this article … [Read more...]
For each of my three labors, I chose pain over pain medication. Each time, I was afraid. For my second and third babies, tears welled in my eyes as labor started because I knew the great agony that lie ahead...and yet I also knew the great reward. I held fast to the promise of a sweet baby nestled on my chest. Each time, it was completely worth it. There are many "classes" that help mothers prepare for labor. Although some of them may be worthwhile, it is important to note that … [Read more...]
I Wonder: Do women ever stop thinking about birth once they have experienced it? I gave birth to my firstborn in 2006 and my second in 2009 - and both experiences have shaped me, defined me...in so many ways. Almost every day, I think back to those days - remembering the excitement, the pain, the fear, the trust, and then...the overwhelming love, the magic of seeing a baby's face for the very first time - MY baby. It's really indescribable on so many levels. I feel at a loss for words even … [Read more...]
At just over one million residents, Richmond is a very similarly sized city to my hometown (Tucson, AZ). It is big enough to offer culture and commerce without being hustle-and-bustle like the big city. Richmond is a city of history and diversity. We were only there for a few short days so we didn’t get [...]
