Baby aWEARness

A Bit About Breastfeeding: Manual Pumping vs. The Breastpump

2011-10-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

In my years of practice, both as a midwife and as a Lactation Consultant, I have always advised mothers to learn to hand express their breast milk. One of the reasons for this is that doing so aids latching-on by newborns and increases milk production and flow.

A very recent research article has confirmed this practice. A small study published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood showed that expressing breast milk by hand in the first days after birth is better for boosting breastfeeding rates among poorly feeding newborns than the use of a breast pump.

The results are based on the findings from 68 mothers whose newborns were latching on to the nipple or sucking poorly 12 to 36 hours after birth. The women were randomly assigned to either 15 minutes of using a breast pump or 15 minutes of manual breast milk expression in a bid to encourage their babies to breastfeed.

Afterwards, the amount of milk produced and suckled, pain levels, and confidence in breastfeeding were assessed. Breastfeeding rates were then monitored when the babies were one week, one month and two months old. By the age of two months, breastfeeding rates were higher among those babies whose mothers first expressed their breast milk by hand than those who first used a breast pump; almost all the mothers (97%) assigned to manual expression were breastfeeding compared with just under 73% of those assigned to the breast pump.

Most who used a breast pump at two months said they did so to store milk for occasions when they would be unable to feed their child in person. Just 15% said they did so to boost their milk supply. But mothers who expressed manually said they were more comfortable being seen to do so than mothers who used a breast pump.

The authors point out that breast pumping is a fast, efficient method of milk expression, once the milk supply is established. They strongly suggested, "Providers should consider teaching hand expression instead of pumping to mothers of healthy term newborns feeding poorly after birth, in cases where either method of expression might be appropriate."

A Lactation Consultant can advise on manual hand expression of breast milk and it is important to get this education as early as possible after giving birth, before any breast feeding issues arise.

(To make an appointment with our boobie guru, and hear more sage words from this wise woman, call Lani at 226-9063)

Keeping it Simple

2011-07-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

I am big believer in keeping things simple. You'll never see me doing one leg squats, balancing on a Bosu board, doing a bicep curl with one hand and a shoulder raise with the other. That's more trouble than it's worth. I try to apply the same uncomplicated philosophy to what I eat and the dietary recommendations I make to my clients. Truthfully, any type of diet can work in the short term; how short that term is really depends on how restrictive the diet, how much effort it takes to stick with it, and how well it integrates into your life and the life of the other people you have to feed. However, yo-yo dieting takes a toll on your metabolism, and makes you feel terrible both physically and emotionally.

I believe that if you eat a well-balanced, properly portioned diet of whole grains, healthy fats, lean proteins, and tons fresh fruits and vegetables you'll have little difficulty reaching and maintaining your health goals. Buy local when possible; the food is actually more nutritious when it's fresh! Avoid things packaged things and products with ingredients you can't pronounce. Don't buy in to the supplement scheme; unless you have a specific deficiency or issue synthesizing a certain nutrient your generally wasting your money. You absorb nutrients much better in food form than from a pill, and food tastes much better anyway. If you want some specific action steps:

Don't drink your calories. The average American consumes around 450 calories  in beverages a day, and liquid calories don't really contribute to satiety. Cut out soda,  desserts masquerading as coffee, smoothies, and juice drinks. Even 100% juice contains  calories and a ton of sugar. Reach for water instead, and try to drink at least 2 liters a day. 
Watch your portion sizes. It doesn't take a Harvard research study to conclude that  portion sizes are huge and so are our waistlines. Familiarize yourself with what a  standard portion size really is. Even things that are healthy can become a problem if you  overeat them. Brown rice is great, but if you have 3 cups of it with your stir fry, that's  about 650 calories in rice alone. An occasional glass of wine may be beneficial for heart health; three glasses every evening with dinner caps you r day off with about 375 non-nutritional calories. 
Eat some protein at every meal or snack. Protein slows down your digestive process  so that you can feel fuller longer on the same number of calories than if you were only  eating carbohydrates. Think about this: which seems more satisfying, 4oz of chicken  breast or a slice of white bread? Meat and fish aren't the only good sources of  protein: cottage cheese, eggs, edamame, tofu, beans, nuts, seeds, plain Greek yogurt  are all packed with protein.

Include at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables in your day. Juice doesn't count  here! Think of fruits and vegetables as low calorie plate-fillers that will fill you up  without filling you out. Try to dedicate about half of your plate space to vegetables  at every meal (can you even sneak some in at breakfast?). As an extra bonus, fresh  foods like these contain numerous antioxidants and vitamins that help you look youthful both inside and out.  
Avoid the white stuff. White rice, white flour, and white sugar (and alcohol!) all break down very  quickly in your body, leading to spikes in blood sugar that cause insulin (a fat storing  hormone) to be released. Spiking blood sugar can also later cause fatigue, sugar cravings, inflammation in the body, and eventually even diabetes. Stick to fiber-rich whole  grain products like whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa, and rolled oats to help you  stay slim and stabilize your blood sugar.

Amy Forsyth is a personal trainer specializing in women's fitness and weight loss. She is currently running ladies-only morning boot camp programs across Oahu in Manoa Valley, Aina Haina, and Mililani. For more information and class schedules visit www.honolulupersonaltrainer.com. Mention Baby Awearness and receive a $15 discount off any August session.

World Breastfeeding Week at Baby A

2011-07-27T19:22:00.000-07:00

Join us to support moms who breastfeed the world over! All are welcome to learn about the power and beauty of how nature designed us to feed our babies. This is a great time for moms to feel renewed and encouraged in their decisions to include breastfeeding into their parenting and family lifestyle as well as for expecting moms to get questions answered or learn where they can go to for local communities that support breastfeeding. All discussion groups are free and held at the Baby Awearness store. For more information, call 988-0010.

Help Baby A Support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Honolulu!

2011-07-08T19:40:00.000-07:00

The staff at Baby A is participating in Big Brothers Big Sisters' upcoming fundraiser event Bowl For Kids' Sake in August. Through our bowling team, we are collecting donations to help support the awesome mentoring programs that benefit Hawaii's youth and families.

If you would like to help us reach our goal of raising $600, please make an online donation on our Baby Awearness page, or stop by the store and drop some love into our collection jar.

Join us for story time

2011-07-07T11:48:00.000-07:00

Monday July 11 at 10:30 a.m.

In launching a new line of board books for kids, we are offering a free 20-minute story time by the staff at Baby Awearness.

Published by local publisher BeachHouse Publishing (an imprint of Mutual), all of these stories are written and illustrated by local talent. From learning your 1-2-3-s to surfing the high waves, these stories capture the magic of growing up in Hawaii. Perfect for children ages 0 to 5 years.

A fun series teaching all the shapes, colors, numbers, opposites, and textures found in Hawaii's waters

Only in Hawaii do you find geckos jumping on the bed! A cute story to lure any child to sleep

A young boy learns the power of imagination along with his desire to surf the high waves.

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture

2011-06-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

Wellness in the First Year
Wednesday July 6 at 6:00 p.m.

Chiropractic Wellness Practitioner, Dr. Eric Schaid, speaks about creating a sustainable quality of life for you and your baby. With less than 1% of hospitals having chiropractors on staff, new moms need to learn about the benefits of chiropractic care for their children. Dr. Eric will also apply the concepts of eating well, moving well, and thinking well during the first year of life.

Dr. Eric Bio
With a background in personal training and bodybuilding, Dr. Eric Schaid has always had a passion for health and fitness. After graduating Valedictorian from Palmer College of Chiropractic with a Doctorate in Chiropractic, Dr. Eric pursued courses in pediatric care, wellness, and lifestyle management. Dr. Eric has a passion for educating and empowering families to create healthier lives through the Chiropractic Lifestyle which includes eating well, moving well, and thinking well. The most distinguishing factor about Vitality is that we utilize state of the art technology, certified by the Space Foundation and used by NASA, for evaluating our communities’ health.

Broccoli Cheese Soup

2011-06-04T18:55:00.000-07:00

Growing up one of my fav restaurants served the best broccoli cheese soup. Every year, when I return to Houston, I eat there...Until now - because the recipe below BLOWS my hometown's soup out of the kettle!

I added cauliflower because I am trying to eat more non-diary forms of calcium. I swear even the most suspicious children will not be able to taste it if you puree it finely enough.

Hope you enjoy and let me know your thoughts!

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Serves 5

Ingredients
* 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1 cup yellow onions
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ½ teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
* ½ teaspoon minced garlic
* ½ teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
* 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 4 cups veggie broth
* 1 cup pureed cauliflower (steam, puree until fine/smooth)
* 1 head of fresh broccoli (finely diced)
* ¼ cup heavy cream
* ½ cup reduced fat milk
* 1 ¼ cups shredded sharp Cheddar
* Croutons, for garnish

Directions
In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, thyme, onions, salt and pepper, stirring, until soft, 3 minutes. Add the flour and cook, stirring until the mixture is well blended and smells fragrant, 2 minutes.

Slowly add the veggie stock, whisking constantly, and bring to a boil.

Add pureed cauliflower

Reduce the heat and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Add the broccoli and cook, stirring, until tender, for 10 minutes.

Remove the pot from the heat and puree with a hand-held immersion blender. (Alternatively, in batches, puree in a blender or food processor and return to the pot.)

Add the milk and cream. Bring to bare simmer to heat through. Add the cheese and cook over low heat, stirring, until melted.

Remove from the heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Sprinkle croutons over the top of the soup and serve immediately.

Croutons:

* 1 cup 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubed olive bagette
* 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
* 2 tablespoons finely diced parsely and basil

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Place the bread in a medium bowl and toss with oil, garlic, and herbs. Spread evenly on a small baking sheet and bake, stirring twice, until light golden brown on top, about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool slightly before serving.

Yield: 2 cups

Mililani Bootcamp!

2011-06-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Ladies,

For those of you who've attended Radical Homemakers or visited the store during events, Amy Forsyth is a wonderful personal trainer who I have worked with personally. She's not just in wicked good shape and super motivating, she thinks locally and sustainably, which you know I love. Since many of you live in Central Oahu, I wanted to give you the heads up on the new classes her company is putting on. Even better - I've asked Amy to give all my Baby A mamas a discount. Hope you'll consider attending.

Outdoor workout programs are no longer for townies only. Honolulu Personal Trainer has brought lady boot camp to Mililani! Each four week session of this women-only program combines strength training, cardio, balance, core work, flexibility exercises, and plyometrcis to deliver dramatic fat loss, energy gains, and chronic pain reduction. All ages and physical abilities are welcome; exercises can be ramped up or down so that classes can accommodate everyone from the marathoner to the new exerciser. Class will run Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:30am to 9:30am in Mililani. There are also morning class options available in Manoa Valley and Aina Haina. Please contact Amy Forsyth at amy@honolulupersonaltrainer.com or 808-783-2558 for more information or check out the summer schedules at www.honolulupersonaltrainer.com/fitness-bootcamp/

Mention Baby Awearness to receive $10 the retail price of $180 for 12 classes. Prorated options are available for sessions already in progress.

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture: Lamaze

2011-05-31T23:21:00.000-07:00

Wednesday June 1
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Come to our free healthy pregnancy lecture and learn all about the Lamaze course for couples led by Piper Lovemore, local doula and natural birth advocate.

Next class series: Monday evenings from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m., starting June 6th

Discover how you and your partner can experience a blissful, fearless, and powerful birth of your desires!

Lamaze can provide these powerful tools of reference regarding a woman's labor and delivery:

learning how to reframe our thinking about birth
learning how to experience birth beyond fear
breathing exercises and insight into addressing labor pains and concerns
and ultimately gaining the tools to clear any preconceived negative influences on the birth experience.

Let us help you pave the way for an empowered, in-tuned birth experience!

Your Keiki Can Sign presents Sing, Play, Sign! Classes

2011-05-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

  FREE Preview Class: Friday, May 27 at 10:30 a.m.
June 3 – July 22, Fridays at 10:30 a.m. at Baby Awearness in Manoa Marketplace  
  
Babies Crawl Before They Walk, and Sign Before They Talk 
Enjoy these many benefits by learning how to sign with your little one! 

Children and parents bond together while learning true American Sign Language (ASL) vocabulary
 Improve early communication and learning skills in pre-verbal infants and children to age 4 
Baby Signing Time materials used in this course feature a fun, multi-sensory approach to learning such as visual cues, catchy original tunes, ASL and other activities

Cost: 8 weeks of 45-minute sessions for $100, or $15 per drop-in class
Pre-registration required for all classes

Course led by  Akie Kagawa Baby Signing Time Instructor, Certified by the Signing Time Academy 
Call: (808) 258-8588 or email: akie@signingtimeacademy.com 

Come sign with us!

Keiki Earth Day Line Up

2011-04-20T22:25:00.000-07:00

Aloha Mamas,

As you plan your weekend, please take a look at our Event timeline. Its going to be a fun filled day!

10:30-10:50 Kachuzzi the Clown

10:30-12:30 Face painting with Kiko

11:00-12:00 Uncle Wayne (2 - 20 min sets @ 11 and 11:40)

11:30-12:30 Foodscapes Herb Gardening - Mini seedling green houses from recycled materials!

12:30-1:30: Re-Use Hawaii Craft time with Manny Pangalinan

1:30-2:00pm: Bess Press Book Reading with Aunty Karyl

Hope to see your there!

Ashley

Solving the Breastpump Mystery

2011-04-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 7th at 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Led by: Pat Bilyk, IBCLC
Cost: $20/person or $35/couple

Have you ever asked yourself....

*Do I really need a breastpump?
*What is the best breastpump for me?
*How do I know the best breastpump for my specific situation?
*How do I use a breastpump?

Then this class is for you!

Join Pat Bilyk*, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) as she shares her expertise on the "hows" and "whys" of the breastpumps presently on the market plus go over the top and most popular pumps on the market today.

*Pat Bilyk is an IBCLC, masters prepared nurse who has practiced in Hawaii
for 27 years. Her experiences have been as a Lactation Consultant at Kapiolani and Kaiser Medical Centers, Executive Director at Hawaii Mother's Milk, Sales Rep for Medela and a Lactation Consultant in her own business-Healthy New Beginnings.

Please call 988-0010 or e-mail lani@babyawearness.com to RSVP

Post-Partum Rejuvenation

2011-04-14T00:19:00.000-07:00

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture

Wednesday, May 4th
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Led by: Tara Mattes, LAc

Cost: FREE!

Join Tara Mattes, LAc and certified doula as she shares her wisdom and expertise on post-partum care.

The Postpartum Period is a vital time for a woman's present and future health. It is often considered the fourth stage of pregnancy as it is an essential time to heal, nourish and bond with her newborn baby. The mother's health and state of being is the foundation for building a new or growing family, but in this fast-paced modern world it is often the most neglected. This lecture will be about what all traditional cultures have known and practiced since the beginning of time; the importance of postpartum care and recovery. Understanding these universal and time tested traditions, we can adapt and apply them in a way that fits to our modern lives.

In the lecture, we will examine cover topics such as perineal care, nourishing foods, rest, warm therapy, proper support, mental and emotional well being, breastfeeding and cultivating energy. The aim is to best prepare mothers and/or their caretakers for the postpartum period that creates a positive experience and healthy start to a new life.

Tara Mattes is a licensed acupuncturist, certified doula, and certified detox counselor. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Pre-medical Studies from University of Colorado. She later studied in Hawaii under Taoist Master Chang Yi Hsiang at the Tai Hsuan College of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. Her training in Chinese Medicine focuses on qi gong, acupuncture, herbal medicine and Taoist philosophy and arts. When not serving her patients, she enjoys receiving acupuncture treatments, dancing, hiking, swimming, and playing with her daughters.

TO RSVP for the lecture: e-mail lani@babyawearness.com

Book and Toy Exchange

2011-04-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

Save time, money and reduce clutter by bringing your gently-used and loved children's books and toys to our BOOK & TOY EXCHANGE held during Keiki Earth Day.

How it works:
The idea is to give books and toys your family no longer uses in exchange for "new" books and toys your family may want. Bring your items for advance drop-off at Baby Awearness during store hours from April 18 - 21. You will be put on a list and given a bag.

On Saturday April 23, during our Keiki Earth Day festivities, you may peruse through our exchange tables to fill your bag and teach your children the joy of recycling.

Guidelines:
Wooden, nontoxic, eco-friendly toys and puzzles -- no plastic or stuffed animals!
Toys must be unbroken and in working condition with all pieces intact
Toys & books must be clean
Books must not have ripped or missing pages

If you have questions about whether a toy is eligible for the exchange, please call the store first. Leftover toys and books at the end of the event will be donated to BAX and/or community nonprofit organizations benefitting children.

A Must-Know for All Working Moms!

2011-04-05T23:21:00.000-07:00

Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace and the New Health Care Law Regulations
Thursday, April 14th at 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Led by Pat Bilyk, RN, IBCLC

Cost: $20 per person / $35 per couple

Offered for the first time, this incredibly important and relevant presentation will cover all the essential issues working moms wanting to breastfeed need to know. Pat Bilyk, a seasoned lactation consultant, will share how women can influence their work environments to make it a more breastfeeding-friendly place, in addition to instilling the confidence to do so through informed rights and choices.

Learn about

What is a Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace?
How to plan to return to work
The New Health Care Law Provisions for working, breastfeeding women, their rights, and their worksite.

Partners are strongly encouraged to attend.

Pat Bilyk is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, masters-prepared nurse who has practiced in Hawaii for over 27 years. Pat has specialized in breastfeeding in Hawaii for nearly 30 years and her experience as a lactation consultant includes helping moms at Kapiolani and Kaiser Medical Centers, as Executive Director of Hawaii Mother's Milk, a Medela sales rep, and through her own private practice, Healthy New Beginnings.

Nicky Naoko Lawnsby, Baby Awearness's full-time, in-store lactation consultant, will also be present. Nicky is an IBCLC certified Lactation Consultant and has over 20 years of experience in midwifery, breastfeeding, and women's health.

To RSVP, please contact 988-0010 or lani@babyawearness.com

Coming up on May 7th: Solving the Breast Pump Mystery ~ a workshop on tips and troubleshooting breastfeeding and pumping issues

Kale Pita Pizza

2011-04-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

Last week, at our Radical Homemakers Reading Group, I shared my easy, 30 minute Kale Pita Pizza Recipe. Although I love to cook dinner for my family, there are some nights when dinner is best when its made in under 30 minutes. Rather than reverting back to my college days and making a frozen pizza, these kale pita pizzas are made from fresh ingredients and I promise - the whole family will love them.

I've made the receipe as a CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE. for the picky toddlers, take the pureed route. Kids love dipping, so if you're open to a bit of a mess, let them dip in their own little dish of baba ganoush.

Ingredients:

4 Whole wheat pitas
Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups
Feta or Ricotta Salata – ½ cup
Kale – 1 cup
Garlic – one clove
¼ cup finely diced onion
Cherry or Grape tomatoes – ½ cup cut in half, lengthwise
Salt pepper
Olive oil

Prep time: 15 minutes.

Baba Ganoush – Locally, Olive Tree Café in Kahala has the BEST baba ganoush – but if you’re looking to make your own, its easy.

Preheat Oven to 350.
Rub pita with olive oil. Set aside.

Sautee garlic and onion in olive oil on medium heat until slightly browned. Add in kale and ricotta salata until kale is semi-wilted (2 minutes).

FOR KIDS: Once kale is sautéed, puree in blender. This way they won’t be able to pick out the kale chunks. Spread the kale puree on the pita as though it were pesto or pizza sauce. If your child is notoriously anti-greens, start with less.)

FOR ADULTS: Layer mozzarella cheese, kale/ricotta salata, and tomatoes on top of pita.

Bake for 20 minutes until browned.

Now a recipe usually ends with a pic of the finished product - but in this case - the product was too delicious to take a photo!

Keiki Earth Day!

2011-04-04T19:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday April 23rd, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. **FREE**

Baby Awearness will be hosting its Annual Keiki Earth Day to celebrate our planet, our children, and living green!

The event will be on Saturday April 23rd from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and offers a free fun-filled day for the entire family. Join us as we sing and make music with Uncle Wayne, recycle with a book-and-toy exchange, enjoy a healthy snack-making demo by radical homemaker Ashley Lukens, as well as various DIY craft and skills sharing activities including recycled container gardening and toy-making.

Local publisher Bess Press will also present storytelling hour and showcase their new season's line-up of books with eco-friendly themes and stories.

There will be activities for adults too. Experts will be on hand to educate you on cloth diapering, baby wearing/sling techniques, preparing healthy meals and more. Enjoy the store's natural parenting resource center filled with eco-friendly educational materials and money saving tips.

For more information contact the store 808.988.0010 or visit www.babyawearness.com

All About Macrobiotics

2011-03-21T10:52:00.000-07:00

by Leslie Ashburn

Macrobiotics is a flexible and practical approach to living based on using the world’s healthiest foods and traditional lifestyle practices to achieve wholeness, balance, and harmony in all dimensions of our lives. Food is energy and helps us create and become who we are. Macrobiotics is not a set of rules. It’s about personal power and choices, recognizing that each individual has the ultimate ability to decide how to apply these dietary principles and becomes responsible for everything that is put into one’s mouth and body. Everyone is different and no one set of standards or rules will apply to an individual condition. It’s important to make connections between what we eat and how we feel. With reflection, we can begin to empower ourselves to live better and healthier lives.

Emphasis is placed on:

eating a wide variety of foods grown locally, organically, and in season
utilizing a wide variety of simple cooking techniques
centering one’s diet on plant-based, unprocessed, unrefined foods
avoiding chemicals, pesticides, and other non-traditional methods of preparation

There are many benefits to a whole foods diet.

We develop strong mental, physical, and emotional health.

Studies show that a diet centered on plant-based foods improves blood sugar control, weight loss, and cardiovascular health, reduces cancer risk, and minimizes food addictions, to name just a few diet and lifestyle related items.
Eating consciously is good for the environment, farmers, and local economy.
Reducing intake of animal food reduces our carbon footprint.
Eating locally is more sustainable; besides being fresher, it supports local farmers and the local economy.
Eating organically is good for maintaining healthy ecosystems and protects the Earth, farmers, their children, and the local community from dangerous chemicals.
Eating seasonally keeps us harmonized with nature like traditional societies have practiced for thousands of years.

We know ourselves better

Practicing macrobiotics is not about following a rigid set of rules. It’s about making conscious connections between diet and lifestyle, and then how we feel as a result, and deciding what type of life we’d like to lead. It’s about flexibly adapting day to day to help us live our best possible life.

Basics for the kitchen

A person enjoying macrobiotic principles fills his or her kitchen with a wide variety of whole grains, beans and bean products, land and sea vegetables, fresh fruit, nuts, seeds and natural condiments such as good quality oils, sea salt, shoyu, miso, brown rice vinegar, umeboshi vinegar, and natural sweeteners like brown rice syrup, amasake, and barley malt.
Cooking utensils typically include a variety of items such as stainless steel and earthen ware pots, a grater, pressure cooker, knife, steamer basket, mesh strainer, and bamboo mats.
Cooking techniques may include raw, steaming, blanching, boiling, sautéing, deep frying, pan frying, pressing, pickling, pressure cooking and baking

To learn hands-on techniques in preparing delicious macrobiotic foods, consider signing up for Chef Leslie's popular cooking series. Starts April 10th!

The Art of Menu Planning

2011-03-16T02:30:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Lukens

I love to cook. I try to cook 4-5 nights a week, as schedule permits. Over the past 2 years, since my daughter was born, I have realized that in order to balance my busy schedule and ensure that my family gets the full range of fruits and vegetables into their diet, I MUST plan my menus out.

Menu planning, for me, is a deal maker.

If I don’t plan my meals out, I find myself feeling stressed and overwhelmed at the thought of making dinner. I am scrambling for ingredients, going to the grocery multiple times a week – wasting both my time and my money. I also find that I’m wasting money on ingredients that I can’t effectively use – and that I rely more on processed and preserved foods rather than fresh produce.

Menu planning requires that we re-orient ourselves toward eating and cooking. With menu planning we have to de-couple convenience and spontaneity. While menu planning can increase the convenience of eating – it takes away that spontaneous, “I want tacos tonight” moment. Convenience and spontaneity are the touchstones of industrial eating.

In order to get me and my family back to eating healthy, real food, I had to take a well thought-out, proactive approach towards our weekly meals.

So what does a meal planning session look like for my family?

Our goal is to eat at home as a family 5 nights a week. Four nights I plan, the 5th we enjoy with our friends and extended family. By prioritizing a community meal, we check in with our support system – we share a meal, build memories, and help relieve the stress of cooking and childrearing.

On Sunday morning over breakfast and everyone picks a meal for the week. We keep our respective schedules in mind – as well as any events that we might have that week.

This is a sample shopping list that my 2 year old turned into her canvas.

I write the meals on a top of a piece of paper and then organize my shopping list according to the sections of my grocery store: Produce, Dairy, Bulk, Frozen, Prepared foods, and finally processed. Having your meals and their ingredients organized in this way allows you to take a step back and look at what you’re feeding your family. If your shopping list is weighted in processed and not produce – think about how you can change that. If a recipe calls for canned tomatoes – try fresh. Canned Mushrooms? Try dehydrated. Canned beans? Go for the bulk aisle.

If anything requires a special trip to a specialty store, create a box for it.

Feeling uninspired? My favorite thing is to google a delicious ingredient and see the recipes that appear. My favorite website for recipes is the Food Network, but I also read cooking blogs, watch cooking shows, and read cook books for inspiration.

We strive to eat leafy greens multiple times a week.
We have 2 easy 30-minute meals and 2 or 3 that are more complex.
We cook enough so that we have leftovers for lunch.

We also make sure that the recipes make sense when taken together and that ingredients don’t go to waste. For example, if Monday’s meal calls for ½ a container of spinach, I make sure we can use the rest of the container before it spoils.

Meal planning is a skill we’ve lost over the generations as industrial food has crept in and alienated us from our kitchens. Give meal planning a try for a month – if it doesn’t make your life more livable – call me a liar and let me know.

Hope to see you all at our radical homemakers reading group Thursday, March 24th. We’ll be reading the second half of Radical Homemakers and the skill share will be a 30-minute meal prepared 3 ways.

More Sessions, Longer Classes Starting April!

2011-03-15T12:00:00.001-07:00

Japanese Language Children's Songs & Rhythmic Class

Join us for TWO new sessions of Sing-A-Long class in Japanese starting April. Plus, classes are now 45 minutes long so you and your little ones can enjoy MORE fun with the Japanese crafts and language!

Through simple songs and nursery rhymes, children will develop a sense of pitch, rhythm, and hand-body coordination. Recent studies suggest that sing-a-long classes can encourage positive brain development.

Parent participation is welcome! For Age group: 0 ~ 5 years

NEW! Each class is 45 minutes

1) Time: 4:30 pm - 5:15 pm ~ Every 2nd & 4th Monday

(April 11 & 25, May 9 & 23, June 13)

2)Time: 10:15 am - 11:00 am ~ Every 1st & 3rd Monday

(April 4 & 18, May 2 & 16, June 6)

*1 Course of 5 classes $40 (please pay at the first class day)

*When you attend both courses of 10 classes, the cost will be $70

*Walk-in price: $10 for one child

Contact: phone #808-988-0010 or smashiamo@hotmail.com

*Second child is free if under 6 months old

Group maximum: up to 10 children

子供のための歌遊び,リトミックのクラス
日本語で歌を歌うこのリトミッククラスでは、簡単な手遊び歌や童謡、歌遊びを通じて、日本語に親しみながら、お子様の脳に刺激を与えます。指先や体を動かすことにより、体全体でリズムを感じ音感を養います。日本語と日本の童謡は、脳にとても良いということが、最近の研究で明確になってきました。クラスでは、絵本の読み聞かせや、折り紙、お手玉などを使って楽しく日本語に親しみます。お母様もぜひご一緒にご参加ください。

教える人: 佐藤しのぐ
連絡先；phone 808-988-0010 or smashiamo@hotmail.com

秋のクラスのお知らせ
＊9月から１２月までのセッションを募集します。(9/13&27, 10/11&25, 11/8&22, 12/6)
このセッションは、最後の日がクリスマス会になります。
* 第2と第4の月曜日, 4時30分から5時（新しい時間帯です）
＊＊参加費は、前払いで、3か月分1コースとして＄35いただきます。
＊＊ファミリープライスもあります。お子様お2人/ $50 お子様3人以上/$70
＊＊Walk-in は、お子様お一人につき、＄８です。（割引はありません

New Cooking Classes for the Whole Family!

2011-03-10T19:28:00.000-08:00

Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Cooking: Autism and ADHD Diets Made Easy With Warrior Mama Katie Berry
March 10 at 10:00 a.m. and repeated on March 20th at 11:00 a.m.
Class Cost: $15 per person, or $12 pre-registration (3/10 class only)

This unique and first (but not last!) GFCF Cooking Class will inspire and guide parents onto the off-the-beaten path of cooking well and eating well. The class will cover:
What is GFCF?
What the benefits are?
How this ties into children with Autism and ADHD
Personal story (can share mine)
Showcase list of "no" foods and their alternative
Where can you buy GFCF products?
Personal recommendations of GFCF products
Showcase GFCF recipe and demonstrate how to make it (may bring two small things)

Super Toddler Foods: How to Turn Your Purees into Healthy Finger Foods
Taught by Ashley Lukens
Sunday March 27th at 11:00 a.m.
Class Cost: $10 per person

This follow-up to our ever popular Super Baby Foods Class will cover how to integrate fruits, veggies, and most especially leafy greens into your toddler's diet. We'll discuss ways to make simple changes to your meals and meal planning to make sure your child is getting 3 square healthy meals a day!

Spanish Sing-Along Class - Free Preview on March 1st!

2011-02-25T23:41:00.000-08:00

Tuesdays 10:15 - 10:45 a.m.
Open House (free) on March 1st, start of 10-week spring session

Baby Awearness hosts Oahu's first ever Spanish-language classes geared specifically toward children ages 0-5 years of age. SOL Spanish stories & songs will immerse your child in Spanish language and Latino culture through singing, playing games, reading stories, and doing crafts-all in Spanish!

Download this form to pre-register or contact Gabby for more information.

BAX Buy-In Event!

2011-02-25T20:35:00.000-08:00

Saturday, March 5th
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Clean out your playrooms and diaper stash to get cash or store credit AND join us for some delightful storytelling in English, Spanish and Japanese! We will also have a special BAX Bargain Basket filled with goodies (everything $3.50 or less!) as well as a donation drive of any books and toys we don't accept for resale. It will be a fun-filled family day that will leave you feeling good all around!

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture!

2011-02-24T12:55:00.000-08:00

Fearless Birth by Piper Lovemore **FREE**

Wednesday, March 2nd

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

As any pregnant women with a burgeoning belly can attest, there are a preponderance of frightening birth stories out there, and little apparent reluctance in sharing them. Yet birth itself is perhaps the one unequivocal commonality we all share; everyone on earth today was born. It is a completely normal physiological process with generations of proof of efficacy and yet many, if not most couples in our culture today approach their births with some degree of fear.

So why the big freak out?

The single greatest factor in evaluating a successful birth experience is perception. A highly significant and momentous experience for all involved, it is also completely subjective. Whether it evokes a few minor concerns or conjures major anxiety, fear is a common companion in many births today. The root is, invariably, concern surrounding perceived pain and injury. And yet, the irony is that for most women, fear and pain have a self-fulfilling relationship to one another in birth. It’s the fear that creates the pain, and the ensuing pain that, in turn, validates the fear. So how to break this cycle?

Please join us as we explore this question!

We will:

explore the common roots of fear
identify the purpose of fear in the birth space
explore the gifts fear has to offer
Learn how to reframe our thinking
Learn how to experience birth beyond fear
and ultimately gain the tools to clear its negative influence on the birth experience.

Come and learn ways to confront your fears and pave the way for an empowered, in tune birth experience!

Piper Lovemore is a local doula, lamaze instructor, and natural birth advocate. She teaches classes and leads the doula tea events at Baby Awearness. Piper Lovemore is a woman with purpose. She is a passionate birth activist, an insightful educator and an empathic support person.

Her core belief is that an informed experience is empowering, no matter the particular outcome. To that end, her goal is to educate and support families through their birth experience primarily through reconnecting them with their own embodied wisdom.

She is a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator. Her courses cover fundamental information about pregnancy and birth, but also include interactive excersizes catering to a variety of learning styles, and her newest series features an innovative break-out module just for men.

She also has the priviledge of serving her community as a doula and feels honored to share such an intimate experience with her clients. She has added Placenta Encapsulation to her repertoire of services, to more comprehensively support our birthing community.

Piper believes deeply in the importance of community and the richness of a diverse support network. She strives to nurture her community by organizing and attending activities with her family in her free time.

She and her partner, Chaz, have three children: Che’ Pax, Plum and Rocket, and they look forward to expanding their family further.

Childbirth in the Age of Plastics by Michel Odent

2011-02-23T00:49:00.000-08:00

Sunday, April 3rd
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
UH Manoa Art Auditorium

Michel Odent is back in Honolulu, this time to muse about the scintillating topic of childbirth in the age of plastics. His highly anticipated book of the same title will be released in June 2011.

Enjoy a sneak peek into his new book and enjoy a morning with Mr. Odent himself. Meet the growing network of natural birth professionals and advocates as well as passionate mothers in Hawaii who are making a difference to reclaim the natural birth experience. For tickets or more information, contact Jennifer Narragon at 808-348-1567 or Summer Faria at 808-387-1098.

Changing the Way We Eat - TedX Brunch Event

2011-02-07T23:47:00.000-08:00

The Hawaii Food Policy Council

Invites You to Their 1st Community Brunch -Potluck Style

Special Viewing Of TedX: “Changing the Way We Eat"

Bring yourself, your favorite local dish and an appetite for good conversation.

We'll provide coffee, tea and water.

For more information visit:

http://www.meetup.com/TEDxManhattan/Honolulu-HI/

What: TedX: “Changing the Way We Eat” Viewing Party - Potluck Brunch and Discussion

Where: University of Hawaii at Manoa, Saunders Hall 624 (2424 Maile Way, Honolulu, HI 96822)

*Street parking is available around UH and/or parking on campus is available for a $4 flat fee. For more information on UH parking options visit: http://www.hawaii.edu/parking/visitorparking.html

When: Feb 12,2011 from 8am - 12:30pm

Empty Nest Adventures

2011-02-04T17:27:00.000-08:00

(written by Anna L.)

Ashley greeted me with a "Anna, we have a problem." She was a bit disheveled, the door was open and there were boxes from our storage room scattered about. "The baby birds have escaped!"

Uh oh!

Perfect place for a nest

Now, as a back story, about a month or so ago we heard some little chirping sounds and realized that a mama bird had chosen a vent on the outside of our store to have her babies. Baby A loves mother nature and babies, so it's only fitting, I suppose, that a mama bird pick us out of all of the other stores to entrust the safety of her little ones. Good thing too! I don't imagine too many other places would have went through the ordeal we did over a nest of birds and kept them around.

So Ashley fills me in, she's moved things out of the way because the birds have moved whatever was stopping them from coming inside and have infiltrated our store room like naughty teenagers playing hookie. I ask if they're in the flying stage or the hopping stage and she tells me that they're hopping. Phew. We're both pretty short so trying to capture a flying bird seems like a circus act to my mind.

As we're talking she captures one and climbs up to deposit it in the nest. We rearrange some more and finally catch the next one but as she is replacing it another one evades her and drops behind the fridge. We play a game of hide and seek, using a broom to gently shoo the little one into my hands and get it safely home. It's so cute and tiny! I love animals and, as Ashley and I agreed, there are too many examples of humans taking over their habitats and displacing them, I'm glad these little ones are unharmed and back where they will be cared for by their mom.

Sealed up, we actually replaced this with cardboard as they tried to escape again.

We managed to get some pictures of our winged Ohana before we sealed their home from our side. Apparently these little ones are ready to have some adventures, I think they'll need to discuss that with their mom though because Auntie Ashley and Auntie Anna have decided that Baby A is not the place they are going to be having their fun. We love to hear them chirp and they're welcome to stay there, just... not causing commotion in our stockroom (after all, they could get hurt!).

Welcome to the Ohana Little Birdies!

Super Balls

2011-02-03T17:44:00.000-08:00

I come to you with a hidden laundry secret, particularly for my cloth diapering mamas.

Wool dryer balls will save you time and money.

These seemingly simple little balls reduce drying time, are safe to use (all natural fibers also make them antimicrobial and they can be safely scented too!) and will help you keep your diapers longer because the less time they are exposed to the high heat of a dryer the longer they last. That time you save also cuts the electricity you use so, bonus savings! They have also been shown to naturally soften your clothes and diapers without chemicals and reduce static.

So how do they work?

They work by improving the circulation and air and heat in the dryer. Unlike the plastic ones you may have seen, these are quiet and chemical free, they have no rough surface bumps to catch on your clothes and the natural fibers of wool reduces any unpleasant smells too. Just toss a few in with your clothes or diapers and let them work their magic! The more you throw in the bigger the savings but the makers recommend you start with four in each load.

You can find these amazing dryer balls at Baby Awearness of course, and I highly recommend them to any cloth diapering mamas because they really will help your diapers live a little longer. After a while PUL that has been washed and dried on high temperatures will start to wear out, or the aplix will start to curl and need replaced, these are normal in the life of a diaper but this is a simple, effective way to reduce that wear and tear.

As far as a sustainable living choice, you don't have to have a baby in diapers to benefit from these little laundry savers because the same magic works for your clothes. If you're concerned about the environment the decrease in the use of electricity is great and since they're made of wool and not plastic they are less harmful to produce (plus sheep can grow more wool). Less time spent waiting on laundry or buying new clothing, less static and softer clothes with no chemicals and more money in your pocket is a good thing for any family!

Happiest Baby On the Block is back!

2011-02-02T01:43:00.000-08:00

Saturday February 19th
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
$60 (up to 2 parents)

We are thrilled to repeat the Happiest Baby Workshop! It is so popular that we are going to offer it quarterly. To register, please contact Michelle Richardson at 366-8111 or the store at 988-0010.

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture: Pregnancy Nutrition

2011-02-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, February 2nd
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Led by: Kate Greenwell

Cost: FREE!

There's no greater motivation to eat healthy than knowing that your diet affects the health and well-being of your precious little one. Research clearly indicates the importance of a healthy diet during pregnancy for the ideal growth and development of your child. Find out how to give your child a head-start on health by attending the October Healthy Pregnancy Lecture on Nutrition!

This super fun and informative event will include topics such as:

How what we eat affects the growth and development of our babies
Which foods to devour and which foods to avoid
Fact vs. Fiction when it comes to the safety of certain foods, supplements, and products during pregnancy
Key nutrients -- what are they, what do they do, and how to ensure you are getting enough
Tools to combat morning sickness and constipation
Tricks to keep weight gain on target
The low down on pregnancy complications: Gestational Diabetes, Preeclampsia

Feel free to also email personal or specific questions prior to class to kate.wellnourished@gmail.com.

As a Registered Dietitian and food enthusiast, nutrition is Kate's passion. Also a Licensed Massage Therapist, Kate uses her 9 years of experience in the health and wellness industry to collaborate with clients and develop realistic and sustainable lifestyle changes. Kate's solid foundation in Clinical Nutrition combined with experience in Holistic Wellness gives her the distinct advantage of providing her clients with a well-rounded perspective of optimal health. Expecting her first child in November, Kate is the go-to expert for all things related to pregnancy and nutrition.

To reserve a spot at the lecture, please call the store at 988-0010 or e-mail lani@babyawearness.com

Kale Applesauce

2011-01-24T19:11:00.000-08:00

The key to good applesauce, a wise auntie once told me, is lots of different apples. The key to a healthy diet, a wise macrobiotic chef told me, is variety variety variety. This yummy and easy to make kale applesauce does both.

7-10 Apples of all kinds. Buy organic. Its better for baby and the environment. If you're feelin' kind crazy - add a pear or two!

Peal ½ the apples and cube. Leave the skin on the rest for fiber’s-sake.

Cover apples with water. Boil in sauce pan until soft. As apples cook, you might need to add more water.

WHEN APPLES ARE SOFT, turn heat off and add 10 leaves of stemmed kale (to remove the stems, just rip leaves off).

Turn off Heat.

Mix in kale. Cover until wilted.

Put in blender and blend for 3 minutes.

Freeze in ice cube trays and add to all smoothies, yogurt, and oatmeal. Add water to make popsicles.

Our NEXT Super Baby Foods class is 2/13 @11am. Come learn how to make kale applesauce and more!

Is it time to wean yet?

2011-01-18T05:12:00.000-08:00

by Holli Shiro

PART TWO
When you’re ready to start weaning, weaning can be mother-led or baby-led, but often it is a combination of both, with the mother watching for cues that her child is ready to be nudged a little closer to weaning completely from the breast. Some moms may be ready to wean completely, others may be feeling overwhelmed by the number of nursing sessions in a day, but aren’t quite ready to wean completely. Cutting down on nursing sessions can help bring some balance back to her life. It is generally not advisable to wean abruptly since this can be traumatizing to the child and cause mom to be susceptible to plugged ducts and mastitis.

Common weaning strategies
Nursing is about more than just nutrition for mother and child. For the child, it is a source of comfort and love, and as many experienced moms know, a quick nursing session can soothe an upset child, calm down an over-stimulated one or serves as a no-fail way to get their baby to sleep. When you are taking away this experience at the breast for your child, it needs to be replaced with something that conveys the same message of love and comfort.

1. Don’t offer, don’t refuse: you can stop offering nursing sessions, but at the same time, nurse if her child requests it or clearly needs it.

2. Use distraction or substitution: if child asks to nurse, offer a snack or to read a book or play a game instead. You can also change parts of your daily routine to eliminate a predictable nursing time.

3. Use delay: if child asks to nurse, tell her you’ll do it after you finish the dishes or fold the laundry, etc. The child may forget about nursing by the time you are finished.

4. Limit nursing sessions. You can set limits, such as only nursing at home, not in public or nursing for the duration of a song or to the count of 10.

5. Involve dad or other family member in distracting child from a nursing session you want to drop. Can be especially helpful at bedtime or first thing in the morning.

Fertility and Nutrition

2011-01-17T13:38:00.000-08:00

Join us for our very first Healthy Pregnancy Lecture of the year!

Wednesday January 19th, 6:00 p.m.

FREE!

Stephanie Jurgenson, holistic health coach, will offer an interesting presentation on how to nourish and even boost your fertility. A professionally trained and certified nutritionist, Stephanie will share all kinds of tips and insight into getting on a healthy track of well-being that also integrates pregnancy-readiness.

TO RSVP for the lecture: e-mail lani@babyawearness.com or Stephanie Jurgenson 783-0163

Is It Time to Wean Yet?

2011-01-16T01:01:00.000-08:00

by Holli Shiro

PART ONE
Technically speaking, weaning begins when something other than breastmilk is introduced to baby. For some babies weaning begins with a supplemental bottle of formula, for others it’s their first taste of rice cereal or smashed bananas. From this perspective, weaning is often a long process of gradually replacing breastmilk with other foods over the period of six months to several years. Many mothers hear that their breastmilk no longer nutritionally benefits their baby after six months or one year of age. On the contrary, breastmilk continues to be highly nutritious and delivers immunological benefits to a growing baby or toddler for as long as they are breastfeeding.

The World Health Organization recommends: “Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends: “Pediatricians and parents should be aware that exclusive breastfeeding is sufficient to support optimal growth and development for approximately the first 6 months of life and provides continuing protection against diarrhea and respiratory tract infection. Breastfeeding should be continued for at least the first year of life and beyond for as long as mutually desired by mother and child.”

Natural weaning age
Anthropologist Katherine Dettwyler has studied weaning ages in primates according to different variables, such as weaning according to tripling or quadrupling birth weight, gestation length, attaining 1/3 of adult weight, adult body size and weaning according to emergence of permanent molars. When applied to humans, natural weaning age ranges from a minimum of two years old to a maximum of seven years old. Of course, cultural norms play a large part in deciding when to wean completely from the breast. For non-western cultures, nursing until age 3 is common. Mothers in western cultures often wean at a much younger age.

Deciding to wean: what to consider
Child’s reasons for continuing to nurse:
Tastes good, feels good, source of comfort and quality time with mom

Child’s reasons for weaning:
Distracted by other activities, eating and drinking other foods

Mom’s reasons for continuing to nurse:
Easy and free, good nutrition and immunological benefits, mothering tool

Mom’s reasons for weaning:
Feels “touched out”, returning to work or school, desires return of fertility, outside pressures

Radical Homemakers Reading Group

2011-01-11T23:17:00.000-08:00

I am so looking forward to starting our Radical Homemaking Reading Group on January 20th, at 7pm! If you are curious what I mean by Radical Homemaking, please check out this short story in the weekly.

Radical Homemaking is, at its core, about building sustainable, healthy communities through family. This reading group will be an opportunity for us to discuss the necessary conditions of possibility for us all to be our own version of a radical homemaker. 

Prior to our first meeting, please pick up a copy of Radical Homemaking at the store, and read the preface and intro. These short and easy to read chapters lay out the organization of the book and will give all of us an idea of what we're in for.  

At our first meeting, we will set the schedule for future meetings and draft a short list of relevant books that we can read after Radical Homemaking. Finally, because skill-sharing and community building are the foundations for all radical homemaking, we will also come up with a list of workshops we are interested in having in conjunction with our reading group meetings.

Doula Tea Returns this Saturday!

2011-01-09T17:51:00.000-08:00

Doula Tea Time
Saturday, January 15th
2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Our first doula tea was such a full house that we are bringing it back! If you missed it last month, stop by the store this Saturday afternoon and enjoy some Earth Mama tea samples while learning all about doulas. You'll get to meet some of Honolulu's finest certified doulas and have all your questions answered. Find out how having a doula can be helpful to you and your partner and baby-to-come.

A few questions and topics to ask about:

Who should come to my birth?
Why hire a doula?
What are the benefits of having a doula?
Coping with labor, the doula way

Baby A Exchange Launches

2011-01-06T17:51:00.000-08:00

Start the new year off right! Out with the old and in with the re-newed!

Join us this Saturday, January 8, 2011, from 10 - 4 pm, as we celebrate the launch of Baby A Exchange (BAX) at Baby Awearness in Manoa Marketplace. This will be the first and biggest "Buy-In" event of the year!

From 10 am to 4 pm during BAX's "Buy-In," we will hand pick high-quality, gently-used goods from the public. This is a perfect opportunity for you to off load those not-so-perfect items received during the holiday season, or simply to clean out your closets. Join us and and invite your friends along in getting a fresh start in 2011 (and a little extra cash)!

Baby A Exchange is a store by the community, for the community. 100% of our items will be bought directly from local customers to keep pre-loved goodies from going to waste. We curate for the high-end and the eco-friendly, offering clothing, toys and accessories for both mama and baby. No more sifting through piles of junk at the thrift store or waiting months to get repaid at a typical consignment shop. We give cash or store credit for your items on the spot. You'll get more value for your stuff if you're willing to accept trade (store credit) instead of cash.

We only buy and sell the best at Baby A Exchange.
BAX accepts high-quality, gently-used cloth diapers, carriers, toys, clothing and other parenting accessories including maternity clothes.
Think "boutique eco-fashion" -- not Goodwill. For all accepted items,
you will have a choice of being paid in cash, store credit,
and/or donating any portion of your payment to a local non-profit.

Additionally, a portion of proceeds from all Baby A Exchange purchases will be donated to various non-profits. Non-profits interested in being a beneficiary of the Baby A Exchange, should contact Amanda@babyawearness.com.

For guidelines and further details on how BAX works, read here. If you have any questions or need to speak to a team member, please call the store at 808.988.0010.

Healthy Pregnancy Lectures in 2011

2010-12-30T16:33:00.000-08:00

Looking for free pregnancy education?

Finally! A fresh, dynamic, interesting pregnancy class series that won't leave you snoozing! Baby Awearness has teamed up with the best and the brightest of Oahu's natural birth community to educate as well as entertain. Our Healthy Pregnancy Lectures are FREE and open to the public! All classes are scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month (except in January) and located at our store in the Manoa Marketplace, 2nd floor.

We hope you will join us. Reminders will go out for every month but feel free to rsvp anytime. Or you can also just show up!

Coming up on . .

January 19th - Fertility and Nutrition: Nourishing the Miracle of Conception
Whether you are planning your first pregnancy or growing your family, healthy living before and during pregnancy is beneficial for all moms and babies-to-be. Supported by scientific research, nutritionist Stephanie Jurgenson will discuss the link between what you eat and your fertility and offer suggested nutrition and lifestyle steps to boost your fertility.

February 2nd - Pregnancy Nutrition
Nutritionist (and new mom) Kate Greenwell will offer great tips and insight into maintaining an expecting mother's healthy eating habits while optimizing health for her growing baby as well.

March 2nd - Fearless Birth
Natural birth advocate and Lamaze instructor Piper Lovemore will lead a discussion on having a fear-less birth. Many women (and men) often feel some degree of trepidation when confronted with even the idea of labor and delivery. This presentation is a great forum to explore those fears and learn how to replace them with positive affirmations and facts.

~~April 6th - Home Safety -~~ CANCELLED
Local naturopathic doctor, Dr. Veronica Ford will present tips and advice on how home safety after baby arrives. Beyond the typical childproofing to-do's, she will also talk about how to create a non-toxic environment in the home.

May 4th - Post-partum Rejuvenation
Acupuncturist and doula Tara Mattes returns with this popular topic about post-partum care for new moms. This lecture offers great insight into the importance of helping mothers transition back to health and feel rejuvenated during those first weeks after birth.

How Important Is Breastfeeding, Really?

2010-12-27T08:53:00.000-08:00

PART 2: What do moms say?
(comments from moms of the La Leche League of Central Oahu group)

Breastfeeding is Practical:

No hassle or worry about preparation of formula, nothing to sterilize, heat up, clean up
Breastfeeding is available anytime, anyplace
Breastfeeding is instant gratification for baby
Often delays the return of your period
No worry about baby getting good nutrition
Economical (it’s free!)
Helps with losing pregnancy weight

Breastfeeding Deepens Attachment:

Helps at birth to bond and overcome the newness for baby and mother
Hormones released during breastfeeding makes you feel good
Helps you reconnect with your baby during tough times
Love how baby looks into your eyes during nursing
Skin to skin contact enhances bond
Helps baby feel better when they are tired, hungry or hurt
Nice knowing there’s always something to do to help your baby, a “quick fix”

Breastfeeding Helps You Know How To Be a Mother:

Gives confidence in mothering abilities
You’re more in tune with your baby so you can pick up on their cues sooner
Perseverance through difficulties shows your strength and helps you confront challenges
Opportunities for mother-to-mother bonding
More reliance on your maternal instincts, takes outside pressure off and reassure you that you’re doing a good job

How Important Is Breastfeeding, Really?

2010-12-26T12:20:00.000-08:00

PART 1: What does the research say?
(from The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, 8th edition)

There’s no formula that comes even close to the milk your body creates. Your milk has every vitamin, mineral and other nutritional element that your baby’s body needs, including many that haven’t been discovered or named yet.

Living cells unique to breastmilk inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses in your baby’s still-maturing system.

Interferons and inter-leukins are powerful anti-infectives found in breastmilk (they would cost a fortune if they were for sale!)

Without his normal food, baby is at higher risk for ear infections, intestinal upsets and respiratory problems. Allergy and dental problems are more common. Vision, nerves and intestines don’t develop fully.

With artificial baby food, a baby’s kidneys and liver work harder to process wastes products from formula. Baby’s immune system’s response to vaccinations is less effective.

The risk of SIDS and infant death from many other causes is higher if a baby isn’t breastfed.

Colostrum “seals” baby’s brand-new intestinal walls to protect against foreign germs and proteins that could create allergic sensitivities.

When baby is breastfed, his jaw muscles are exercised and massaged in a way that causes the bones in his face and jaw to develop more fully.

When your newborn takes your breast soon after delivery, your uterus contracts and bleeding slows.

Women who haven’t breastfed are at greater risk for metabolic syndrome, which is a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes.

Breastfeeding is an insurance policy against breast, uterine and cervical cancer, meaning you are less susceptible to them. Osteoporosis and fractures are more common in women who didn’t breastfeed.

There’s a surge of hormones (prolactin and oxytocin) in your body every time you breastfeed that makes you feel loving and nurturing, promoting bonding and attachment to your baby.

Baby Awearness's AMAZING Cloth Diaper Packages are now ONLINE!

2010-12-23T22:23:00.000-08:00

Visit Baby Awearness's Online Store to check out our amazing Cloth Diaper Packages. Intended to give you everything you need to cloth diaper, we offer some of the best prices on the web. You can mix and match brands, colors, sizes, etc.

Warrior Mother and the Diet/Autism Connection

2010-12-22T23:23:00.000-08:00

(A version of this entry can be found in the Honolulu Weekly)

I never knew Katie Berry had a son with Autism, despite having met him multiple times. Katie is one of those moms who comes into Baby Awearness and blows me away - she is a funny, crafty, talented military mom. But after attending an Autism and ADHD lecture given by Thauna Abrin, ND, Katie Berry is officially my hero.

The gist of Abrin’s lecture was as follows: Modern day, western diets - diets devoid of the B vitamins, trace minerals, and the essential fatty acids found in leafy greens, whole grains, and nuts/seeds - have effectively incapacitated the gut and shut down the liver. This dysfunctional “leaky gut” leaves our brains starving for the nutrients it needs to properly function. The liver, meanwhile, can’t properly process environmental toxins, so our body turns into a cesspool of sorts.

Simultaneously, mindless eating has led us to mistake food sensitivities and GI disorders for behavioral problems to be to be treated with heavy doses of medication: from stimulants to anti-depressants.

After Abrin’s lecture, Berry recounted nights of terror watching her then 2-year old son completely shut down, crying and vomiting for no apparent reason. Her days were filled with high-pitched screams and tantrums. Her life was spiraling out on control.

After months of denial, Berry began pounding the pathways of various military medical offices, trying to find the help she so desperately needed. She fired doctors, walked out of daycares, and refused the medication-based treatments offered to her. “It was just me, my husband, and Jenny McCarthy,” Berry laughed.

In addition to the standard occupational, speech, and behavioral therapy, Berry decided that her family needed a total diet overhall, and she began practicing the wholistic DAN (Defeat Autism Now) treatment made famous by celebrity mom Jenny McCarthy. Mixing the Feingold and GFCF (gluten-free, casein free) diets, Berry’s family also got off processed foods and artificial food additives. “It was hard…but within 2 weeks, we started to see the improvements. I didn’t get one new word out of him, but it didn’t matter. The crying stopped. He started to sleep, and I felt sane for the first time.”

DAN, or the biomedical approach to Autism, examines “how GI disorders, detoxification and other metabolic issues, and nutrition, impact a child’s sense of self, behavior, attention, speech, and general health and wellbeing.” It primarily involves testing for toxins, food sensitivities, taking supplements and changing one’s diet.

While mainstream treatments for Autism focus on behavioral, occupational, and speech therapies, diet is often overlooked. “There is a lot of 'anecdotal' evidence to suggest that a gluten free dairy free diet is helpful, there is not to my knowledge any scientific evidence to back up the personal stories,” cautions Kristine Cuthrell, former president of the local HI Dietition's Association. Indeed, MDs disregard the biomedical route because DAN therapies lack the double blind, placebo controlled experiments to soundly demonstrate their effectiveness and safety.

For Abrin, its not worth the wait. “If we waited for these studies to come out for every therapy we use, we'd be missing the opportunity to help kids who could significantly benefit.”

While the biomedical approach to Autism is marginalized, with so many stories like Berry’s, I have to ask, why? Are we so attached to our industrial diets that we are willfully ignoring its tragic behavioral side effects?

Although I am not an expert in Autism, the stories of Berry and Abrin resonate with my understanding of the culture of industrial food consumption.

Eating ignorantly, and on the go, we are surrounded by food – cheap food – seemingly healthy low fat, no-carb food, and yet we still don’t know what to eat. Despite the proliferation of scientifically backed, heart association enforced, FDA-approved products and diets, every year we’re getting fatter and sicker - with heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

Our children might be suffering too.

“People don’t see the gut/brain connection,” muses Berry. “They might acknowledge having a sugar rush, or being drunk from the beer in their belly, but if you suggest that processed food causes Autism, suddenly there is no relation.”

Practicing the Feingold or GFCF diets is no walk in the park. Parties, relatives, and even school lunches suddenly become battlegrounds. On top of being difficult, biomedical tests and treatments are expensive (many lack any insurance coverage) and they take time. “People are looking for a quick fix, a magic pill,” explains Abrin. “A biomedical breakthrough generally takes around a year and a half. That can cost close to $10,000.”

The money, the time, and the effort – for Berry, it was worth it. “I just needed hope…and the stories of mom’s who had had success through diet, gave me that hope.” Today, Berry’s son is a quirky, happy, healthy 6 year old. Their story, like so many others in the biomedical community, powerfully demonstrates the importance of total health and wellbeing, and the need for all of us to think about what we are putting into our own mouths, and the mouths of our kids.

For more information, visit:

http://www.defeatautismnow.com/
http://www.thespunkycoconut.com/
http://www.feingold.org/

Baby Awearness will host another Austim Lecture with Dr Abrin in April, 2011.

Re-wrap for the Holidays

2010-12-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

by Lani Lee

Image courtesy of Loopto

Somewhere between the hours of being a mother and intervals of unexpected calm, I manage to indulge in an old love: making crafty things. Whether in the form of yarn, fabric or paper, I love to knit, crochet, sew, create homemade cards, and more. Long before I spent sleepless nights caring for a baby, I used to have all nighters furiously binding off that last-minute scarf or hat gift.

This year, with limited time, I decided that all I could manage was making my own "wrapping paper." Inspired by my upbringing with a Japanese mother and an affinity for all things zakka-like, I chose to make furoshiki to use in lieu of wrapping paper.

Handmade furoshiki using traditional Japanese printing techniques

Image courtesy of thelinkcollective

Furoshiki is simply a square piece of cloth that is used (and re-used) as a wrapping, lunch bag, or carrying sack. Traditional furoshiki often was made of silk with shibori or designs similar to those used on kimono garments. The furoshiki featured above is created with a modern design twist using complex, artistic techniques, but for D-I-Y or home purposes, the least you have to do is cut a square piece of fabric and sew the edges.

Image courtesy of thelinkcollective

Here is a great tutorial of some different ways to use furoshiki. You also have to check out this jazzy video tutorial here!

For those of you who don't sew or can't get your hands on a furoshiki, you can embrace the Green Grocery Bag Challenge. You can read more about going green for the holidays here.

'Tis the Season to be Giving

2010-12-18T16:19:00.000-08:00

By Anna Lahr at Baby Awearness

When I think of the holidays I always think of giving back to the community. One thing I like to do is really look at all of the "junk" around my house and determine what I don't need anymore. I know I'll be getting some new things (holidays and our anniversary actually fall in that time frame!) so I try to make room for the gifts we exchange as a family. I also like to start out the New Year feeling fresh and positive and one way I do that is to "de-clutter" my house.

I remember when I was a child my mom would ask my sister and I to go through all of the things we didn't want or need anymore. We did this a few times a year, usually in the summer before we started school as well as in the winter time, this coincided when we usually got new clothes so I think my mom was on to something ;) When we were done we'd take the bags of toys, books, shoes and clothes to a local thrift store, our favorites being the ones that gave back to the community in some way other than just selling goods. Fittingly, these were also some of the same stores we went when we were shopping for new clothes! Looking back I'm very glad my mom instilled this practice in us. We never grew up thinking we were too good for used items and in fact got a lot of nice things we otherwise may not have been able to afford. We weren't "poor" but I think we were able to afford a lot of other nice things like camp or vacation because my mom saved us money on things like clothing.

Fast forward to being pregnant with a daughter of my own and I'm hearing from every angle "New babies can be SO expensive!" Since my husband and I were tight on money I looked for ways around this. I bought used, accepted hand-my-downs and looked on freecycle as much as I could. My daughter's cloth diapers were either free from freecycle or friends or bought from other moms whose children had already loved and outgrown them. When my daughter outgrew some of those diapers (and I had to make room for more, of course!) I passed them along to a friend of mine who was new to cloth diapering.

I recently went through a lot of my daughter's teeny tiny things and either donated them or set them aside. Some of them I plan to offer up to Baby A Exchange and others I'm holding on to in case I have another baby... somewhere down the road.

The beautiful thing to me about all of this is the continuing life these items have had and will continue to have. I have been blessed and been able to save a great deal and what I did have to spend I feel good about because the money either went to another family or helped some charitable store provide services to the community. There's less wasted on packaging and production and I feel confident in the quality of these products because they've stood the test of time for me and others.

In a world plagued by consumerism and waste this makes me feel like I'm making a difference. Instead of mindlessly consuming "throw away" items I'm recycling and paying it forward. I especially love it this time of year when money is tight and people are trying to provide for their families an enjoyable holiday season. I get to feel a little better about all of the blessings I've received without feeling guilty that there are others less fortunate because I'm doing something to help them. Every body wins!

On Saturday, January 8th, from 10am-2pm, Baby Awearness will host a “buy-in,” when the store will handpick high quality, gently used goods from the public. This is a perfect opporuntity for families to off load those not-so-perfect items received during the holiday season, or to clean out their closet for the new year. If unable to attend the Buy In, interested sellers should set-up a meeting with a Baby A Exchange representative.

For all accepted items, the customer will have a choice of being paid in cash, store credit, and/or donating any portion of their payment to a local non-profit. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from all Baby A Exchange purchases will be donated to various non-profits. Non-profits interested in being a beneficiary of the Baby A exchange, should contact Amanda@babyawearness.com .

Toy Sale!

2010-12-09T03:01:00.000-08:00

Toys will be on sale 10 to 20% off on Dec 11th and 12th (consignment toys excluded). Snatch up these great holiday specials this weekend only

Nova Naturals
Wooden Horse Stable Barn

Great for imaginative play with animals and dolls!

20% off regular price: $199.99
** Sale price: $160.00 **

Wooden Vehicles by Kinderkram, handmade in Germany

15% off regular price: $95.00
** Sale price: $80.75 **

Also available:
Wooden Tow Truck

Table Top Kitchen
Handcrafted cherry and walnut stove with knobs that turn and a removable sink. Perfect for hours of cooking play!  
10% off regular price: $150.00  ** Sale price: $135.00 **

 Also on sale ~ 15% to 20% off all toys by Maxim, Green Toys, Evi Dolls and Gnomes

Its hard to say goodbye

2010-12-08T22:04:00.000-08:00

Its hard to say good bye. Its hard to make big changes...but it seems that Baby Awearness has to do both in 2011. After much thought, Hot Mama and Baby Awearness have decided to say goodbye as partners and roomies in Manoa. Now under new ownership, Hot Mama Maternity will re-open in Pearl City in the summer of 2011. As Baby A's closest fans and families, I thought I would use this opportunity and this forum to reflect on the past year and what I have learned.

Joining up with Hot Mama was not a choice - I think Mel and I both agree, it was fate. A chance meeting with Mel in Hot Mama's old Waialae location quickly turned into an amazing partnership. Within 2 months of meeting, Hot Mama moved in to Manoa, and their creative and financial support allowed Baby A to grow tremendously.

Together we developed the Hawaii's Next Hot Mama Contest, which we hope to hold again this Spring, and from that, the Hot Mama Network. Through these events, I realized just what an amazing community we have built through Baby A. Smart, talented, creative, driven women attend these events. Moms who give amazing advice. Honest advice. Women who speak truth. We've developed this incredible network of crafty, funky, fun mamas...and despite Hot Mama's departure, we will continue to support them through our classes, events and products.

Part of me is kind of scared to go off on our own - will we make it? Does natural and eco-friendly parenting have the interest and support that the continued operation of Baby A requires? I think we will and I think we do. The success of small businesses like baby awearness is not simply a result of our products and prices - although we try to be as competitive as possible. Our success is about the relationships we have cultivated - relationships with our customers, with other local businesses, and the amazing mama-prenuers here in Hawaii.

It was the suggestions of these woman that will drive Baby A's new direction. I'm exicted to share this new direction - details are coming within the week.

But for now, I pause to reflect - and give thanks.

Mel, Hot Mama's former owner, is an incredible woman, and an asset to our community. I was/am honored to have the chance to work with her. To the new owners of Hot Mama Maternity - we wish you the best and we're here to help!

Bye Bye Hot Mama. We'll miss you.

-Ashley

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture

2010-12-07T09:43:00.000-08:00

Post-Partum Rejuvenation

Sunday, December 12
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Led by: Tara Mattes, LAc

Cost: FREE!

Join us for our next and last Healthy Pregnancy Lecture of the year. Tara Mattes, LAc and certified doula, will offer an interesting presentation on post-partum care.

The Postpartum Period is a vital time for a woman's present and future health. It is often considered the fourth stage of pregnancy as it is an essential time to heal, nourish and bond with her newborn baby. The mother's health and state of being is the foundation for building a new or growing family, but in this fast-paced modern world it is often the most neglected. This lecture will be about what all traditional cultures have known and practiced since the beginning of time; the importance of postpartum care and recovery. Understanding these universal and time tested traditions, we can adapt and apply them in a way that fits to our modern lives.

In the lecture, we will examine cover topics such as perineal care, nourishing foods, rest, warm therapy, proper support, mental and emotional well being, breastfeeding and cultivating energy. The aim is to best prepare mothers and/or their caretakers for the postpartum period that creates a positive experience and healthy start to a new life.

Tara Mattes is a licensed acupuncturist, certified doula, and certified detox counselor. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Pre-medical Studies from University of Colorado. She later studied in Hawaii under Taoist Master Chang Yi Hsiang at the Tai Hsuan College of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine. Her training in Chinese Medicine focuses on qi gong, acupuncture, herbal medicine and Taoist philosophy and arts. When not serving her patients, she enjoys receiving acupuncture treatments, dancing, hiking, swimming, and being with her daughters.

TO RSVP for the lecture: e-mail lani@babyawearness.com or call 988-0010

Holiday Storytelling with Miss Roberta

2010-11-30T07:47:00.000-08:00

Be sure to break away from the holiday madness by bringing your little ones to our Holiday Storytelling Hour on Saturday, December 11th at 11 a.m. Miss Roberta Ducharme of Waldorf Honolulu School's parent/child program will lead a delightful segment of songs, stories, rhythm and rhyme. Perfect for children ages 0 to 5 years.

All toys will be on sale 10 to 20% off during the weekend of Dec 11th and 12th.

Doula Curious?

2010-11-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Doula Tea Time
Saturday, December 11th from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Enjoy some Earth Mama tea samples while learning all about doulas. Stop by the store and meet some of Honolulu's finest certified doulas and get all your questions answered. Find out how having a doula can be helpful to you and your partner and baby-to-come.

A few questions and topics to ask about:

Who should come to my birth?
Why hire a doula?
What are the benefits of having a doula?
Coping with labor, the doula way

Autism and ADHD Talk with Dr. Thauna Abrin

2010-11-22T17:17:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, December 14th
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $15 per person

Join us for an evening with Dr. Thauna Abrin, a trained naturopathic doctor for a discussion about addressing autism and ADHD through natural, drug-free, non-invasive therapies. Learn about the success of these therapies including dietary changes, vitamins, detoxification, and homeopathic medicines. A perfect class for parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone else interested. The holidays are a busy time but make room in your calendars because this is an incredible opportunity to learn more about this relevant and compelling topic. We hope you will join us!

Dr. Thauna Abrin, ND and DAN (Defeat Autism Now) professional
A graduate of the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, Dr Abrin has 9 years of experience as a naturopathic doctor and midwife in both Hawaii and California. In her practice, Dr Abrin utilizes herbs, homeopathy, detoxification and craniosacral therapy to facilitate healing.

Dr Abrin has developed a special interest in treating women and children with conditions caused by environmental toxins. She utilizes naturopathic medicine and detoxification to prevent and treat ADHD, autism, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, thyroid disorders and gynecological disorders.

Dr Abrin is published in Diabetes Interview magazine and recently is the contributing author of a recent book: The Green Pregnancy Diet, on non-toxic nutrition and lifestyle during pregnancy. She is passionate about educating people about natural treatments for ADHD and autism.

Dr. Abrin relocated from Oahu to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2006 but returns to Honolulu three times a year to offer an autism spectrum clinic.

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture: All About Doulas

2010-11-19T16:30:00.000-08:00

Sunday, November 21st
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Led by: Kathy Julia, LMT, CD

Cost: FREE!

Our next Healthy Pregnancy Lecture is all about doulas! Doula is a Greek word that refers to a woman who personally serves another woman. The word has evolved to encompass a woman who is experienced in childbirth, and who provides continuous physical, emotional and spiritual support to the mother, before, during, and after childbirth. Even today, Doulas can serve a great role in the labor and delivery experience. They are trained birth professionals who offer guidance, knowledge, and support to a mother as well as an expecting father. Join Kathy Julia, a certified Labor doula and trainer, for a conversation about the role of a doula in providing support to a birthing family. This is an amazing opportunity for anyone who is interested in having a doula at their birth or also in becoming one.

Kathy Julia is a Licensed Massage Therapist since 1978, a practitioner of Siddha Yoga since 1982, and a Certified Labor Doula and Labor Doula Trainer with Childbirth & Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA). She is also a mother and grandmother. The combination of knowledge, skills and experience have called her to a strong sense of purpose to fulfill the need for educational, emotional and spiritual support to birthing families. She has helped countless families reduce the stress, fears and anxieties related to childbirth, empowering them to participate fully in their birthing process.

To reserve a spot at the lecture, please call the store at 988-0010 or e-mail lani@babyawearness.com

Coming up next: December 12th @ 6:30pm: Post-Partum Care with Tara Mattes, LAc

Yoga for Expecting Moms

2010-11-18T17:37:00.000-08:00

Yoga in Pregnancy Workshop

With Brynne Caleda, RYT, CLD, M.Ed.

Sunday December 5, 2010

9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Cost: $40

Please bring your yoga mat, hand towel, and water to class

Yoga is an excellent way to prepare the mind, body and spirit for the many transitions of pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood. In this two-hour-long workshop you will learn techniques for breath awareness, yoga poses (modifications and what not to do) and visualization and relaxation techniques. All of these techniques can help strengthen and relax your body and sooth your mind during your birth and after.

Style of Yoga ~ Vinyasa/Pregnancy
This workshop is excellent for people trying to get pregnant, who are pregnant, and who have had a child. You can come solo or with a partner. This workshop is appropriate for not only those new to yoga but to seasoned practitioners and to anyone interested in understanding the complex changes that occur in pregnancy.

More Information or to sign up, contact Brynne at brynne@undertheyogatree.com or 808.753.8501

Holiday Cheers with Macrobiotic Hawaii

2010-11-17T16:40:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the holidays at these new fun, social, and educational events coming up at the store offered by Chef Leslie Ashburn of Macrobiotic Hawaii.

Vegan High Tea, Nov 28th from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Come decompress during the holiday season with delicious scones, sandwiches, salad, tea, and great company. We tend to get frazzled by the holiday events and not give enough time to ourselves for fun, health, and relaxation. We are our best selves when we are living in the moment and enjoying life! For a 'green' touch, bring your own tea cup and tell your story behind it. (Note: No lesson involved), $20 per person

1 Food 5 Ways, Cooking Class Dec 5th from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Learn how to use one of the world's healthiest foods, winter squash, in five delicious ways. Recipes and food tasting provided. $40 per person

Fermented Foods, Cooking Class Dec 12th from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Fermented foods are paramount to optimal health. Come learn why, as well as how to make your own. Taste samples and take home the recipes. $40 per person

To sign up for any of these events, click here.

Happiest Baby Workshop on Nov 20th

2010-11-16T16:29:00.000-08:00

Saturday November 20th
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

We are thrilled to repeat the Happiest Baby Workshop!

To register, please contact Michelle Richardson at 366-8111 or the store at 988-0010.

Sweet Info Class: Sugar 101

2010-11-11T00:29:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, November 17 at 6:30-8:00 p.m.
$10 pre-registration/$15 at the door

Are you craving sweets and want to understand why?

Maybe you're pregnant and sweet cravings have taken control of what was once a healthy diet. Would you like to gain control without deprivation? Sweet Info is for anyone who ever has sugar cravings or is anticipating the abundance of sweets encountered during the holiday season.

Please join Stephanie Jurgenson, Holistic Health Coach, for this informative and timely presentation to learn how you can curb your sugar cravings and get on track with eating healthy and still be satisfied.

Heatlhy Sweet Snacks will be served.

For details, please call Baby Awearness 988-0010 or Stephanie Jurgenson 783-0163.

Born Two Birth Film Event

2010-11-08T22:00:00.000-08:00

Join us for an educational documentary of natural childbirth. This presentation provides a view of a complete experience from prenatal preparation through 'live' birth with the mother and father's personal birth stories onto post-partum success.

Born Two Birth utilizes an artistic multimedia collage of a first baby home birth with a midwife, who in this case, delivered her own grandchild! In this unique and candid experience, the viewer is taken on an intimate journey through a process that is raw, natural, and normal.

A discussion and question/answer session to follow with starring mom & dad Kaja Gibbs-Davidson and Matthew Davidson along with midwives Kathe Gibbs (grandmother), Lori Kimata ND, and doula Jaymie Lewis will be present.

This is a great opportunity for couples as well as professionals who are interested in learning more about natural and home childbirth.

We hope you will join us for a great evening. No rsvp necessary.

For more information, please contact borntwobirth@gmail.com or the store at 988-0010.

Frances Moore Lappe in Honolulu!!!!

2010-11-03T20:16:00.000-07:00

Frances Moore Lappe, the world-renowned democracy advocate, author, and food and hunger expert, will be featured at the Umematsu and Yasu Watada Lecture Series on November 5-6 at Church of the Crossroads (1212 University Ave., Honolulu). Lappe is perhaps best known for her groundbreaking book Diet for a Small Planet, in which she exposed the root causes of world hunger and addressed how to end it. Lappe is the co-founder of three organizations including the Small Planet Institute and Food First: The Institute for Food and Development Policy. She has received numerous national and international awards.

On Friday, November 5 at 7:00 p.m., Lappe will speak about "Food Democracy: Ideas and Stories to Liberate Our Food Systems" at Church of the Crossroads. On Saturday, November 6 at 9:00 a.m., Lappe will speak about a "Diet for a Small Island: Visioning Food Democracy in Hawai'i." Four panelists will join LappÈ on Saturday: State Senator Carol Fukunaga, Eric Enos (Ka'ala Farms), Dr. Ted Radovich (University of Hawai'i College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources), and Hi'ilei Kawelo (Paepae o He'eia).

Lappe also will be featured at the University of Hawai'i Distinguished Lecture Series. On Thursday, November 4 at 7:00 p.m., LappÈ will speak about "Facts and Myths of World Hunger: The Politics of Scarcity" at the UH Manoa Architecture Auditorium. On Friday, November 5 at 12:30 p.m., she will speak about "Challenging Cheap Food/Big Food" at the UH Manoa Kuykendall 101 Auditorium. The lectures are free and open to the public.

New Carriers

2010-11-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

Two of our bestselling soft structured carrier companies (Beco and Ergo) have recently come out with exciting new products. So, what’s new and how are they different from the originals?

Our Boo! Bash

2010-10-31T22:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who joined us for our Boo! Bash. We had a great time and LOVED all the costumes!!

More Halloween Fun This Weekend!

2010-10-28T18:07:00.000-07:00

Head over to the Makiki Community Library on Halloween Sunday to enjoy some spirited storytelling and costume parade!

Makiki Community Library

at the Makiki District Park
1527 Keeaumoku Street

Sunday October 31st
2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Check-in at 1:45 p.m.

While our neighborhood Manoa Public Library is under renovation, go a few blocks over and down Punahou Street to Makiki where you can get your book fix and more. The Makiki Community Library is an independent non-profit organization with a long history dating back to the 1970s. According to their archives, President Obama's grandmother was one of the original board members who volunteered a lot of her time to develop this library for the Makiki district. Currently with only a small part-time staff and lots of volunteers, this library is truly a community, grass-roots endeavor that is sustained by a lot of love and dedication to creating a great gathering space.

A Green Halloween

2010-10-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

By Kate Stilwell

This year, why not put a spin on the old orange and black and go GREEN? Treat your body and the environment well this Halloween season!

Let’s talk food (because that’s my favorite part). Halloween can wreak havoc on our teeth and our waistlines, not to mention what happens to our nerves after the kids ingest a bucket of sweets. This Halloween, make some treats at home and avoid the yuck in the bucket.

Honey and Apples
This is a favorite treat of mine, the fall apples are delicious and honey provides the extra sweet that can satisfy that candy craving. For a creepy twist, add some red food coloring to the honey and create “blood” dipping sauce for your little vampires.

Carrots and Dip
Turn the carrots into “fingers” by sticking almond slices to the tops with extra dip and watch the delicious treats disappear.

Pumpkin Seeds
Nothing more classic than this. Take the insides of your brand new jack-o-lantern, rinse and dry the seeds and then bake with salt at 350º!

Cheese Pieces
Take some cheese sticks (I prefer organic, the mozzarella always seems stronger to me) and cut little lines to make finger creases. Add some green bell pepper pieces to the tops to make moldy fingernails.

Guacamole
Make some monster goo to dip chips in. Two ripe avocados, a tasty mango, half a red bell pepper, small handful of cilantro, ¼ of a small red onion, lime and salt to taste and you have a scary treat that’s sweet and salty.

Decorations?

No problem! Halloween happens every year, so why not spend some time to make decorations that you can re-use? Your wallet and the environment will love you for it!

Felt Bats in a Tree

Materials:
    o    Black felt (number of pieces depends on how many you want and how big you want them)
    o    Fabric Marker
    o    Bat cutout shape
    o    Fabric Scissors
    o    Wire and wire cutters
    o    Multi-branched stick (with or without leaves, up to you)
    o    Hot Glue

Cut out the shape you want, trace it on the felt and use the fabric scissors to cut out the desired shape. Hot glue the wire to the felt and the wrap the wire around the branch so that the bat hovers above it in mid-flight. Add tons of bats for a creepier atmosphere.

Variations/Hints
    -the way you attach the wire will change the shape of the bat. Try gluing the wire flat along the bottom of the wings and bend the wings up and down for variations among your critters
    -if you don’t have a glue gun, sew two of the bats together and put the wire inside to achieve the same result
    -get a smaller stick and attach one bat that you can hold and dangle in front of people for a Halloween scare

Crepe Paper Pumpkins

Materials:
    o    Orange and green crepe paper
    o    Stuffing (of your choosing)
    o    Glue (hot glue works best)

Cut or rip squares of the orange crepe paper place stuffing in the center and fold corners and sides up and into the middle. Place a dot of glue to hold it all together and add a torn piece of green crepe paper to the top as a leaf or stem (and the cover the glue).

Variations/Hints
    -you can stuff the pumpkin with pumpkin seeds or some other small treat and make it a take home gift/treat
    -make sure before you put the dot of glue that the shape is relatively pumpkin-like, you can’t alter it after the glue has been applied without risking ripping the paper
    -crepe paper is not sturdy, handle it minimally
    -try multiple layers of tissue paper instead of crepe paper instead and make bigger pumpkins

Ghastly Ghosts
Materials:
    o    An old white sheet
    o    Fabric scissors
    o    String
    o    Stuffing (old plastic bags work well)
    o    Black fabric marker

Use the fabric scissors to cut a square of white fabric (choose size according to how big you want your ghosts). Use the blade of the scissors to tatter the edges of the fabric and add some hole near the edges. Place the stuffing in the middle of the fabric, tie the string around the outside and cinch closed. Tie a knot and cut close to the knot to hide it. Use the fabric marker to draw a ghastly face.

Variations/Hints
    -Put a small hole in the top and tie a string through it so that you can hang your ghosts all over the house
    -Use more than one piece of fabric to give the ghost more flowy pieces on the bottom

General Ideas
    -When you go trick-or-treating, use a pillowcase or reusable bag instead of buying something plastic.
    -Substitute fruits for sweets, they satisfy the craving without the guilt and the craziness
    -Try composting your pumpkins after they’ve lost their creepy smiles
    -Share costumes with friends so you don’t have to buy new ones or make your own out of recycled and pre-worn clothing/found objects
    -And as always, go local/organic on all your yummies… your body and the earth will appreciate you

I also offer party planning for kids and grown-ups, anything from a small, catered get-together to a big birthday bash!! Please e-mail for details.

See you all at our Boo! Bash on Saturday!

Baby A's Unique Lactation Services

2010-10-22T02:40:00.000-07:00

Our very own Nicky Lawnsby, beloved by many moms and babies, is featured on Hawaii Web TV this month!

As you know, Nicky is our in-house lactation consultant but she is so much more than that.

As a bilingual (English and Japanese) British certified-Nurse Midwife, Nicky is able to help both the local and Japanese community here in Honolulu. She really understands and connects with the needs of mums and babies, providing the highest level of care through a process of holistic and informed choices. Nicky is also one of the few International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) on Oahu, which means she specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding issues including complications, breast massage, and mum and baby nutrition. She also offers pre- and post-natal consultation and education.

Nicky has an interesting and well-respected background in midwifery work with her experience stemmed in over three generations and a long lineage of medical family members. Her grandmother was an amazing midwife who not only delivered her, but also delivered/attended over 5,000 natural births in her small birthing home in Japan. Her mother also practiced midwifery for over 30 years with her father as an obstetrician and gynecologist, and her grandfather was a pediatrician. So needless to say, right from the start, Nicky was surrounded by birthing, nurturing, and natural parenting.

Nicky deeply believes that natural birth, breast feeding, and parenting, are ALL natural god-given rights. Women need to know how to successfully accomplish these goals and that is her mission. Only then can woman be empowered to be happy, confident and proud.
On top of all that she does for moms and their little ones, she is the co-owner of Baby Awearness and manages the business along with Ashley Lukens.

You can find both a Japanese and English version of the story. Many thanks to Shinogu Sato of Hawaii Web TV for the web coverage!

Let’s Talk Dolls With Julliet Lowe

2010-10-20T16:10:00.000-07:00

What makes dolls so magical?

Dolls are the last toys out there in the world of talking creatures that even adults can still hear.

Most adults have lost touch with their childhood and through the help of a doll, this magical world awakens again. When your doll speaks, everything else joins in, soft toys, pets, and households appliances.

As parents/ storytellers, we have the opportunity to open gates to a world where animals talk and inanimate objects have their own stories to tell. Here is a world where everything is alive. Dolls provide an awesome outlet to explore with your young child regarding all of life’s challenges and how we relate to them.

To give a doll to your child, symbolically, you are saying, “ This is your first of tasks, the care for your essential self.” A doll is often the first real responsibility in the life of a child. I recall both my children taking the time to feed their dolls, change their clothes, and turn them into wonderful companions. This exchange brings baby “alive” and through this care, taps into the child’s higher self and mission in the world. When they threw their babies around, I gently reminded them that babies are treated with loving hands and they picked up their babies with care and tucked them to sleep in their doll beds. It is with this attention that the doll remains alive. It is when the doll is thrown in a drawer or buried in a pile that the doll dies.

Dolls may help us talk to our children about death, environment, terrible noises, war, life, hope, and questions that cannot be answered.

The ideal doll is a simple one without much detail. A doll with a simple face is able to mirror all your child’s moods and can express anything. Happiness, sadness, fear, anger, etc. It is really hard to imagine a doll being sad when there is a happy face painted permanently on their face.
Again, simple is best. Imagine a doll that may grow with your child, laugh and cry with your child. This is a magical doll.

Here is an example of a parent using their child’s doll, “Sally” to create a story;

“Sally the doll sat in the laundry leaning against the sink tap.
‘Don’t you ever get dizzy?’ She asked.’ Not really,’ said the dryer in a grumbling voice. ‘Just a little hot and bothered.’

‘Where does all the fluff come from?’ asked Sally. ‘Off the clothes of course,’ said the dryer with a giggle.

Sally heard a thump, strangely recurring.’Ohhhhhh,’ said the dryer with a groan,’ I wish she wouldn’t do the sneakers, they give me such a belly ache.”

One more example of a story from a dolls perspective about a child’s doll that disappeared and then resurfaced:

         Guess where I have been?
          I’ve been up in the air on the back of bird.
          I was inside the blue sky.
         A bee flew past and buzzed in my ear.
         Then the bird flew down
         and gently put me
         right back here.

Blessings to you and yours,

Julliet Lowe

Vaccine Lecture

2010-10-17T23:13:00.001-07:00

Sunday, October 24th, 5:30 p.m.

As always by popular request, we present another evening with Dr. Madeleine Portuondo to talk about vaccination for young children.

Dr. Portuondo, local naturopath and midwife, will be repeating the fabulous vaccine safety lecture for those of you who missed it the first couple of times. Dr. Portuondo is a wealth of knowledge and the 2-hour lecture covers everything from immunology basics to vaccine preservative components and more. It is truly a must-hear event for parents of young children. I was astonished at how little I knew on the topic.

Limited to 25 people so please RSVP to lani@babyawearness if you would like to attend. Cost is $20 person/$35 couple and includes a very comprehensive packet of information.

Get Serious with Bootcamp!

2010-10-14T12:34:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to jump start your fitness routine, slim down for a special event, overcome a plateau, or just get measurable results quickly, Amy Forsyth's Women's Fitness Bootcamps in Honolulu are for you! These programs are for women of all ages and abilities; the workouts are structured so that no one will be asked to do more than they are able to do safely nor will anyone be unchallenged! This 4 week program combines resistance training, cardio, plyometrics, and Pilates based stretching to deliver dramatic fat loss, as well as gains in strength, endurance, flexibly, energy, and confidence. Every day is a different workout, so you won't get bored and your progress won't plateau.

There are two locations running Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The Manoa Valley camp meets from 5:30am to 6:30am and the Aina Haina camp meets from 8:30am to 9:30am. It's early, but the energy boost you'll get will carry you through your day.

For further information or to enroll please contact Amy at amy@honolulupersonaltrainer.com or (808)-783-2558

Upcoming sessions run from Monday, October 25- Friday, November 19 and Monday November 29 - Friday, December 24.

Mention Baby Awearness when you enroll for a $10 discount off the cost of a full session. (The retail price of a 12 class session is $180.)

Boo! Bash

2010-10-14T03:20:00.000-07:00

MARK YOUR CALENDARS and kickstart your Halloween weekend with Baby A!

The BOO! Bash at Baby Awearness
Manoa Marketplace, 2nd Floor (2752 Woodlawn Dr # 5-212, Honolulu, HI 96822)
Saturday, October 30th, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Bring the whole family for a day of Halloween fun at our BOO! Bash. There will be face painting; healthy treats; music, spirited storytelling; and crafts for all ages. Design your own reusable trick-or-treat bags, create one-of-a-kind fall-themed decorations and more!

Best of all, we will host a fabulous costume contest with great prizes for kids and parents. Participants can take home the prize in the following categories: Best Homemade Costume, Best Pair, Most Creative, Best Animal, and Scariest Costume.

Baby Awearness is a retail store and community space that offers a wide array of free and low-cost educational classes, workshops, and lectures for new parents. Baby Awearness is Hawaii’s top location for eco-friendly and natural parenting products such as cloth diapers, baby carriers, wooden toys, and eco-friendly/non-toxic household items. We also offer a full-time in-store lactation consultant to support mothers through breastfeeding.

Our mission is to provide parents with a place to connect with professionals and with other parents, empowering Hawaii’s families to raise their children and contribute towards a greener, healthier, happier community.

For more information, visit www.babyawearness.com, or call 808.988.0010.

Healthy Mamas Make Healthy Babies!

2010-10-13T03:39:00.000-07:00

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture
Pregnancy Nutrition

Sunday, October 17th
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Led by: Kate Greenweel

Cost: FREE!

How what we eat affects the growth and development of our babies
Which foods to devour and which foods to avoid
Fact vs. Fiction when it comes to the safety of certain foods, supplements, and products during pregnancy
Key nutrients -- what are they, what do they do, and how to ensure you are getting enough
Tools to combat morning sickness and constipation
Tricks to keep weight gain on target
The low down on pregnancy complications: Gestational Diabetes, Preeclampsia

Organic Birth - Film screening on Oct 16th

2010-10-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

Hapai Hawai`i presents a film screening of Organic Birth (52 mins)
Saturday, October 16th at 6:45 p.m.
Cost: Free

ORGANIC BIRTH is a tighter, 52-minute updated version of the original 85-minute ORGASMIC BIRTH film. It has new expanded Midwife content and focuses more on the benefits of Midwife-Assisted and Natural Birth options than the original film. This shorter length will work better when used in Childbirth Education and it has easier chapter navigation for quickly accessing specific topics or scenes.

Immediately following we'll have a talk story with Piper and Chaz Lovemore who star in the film as well as other birth professionals.

*Bring your own refreshments, nursing babies in arms welcome

Frances Moore Lappe Coming to Honolulu!

2010-10-11T17:13:00.000-07:00

A great opportunity to meet a revolutionary leader in the alternative food movement -- Frances Moore Lappe will be presenting a series of lectures at the University of Hawaii at Manoa on November 4th and 5th. Mark your calendar!

日本語でのマクロビオティッククラスお菓子教室のお知らせ

2010-10-07T20:02:00.000-07:00

みなさま～
お久しぶりです
マクロビオティッククラスの美佐先生のアシスタントのかおりです
まだまだ暑いハワイですが～
皆様いかがお過ごしですか？

マクロビオティッククラスのお知らせです
前回のレタスラップ！すっごい好評だったのですが～参加できなかった方
残念でした～
今回はデザート編です

秋なんです！
そしてもうすぐハロウィンなんです
でもそこらで売っているパンプキンパイって砂糖がた～っぷり
添加物た～～っぷり！
自分にも家族にも食べさせたくないっと思っている方多いいのでは？
そこで登場！マクロビオティックのパンプキンパイです
かぼちゃの甘さで懐かしい味に仕上がっています
が、普通食の人が食べてもちゃんとおいしくなっていますからご安心を～

2品目は鉄分たっぷりブラウニー
砂糖不使用です

今回は両方ともベーキングパウダーなどの膨らし粉を一切使っていません
私達もベーキングパウダーを使うのですがあんまり採りたくはありません
どうしてか？っと言うと…ま、そこのとこはクラスで先生からお聞きくださいませｍ＿＿ｍ
とにかくヘルシーでおいしいですよ～
今まで美佐先生は調味料の事を熱く語ってきたのですが～今回は特に
白砂糖、などの白い粉類についてどこが悪いのかなどをまたまた熱く語っていただきましょう～！

メニュー
＊マクロビパンプキンパイ
＊鉄分たっぷりプルーンブラウニー

　＋＋有機三年番茶付き＆レシピ

Class Date: Oct 17, 2010
Time:11:30AM~1:30AM(今回時間がいつもと違っておりますのでご注意を＾＾）
Fee: Pre-Paid　$25
　　　　　Walk in $30
　　　　　Max 10 People (First come first serve)
＊ご注意＊ライビリティーと安全にクラスをお受けしていただくために（13ヶ月以上の）お子様との参加はご遠慮ねがいます。
（内容は予告なしに変更することがありますがご了承ください）

マクロビオティックのお料理の先生のご紹介
三好美佐、兵庫県出身
高校卒業後、料理界の東大「辻調理師専門学校」を卒業し日本料理の世界へ
５年前にマクロビオティックに出会いスクールに通う。本人もマクロビオティック実践者
マクロビオティックを実践してから半年で無理なく１３キロを落とし不整脈などの病気も克服
今はマクロビオティックのカフェをハワイに開く為に準備中♪
☆Mahalo☆

Diet for a Small Island Film Series

2010-10-04T00:18:00.000-07:00

Come watch three inspiring films on food, agriculture, and democracy!

"Diet for a Small Island" Pre-lecture film series on food democracy
Monday nights at 7:00 PM at Church of the Crossroads, Weaver Hall

October 4 (Mon) 7pm
Ingredients: the local food movement in the US (73 min)
Discussion to follow with Robert Bates, documentary film maker.

October 11 (Mon) 7 pm
Power of Community: How Cuba survived peak oil (53 min)
Discussion to follow with Travis Idol, Associate Professor of Tropical
Forestry at UH.

October 25 (Mon) 7 pm
Malama Haloa: Protecting the taro (39 min)
Discussion to follow with Mark Stride, Hawaiian homestead farmer.
Film series will conclude with talks on November 5th and 6th featuring
Frances Moore Lappé, author of 18 books including Diet for a Small
Planet.

Films are free and open to public. Both talks are at Church of the
Crossroads, 1212 University Avenue, Honolulu. Tel: 808-949-2220.

For more information about the Watada Lectures Series, visit our blog

For the film series, please email Travis Idol at traviswidol@gmail.com.

Baby Guru Presents CPR Workshop

2010-09-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

Tips for New Moms

2010-09-25T13:55:00.000-07:00

Words of Wisdom from Real Mothers at La Leche League Meetings

From The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, 8^th edition

· Newborns don’t look like magazine babies.

· A dirty house builds extra immunities.

· Wait long enough and it will change, and the questions and answers will be different.

· Sometimes the books are just wrong.

· A dog is an excellent floor cleaner.

· The ideal adult-to-baby ratio is about three to one in the first week.

· When people offer help, say yes.

· Listen to your baby. Respect him and his intuition. He will tell you what he needs.

· You can only do what you can do.

· Step outside when you can, throw your shoulders back, take a deep breath, and look up for at least a few seconds.

· It’s important to see other babies, so you know what’s normal.

· Join a playgroup. It’s not for the child, it’s for the mother.

Dr. Mom to the Rescue!

2010-09-23T00:54:00.000-07:00

We recently got wind about a very cool local mom who is not only doing good in our community but also being quite innovative and generous while making this difference.

Meet Dr. Mom Hawaii aka Dr. Deb Nojima, who is also a pediatrician with Castle Medical Center. She has been offering home visits in lieu of parents taking the standard route to the Emergency Room. Since we here at Baby A love old-fashioned traditions (i.e., cloth diapering, for example), we applaud anyone who also brings a bit of retro-culture back to life. We on Oahu are so lucky to have the option of having house calls by a doctor once again because of her.

Below, Dr. Nojima kindly took time out of her busy schedule to have a conversation with us about her new medical service as well as thoughts about being a mom.

BA: We love the idea of revisiting the days when a doctor made house calls. You shared a bit about how you were inspired in your personal message, but was it like a revelation you had one day to try it? How did you start this service?

I really was inspired by the incident with my croupy 2 year-old, which was really scary for me even being a physician! I also take the "mom" part of Dr. Mom Hawaii as seriously, if not MORE seriously than the "Dr" part. We moms are really, really BUSY. Not only are we caring for our kids, but we often do most of the housekeeping, financing, shopping, cooking, cleaning, etc. If you work outside the home, then you must fit that into the mix also. Our schedules are tight and sometimes an important need like a sick child can throw our lives into chaos! The last thing that you want to do after a hard day's work is pack up a sick, feverish, tired child into the car and rush down to an ER where you might have to sit for hours for treatment that may have been urgent but NOT a true emergency. Then, after all is said and done, you come back home and try to get everyone fed, watered, and to bed to start another day at the crack of dawn.

I was hoping that I could be of some help. Imagine the same scenario, except that your child can stay home and rest while you are still able to care for the rest of your family's needs. I show up at the agreed upon time and diagnose and prescribe treatment for your child AND to write an on-the-spot doctor's excuse note for school and your place of employment. On top of that, you are able to ask all your questions and feel absolutely comfortable with your child's condition and what you can do to make it better without feeling rushed or harried.

BA: What's been most gratifying about offering this service?

Meeting people and families where they are the most comfortable is extremely rewarding to me. I also feel that parents are more likely to ask questions in a familiar environment which is conducive to learning and exchanging vital information. I love to talk story with other moms. I find I learn a lot from them and find each interaction invaluable!

BA: Do you foresee a trend to bring home visits by doctors again, or are you pretty much the only one (on island or elsewhere) doing this?

There has been a small but growing movement of concierge type services where a patient pays a "yearly fee" for the right for visits from their doctor at any time during the year. Most of these memberships are quite pricey in the thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. The yearly membership fee ensures that the doctor keeps the number of patients low so he/she is available for her or his exclusive clientele. I "tweaked" this model a little. There is no membership fee but I only see "ill" children. I don't do well child check-ups or vaccinations. These very important appointments are best provided by a patient's primary care physician who may chart a patient's physical, emotional, and intellectual development over a long period of time.

I don't think other physicians will be interested in doing this type of work UNLESS a yearly membership fee was involved because the "take home" pay per hour of work is less than 50-75% of what an office-based physician can make. Most pediatricians these days see between 5-8 patients in an hour. I can only fit in about 4 patients in a typical "8 to 5" work day and that is only provided that the visits are geographically close to each other. Throw in the extra cost of insurance, gas, and wear and tear on a vehicle and many docs would say it's not worth it.

BA: What's your favorite part of being a mom?

Being a mom is JUST fun. I credit my boys for making me a much better person and in turn, a much better physician. It takes more than knowing how to use medications and diagnose illnesses to be a good doctor. Communication and LISTENING is the KEY. Before a physician asks themselves how to treat a particular patient, they must ask why the patient (or rather the parent of the patient) is seeking care and prioritize a patient's and the parents' concerns. Being a mom helps me to do that as a doctor.

On a more personal note, I love the fact that my boys treat and live each day in the moment. They teach me every waking moment that "the here and now" is invaluable: so laugh, joke, jump, play, make weird noises, be yourself, cry, run though the mud, make your hair crazy, LIVE IT ~ life is NOT a spectator sport!

Check Out This Ad

2010-09-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

introducing the new midwifery services available at Kaiser Moanalua ~

and don't forget to also check out our Healthy Pregnancy Lecture this upcoming Sunday 9/26 at 6:30 p.m.

One of Kaiser's certified nurse-midwives Reagan Turner Bell, along with Dr. Madeleine Portuando (from our popular vaccine lecture), will be sharing information and their thoughts about helping women birth babies, whether at home or in a hospital setting!

For more information about our Healthy Pregnancy Lecture series, go here.

Experience HOPE on September 30th

2010-09-22T18:07:00.000-07:00

Parents are encouraged and welcome to learn more about how to address the subject of sex and sexuality with their children. At some point in all of our parenting journey, there will be a time when you have to have this conversation. Planned Parenthood of Hawaii can help you feel comfortable and confident to do so and will share tips and information in this upcoming workshop. To register, click here.

Sitter City, A Mom's Best Friend

2010-09-19T17:57:00.000-07:00

Run out of favors and "get out of the house" free cards from friends and family so you can enjoy a night out or simply have a break?

Let Sitter City come to your rescue

Understandably, one of the more challenging tasks as a parent is finding the perfect babysitter or caregiver to leave your children with. While no one else can really equal a mother's love for her own, it's definitely a relief to know that there are nice people out there who are dependable, responsible, and qualified to care for babies and young children.

Founded by iVillage babysitting expert Genevieve Thiers, this nationwide sitter-finding service website allows parents and sitters to create an online profile complete with photo. Its search for matches includes more than 30 criteria. Ease and safety are assured with a four-step screening process, obtainable references, background checks, and customer reviews.

Sitter City also offers registered nannies, pet and house sitters, elder care providers and tutors.

Back By Popular Demand: Boob Guru's Intro to Breastfeeding for Pregnant Moms

2010-09-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

When: Sunday, October 3rd at 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Led by: Baby A's very own boob guru Naoko "Nicky" Lawnsby
Cost: $20 per person / $35 per couple

Learn all about breastfeeding from Honolulu's boob guru Nicky Lawnsby!

In this class, you will gain important knowledge to help mothers successfully feed their baby nature's way:

    * The basics of breastfeeding your newborn: latching, positioning, and breastfeeding cues
    * The basic anatomy and physiology of breastfeeding
    * The myths of breastfeeding
    * What to expect in the hospital and at home
    * How to prepare for returning to work

Partners are strongly encouraged to attend.

Nicky is Baby Awearness's full-time, in-store lactation consultant who specializes in the very effective technique of traditional Japanese lactation massage. Nicky is also an IBCLC certified Lactation Consultant and has over 20 years of experience in midwifery, breastfeeding, and women's health.

To reserve a spot at the lecture, please contact 988-0010 or lani@babyawearness.com Preference will be given to those with due date in 2010. Maximum attendance is 10 people. Waitlist will be available on a first-come basis.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you cannot make the lecture and need help with breastfeeding, Nicky is available for personal, one-on-one consultations. Please contact Lani Lee at 988-0010 to schedule an appointment.

Healthy Pregnancy Lecture on Sept 26th

2010-09-16T18:35:00.000-07:00

This month's topic will explore an expecting mother's options to have a home or hospital birth with a midwife.

Sunday, September 26th
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Led by: Dr. Madeleine Portuando and Reagan Turner Bell

Cost: FREE!

Curious about having a birth experience with a midwife? Whether at home or a hospital setting, you can have the birth of your choice with one of Honolulu's finest practicing midwives. Though the natural birthing community is still small in Hawaii, it is a growing circle that includes seasoned midwives who can guide expecting parents through a personal, meaningful, and healthy labor and delivery.

Join us for a conversation and Q & A session with two of Honolulu's midwives. Dr. Portuando is a local naturopathic doctor and midwife who also leads our very popular vaccine lecture. Reagan Turner Bell practices with the new midwifery services available at Kaiser Medical Center.

To reserve a spot at the lecture, please contact 988-0010 or lani@babyawearness.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Next month: Pregnancy Nutrition with Kate Greenwell, October 17th

Happiest Baby On the Block Workshop

2010-09-14T18:05:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to offer our very first Happiest Baby Workshop on Sunday Oct 3rd!
To register, please contact Michelle Richardson at 366-8111 or the store at 988-0010.

Organic Nursing Sleep Bra

2010-09-13T04:25:00.000-07:00

A perennial favorite around here, the organic nursing sleep bra from 1 in the Oven by Mayreau is back in stock at Hot Mama Maternity. Stop by to pick yours up while they last. It's soft as a cloud and ultra comfortable. A perfect fit for lounging around the house and nursing baby. Available in light blue only. $44

Calling for Swap Volunteers!

2010-09-11T01:48:00.000-07:00

Now that you know how the clothing swap works, how about working the swap?

We are looking for a few good mamas to help us set-up, work during the event, and break down at the end. There are two shifts available -- 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. or 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. on September 30th.

Please contact Amanda at 783-1407 or Lani at 988-0010 to sign up as a volunteer!

Mom & Baby Clothing Swap!

2010-09-07T18:18:00.000-07:00

The next Hot Mama Networking Event is coming up on September 30th at 6:30 p.m.!

Here are our simple 1-2-3's of swapping with style and ease:

1) LET IT GO!!!
Clean out your closet of gently used/brand new clothes, bags and accessories that you don't fit and haven't worn in the past 6 months. Once you have completed your closet move on to your little ones closet and do the same thing. Remember, what you think is your trash is sure to be someone else's treasure! Assist us in making this process easier by separating and labeling your clothing by size. (you can separate it in different bags, or by putting a piece of masking tape on the item with the size. This will make our job a LOT easier!

2) DROP IT!!!
Drop all of your labeled and separated clean clothes, bags, and accessories to Baby Awearness/Hot Mama during normal business hours September 20-26, 2010. Your items will be added to the mix and you'll receive a "pass" for attending the swap free of charge.

3) SWAP IT!!!
On September 30th, get ready to swap with your fellow hot mamas! For anyone who wants to attend the swap but doesn't have items to swap, you can still attend. We are asking you to make a $10 donation in exchange for a bag you can fill with whatever you want. All the proceeds from the event and the left over items will go to The Mary Jane House. For everyone else, the amount of items you take are based on an honor system, so you get to take home the same amount of items you brought. We greatly encourage everyone to BYOB. Bring your own reusable tote bag(s) to take home your new wardrobe.

Get Your Body Back After Baby!

2010-09-02T20:50:00.000-07:00

Workshop with Sarah Rhinelander, Advanced Rolf Practioner
Sunday September 12 at 11:00 a.m. at Baby Awearness
$12 per person

To reserve your space, please call 808-927-1707

Sage Mamas Making A Difference

2010-09-01T23:37:00.000-07:00

Daniela Kittinger of the Farm to Highchair Project

fresh pureed foods for baby

Debuting a new healthy baby food business in our community is Daniela Kittinger, mom and muse behind the Farm to Highchair Project. The Farm to Highchair Project is a unique and wonderful endeavor to bring fresh, healthy -- and oftentimes organic -- meals for little ones made with tenderness, care, and lots of flavor. Many of you may recognize Daniela as she is a familiar face at Baby aWEARness, helping out at our events and classes.

We are excited to highlight her efforts and ingenuity to pull together this noble project.

Daniela shares about her inspiration behind the project:
I truly believe that food is at the core of community health. Like most people, I enjoy modern conveniences, but I’ve noticed that many come at the expense of healthy lifestyles and a healthy community. The obesity epidemic, environmental degradation, and entire communities left voiceless and disenfranchised—could these all be somehow connected? Food is not only what links us all together, I also believe it is at the root of many of our society’s woes.

The idea for Farm to Highchair was born when I began feeding my baby solids. I knew that with my love for and commitment to all things food, that I could not feed him over-processed, store-bought substitutes. Not when Hawai’i farmers have so much fresh, locally-grown produce to offer year-round!

That being said, I do live in the real world. I understand that—even with the best of intentions—today’s busy moms simply don’t have the time or energy to make baby food from scratch every day. So I’ve decided to give back. The Farm to Highchair Project aspires to provide healthy, freshly prepared and conveniently available baby food, from Hawai’i farmers. Everyone deserves the opportunity to give their keiki the healthiest possible start!

For more information, check out her website here, or pick up a flyer at the store next time you're in. Currently, the project is seeking testers to help with product development.

Big Day Tomorrow!

2010-08-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

Here's a time line of all the festivities. Pick out your favorites or stay for the entire day!

Baby A Sneak Peek at

2010-08-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

Maki Arts, who will be at our sidewalk sale with her handmade toys. These lovable creatures are sewn, needle felted, and crafted with love in Hawaii . . .

Anniversary Sneak Peek of ...

2010-08-25T17:20:00.000-07:00

The Felt Commissary's new felt foods! These and more at our sidewalk sale this Saturday.

Time to go grocery shopping . . .

More Anniversary Sneak Peeks ...

2010-08-24T17:12:00.000-07:00

Little Dew Drops will be selling exclusive designs of tees and onesies at the sidewalk sale. Check out a few of her newest designs:

Baby A Sneak Peek presents . . .

2010-08-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

Cute paintings by local artist and mama-preneur Patty Elligott.

Perfect for the nursery or play room. Find these and more at our Anniversary Celebration Event on Saturday 8/28!

Sage Mamas Making A Difference

2010-08-20T14:15:00.000-07:00

Gwen Trowbridge
Founder & CEO of Baby Guru, LLC

As we gear up for Gwen to teach Sign, Say & Play, a baby sign language workshop starting September 2nd at the store, she was also kind enough to take a few moments out of her busy schedule to share some thoughts about being a mommy of two healthy and handsome boys as well as a career woman. Gwen was also one of the twelve finalists in our very first Hot Mama Hawaii Contest earlier this year. We have a lot to learn from her example of poise and wisdom.

Baby Guru has such a great concept and mission (I especially love the Mommy Personal Shopper service). How did you even begin to start your own business while still being a new parent yourself?
I was the Marketing Director for PacificBasin Communications (Publishers of HONOLULU Magazine, Hawaii Business Magazine among others) and I loved my job, but was struggling with balancing my career with my family after I had my first son. I wanted to find something with more flexibility, which meant taking the leap to start my own business. I also wanted to make sure it was something I was passionate about because otherwise I would regret taking time away from my family for my career. At that time I was having a difficult time finding resources and classes for new parents so I decided to try to fill that void. I was actually pregnant with my second son while I was getting trained and certified for a lot of my services and it reinforced my determination to launch this company to help parents keep their keiki safe, healthy and happy! It’s truly a labor of love!

It's natural for parents to always be thinking of ways to take care of baby that we often forget to take care of ourselves. As a working mother, how do you balance your work life, personal time, and being a caretaker?
It is so true that it is difficult for moms, whether working or stay-at-home moms, to take care of themselves. It’s a struggle for all of us to fulfill our expectations to be the best parent, wife, friend, worker, etc. I talk to so many moms in my business and we’re so hard on ourselves and often each other! I have to remind myself often of the advice I give to other moms...we’re a better mom, wife, worker, and every other role we take on, if we take time for ourselves. It’s important to do those things that fulfill you beyond your family and career... whether it’s going to a yoga class, having a shopping day with your girlfriend or a date night with your husband. There is always more work to do esp. when owning your own business because it’s hard to shut it off. I have to force myself to put it aside and focus on my family and also schedule time for myself separately. If it’s on my calendar like an appointment I’ll make sure it happens!

When you have that free moment to indulge yourself (hopefully at least once in a blue moon), what is a sans-kid activity that you like to do?
I recently trained with Team in Training to run the San Diego Marathon in honor of my mom who is battling leukemia. As a non-runner it was a huge challenge for me, but running became an indulgence for me because it was time alone and a way for me to incorporate fitness back into my life. And to pamper myself I love a good pedicure!

What's your favorite part of being a mother of young children?
It’s those moments where they make you feel like the most important person in the world, like when my older son Tanner said the other day that I am cooler than all the Transformers in the world (I actually teared up!) or when my baby Chase holds onto me like a koala bear and we’re almost one person. It makes all those tough moments disappear!

Baby Guru must be evolving as you are evolving, learning, and growing as a family. Anything new or exciting on the horizon we can look forward to? New classes or services, or events?
I am very excited to be working on a cookbook that will feature recipes for baby purees & toddler foods with a regional flare. I will be writing all of the tips, how to's and overview of food safety, benefits of making homemade baby/toddler food and recipes for basic baby purees; Pediatrician Dr. Michael Sia will be writing the sections on food transitions, nutrition and allergies; and local chefs who are also parents will be providing recipes on complex baby purees, finger foods and toddler meals. The daily experience around the dining table is an important one; it’s where a family gets its nutrition and where the family unit is cherished. I hope this cookbook will inspire parents from the start to emphasize the importance of both by cooking healthy, homemade meals. It will be released in summer 2011 by Mutual Publishing. This cookbook is my next baby!

Mother-to-Mother Support for Breastfeeding Moms

2010-08-19T02:20:00.000-07:00

Did you know there are free local breastfeeding information and support groups on Oahu through La Leche League? La Leche League is a non-profit, non-sectarian organization dedicated to helping mothers breastfeed through mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information and education. Accredited leaders are available to help mothers in person, through e-mail and over the phone.

LLL holds monthly meetings open to any woman interested in breastfeeding. At the meetings, you’ll find new moms, experienced moms, moms of twins, military moms, working moms and moms-to-be. Any questions are welcome and leaders have current and accurate information to help you, along with plenty of wisdom and support from the group if you need it. Babies are always welcome at meetings and you don’t have to become a member or sign up ahead of time.

More about LLL:
La Leche League was founded by seven breastfeeding mothers in 1956. These mothers noticed many other moms saying to them, “I tried to breastfeed, but I couldn’t…” and they decided to get together and invite pregnant friends and new moms to exchange information and support for breastfeeding. The organization grew quickly and today, La Leche League International has over 3,000 groups in 68 countries around the world. www.llli.org

To find information on leaders and groups in Hawaii, visit our website.

Babywearing Hula Class at Baby A

2010-08-15T23:22:00.000-07:00

Free Preview Class: September 13, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

By long-reigning popular request, Baby Awearness is happy to finally offer Babywearing Hula Class!

Taught by Kumu Hula Maile Loo, this hula class offers a way for moms to get exercise with their babies, enjoy unique bonding time, and surround their babies with beautiful music and soothing rhythms.

This one-hour hula class will include stretching, "mom" talk-story, a good 40 minutes of dancing (with water breaks), and then end with stretching and "unwind talk story" for the last 10 minutes.

Previous hula experience is not necessary, so beginners are welcome.

Babywearing hula is a great way for moms to do something meaningful with their babies and for themselves as well as to enjoy social interaction with other moms.

There are no baby age requirements or preferences on the type of carrier you wear. As long as you can put your baby in a carrier, you can come.

4-week session on Mondays:
Sept 20, Sept 27, Oct 4 and Oct 11
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Cost: $40 per person

Drop-in class: $12 per person

To sign up, please contact Kumu Maile at bhula@hula.net.

You may also sign up at the store with a cash or check payment (made out to Maile Loo).

Sage Mamas Making A Difference

2010-08-12T02:10:00.000-07:00

Sway Davis of Naughty Nappies™

As we gear up for our anniversary celebration on 8/28, we want to build the excitement with some sneak peeks along the way.

We will be having a fabulous sidewalk sale during our anniversary event. Six local vendors -- all talented, unique crafters -- will be selling their lovely handmade wares (seemingly a rarity these days). Be sure to stop by to see their creations, everything from toys to jewelry to hand-painted organic tees.

One of our favorite mamas participating at the sidewalk sale is Sway of Naughty Nappies™.

Self-described as "ecologically fashionable, cloth diapers made with love," Naught Nappies™ is quickly building a following of moms. If you're looking for some cool, hip, one-of-a-kind original diapers with the couture touch, then Sway is the one to seek.

Recently, Sway was kind enough to take a moment from her sewing to chat with us about her life as a cloth-diapering mom who also happens to make cloth diapers for a living:

BA: Please share how Naughty Nappies was born.

NN: We started cloth diapering our baby when he was about 2 or 3 weeks old. We used Dolphin Diaper Service for about 2 months and decided we were going to slowly start building our own stash because we realized it was really easy to wash the diapers ourselves. However, after a while we wanted something other than green and navy.

Babies are in diapers most of the time. Because of the warm weather here in Hawaii, our son always runs around with just a t-shirt and a diaper, and I thought, why not make them fun and fashionable? It was actually my husband who really pushed me to make our first homemade diaper. The first few were made out of old t-shirts. It was exciting and fun for us to see our little man run around with a Transformer diaper on his bum. I kept on with the diaper making and thought it would be cool to have these available for other moms as well as a way to bring in a little extra income.

BA: How do you balance your business, crafting, and mommy life?

NN: I don't! (LOL)Although important, finding a balance in life right now is still a tough thing to do... Our son is now 13 months old and we don't call him Danger Baby for nothing. My husband works long hours so our baby is mostly with me. He requires constant attention when he's up and about so I usually work only when he's napping, after everyone's gone to bed or before he wakes up in the morning. I've never been a morning person, but I found myself liking getting up early, sip on some coffee and sew, it's peaceful.

BA: What inspires you to create, in work or in life?

NN: It just kind of come to me; "stuff" would just pop up in my mind. I've always been interested in fashion and have always wanted to design and make garments. I guess this is a starting point for me, and a lot of times I think of my diapers as "clothes" when I design them. NaughtyNappies Couture line is one example.

I love going to fabric and crafting stores! I'll walk around and look at something and think: "What can I do with this?" "How about that?"

I'm still trying to make that "perfect" diaper, one that's more then just putting fabric pieces together, one that's going to really "wow" but you can throw it in the wash everyday instead of requiring tender care due to delicate materials.

BA: Your diapers are so cool and hip -- people must stop you in the streets and ask you where you bought them, right? What do they say when you tell them that you made them?

NN: Thanks for thinking that =). Well, the few that do think it's really awesome, once in a while you get people asking if I make adult sizes... LOL

BA: Anything new from you we can look forward to at the sidewalk sale on August 28th?

NN: Aside from regular pocket diapers, I will have a very limited numbers of NaughtyNappies Couture available. I will have some organic fitteds as well as will debut our Danger Baby products, which will be mommy and baby-related items, such as organic breast pads and shoulder straps for bags and strollers.

Let’s Talk Toys With Julliet Lowe

2010-08-11T01:13:00.000-07:00

Introducing Camden Rose at Baby Awearness!

“Each item that we sell is meticulously constructed by craftspeople that specialize in their art. Our items are not mass-produced, rather they are created one-by-one, the old-fashioned way. Our toys are constructed to last through multiple generations and the materials that make up the toys are gathered through organized sustainability programs. We use the highest quality materials, all certified non-toxic. Toys made from natural materials such as wood, silk, wool or beeswax have a warm and honest quality that does not give a false impression of weight, mass or touch. It is our responsibility to provide an environment that tells the story of our world honestly and at the same time protects that world."

Unless noted, ALL items offered by Camden Rose are made in the United States with materials gathered from sustainably sources. This is a choice in the protection of our future. By utilizing skilled American craftsmanship we assist in the renaissance of great American manufacturing. We also have assisted in the creation of a Fair Trade worker-owned cooperative outside of Lima, Peru. We diligently work to broaden the notion of family to include everyone in need of assistance. We feel that all people should have equal opportunity to flourish in life.”

This book and block set is simple, yet extremely clever and loads of fun for all! The story was designed to introduce some of the ways in which three simple shapes can be organized to form a wide variety of people, animals and objects. This is not only fun, but also deeply educational, as it increases the capacity for both creativity and geometric thinking. While reading the story, children and adults alike arrange and fit the blocks in the shapes pictured. After reading the story a new story of ones own can be made by tracing new shapes on paper and creating ones own book. From flowers to animals to the moon, the creation of objects is limited only by the imagination.

Our NEW Camden Dolls are crafted with pure wool innards, a cotton shell and cotton clothing. All of the girl dolls have a hairstyle with a matching cloth band that can be undone and the hair can restyled differently. Each doll is packaged with an identity card that tells a story about that particular doll and the Camden Rose Fair Trade Cooperative. Each doll is made by hand by hearing disabled women in our Fair Trade cooperative in Lima, Peru.

Please, E Kipa Mai.” Come Visit Us”

Na Pualani Preschool

2010-08-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

Na Pualani Preschool, located in Kailua, offers the full Waldorf curriculum for the young child, ages 2 and half through 5 years of age; in a child friendly, home environment; featuring toys made from natural materials and a wonderful shaded play yard and organic food.

Na Pualani Preschool is currently enrolling for the fall semester, which begins August 24.

The preschool is also offering a new part-time and full-time schedule that includes the usual 3-day program PLUS a 5-day program and a 2-day program. Auntie Pualani also has hired on a new teacher, Ashley Bodley, a certified Waldorf teacher (read below for her bio).

Our new schedule will begin August 24th
Days in August will be at the rate of $45.00 per day.
Hours of operation: 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Tuition rates are listed below:
2-day program $350.00 a month
3-day program $525.00 a month, discounted tuition for fall semester: $500 per month
5-day program $825.00 a month, discounted tuition for fall semester: $795 per month

For families presently enrolled in the school and new students who join Na Pualani Preschool in August, at the beginning of fall semester, a discount on tuition for the fall semester will apply. Your tuition for the fall semester, which is August, September, October, November and December will be at the discounted rate above.

Want to save more money? You will get $100 off one month's tuition if you bring a family into the school at the beginning of fall semester!

Here is a note from our new teacher, Ashley Bodley. Welcome Ashley!

I am so happy to introduce myself to the community that Auntie Pualani has worked so hard to create! My name is Ashley Bodley and I moved to Hawaii just a year ago from beautiful Anchorage Alaska. I worked in Anchorage at the Aurora Waldorf school in the kindergarten. I have years of experience as a nanny and also had a Waldorf inspired preschool in my home at one point. I attended the Rudolf Steiner College in Fair Oaks, California to complete my Waldorf early childhood teacher training. This summer it has been my pleasure to be the summer camp director at the Waldorf School in Anchorage and I look forward to returning to Hawaii to work and play with your children and Auntie Pualani.

We have spaces available, so let's fill the school with happy families and children!

To enroll, please contact Auntie Pualani; auntiepualani@gmail.com or 262-3253

Ecohashi + Lunch Box Cooking Class = Yum!

2010-08-09T03:43:00.000-07:00

Only one more week left to sign up for Chef Leslie's Back-to-School Lunch Box Cooking Class!

Class Info:
Sunday, August 15th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Cost: $38 per person

Baby Awearness will offer some great savings to class participants who also need to stock up on bento-ware such as our popular Laptop Lunch containers and Ecohashi!

Laptop Lunch products will be 10% off
Ecohashi - Receive $2.00 off when you buy two pairs

Fun with languages continues at Baby Awearness!

2010-08-09T02:38:00.000-07:00

Spanish Sing-Along Classes ~ OPEN HOUSE ~ on August 17th and August 20th

SOL Spanish School is beginning a new session of Spanish-language
classes for young children at Baby Awearness. The Spanish Stories &
Songs classes are geared specifically towards children ages 0-5 years
of age. In each class, teacher(s) will immerse your child in the
Spanish language and Latino culture through singing, playing games,
and reading stories.

Join us for an open house and free preview class on
Tuesday August 17th at 11:00 a.m. and again at 5:00 p.m.
and on Friday August 20th at 11:00 a.m.

Thereafter, SOL Spanish Stories & Songs will be offered weekly on
Tuesdays at 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and on Fridays at 11:00 a.m.

(Classes may be discontinued after October 31st without a minimum
attendance of 4 students)

Class fee: $100 for a 12-classes punch card.

The punchcard may be used by multiple children, for six months, at any of our Spanish classes.

Location: Baby Awearness, Manoa Marketplace, 2nd floor

Sign, Say & Play - A sign language workshop by Baby Guru

2010-08-07T15:24:00.000-07:00

Baby A has loved teaming up with Baby G this summer and we are happy to present another installment of great workshops for the fall.

Sign, Say & Play
A Baby Sign Language Workshop

6-week series on Thursdays, 1:30 - 2:15 p.m.
September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and October 7
Cost: $99 per couple

In this interactive play class, parents and their children will learn the gestures and motions that reprsent the most useful baby signs.

Some of the benefits include:

Allows your infant to communicate specific wants, needs, and thoughts
Reduces frustration for your baby
Strengthens the trust and respect between parent and child
Signing will not delay speech development but rather accelerate it

CPR Workshop
Thursday October 7, 12 noon - 1 p.m.
Cost: $25 for Baby Signs participants or $35 a la carte

This 1-hour CPR review workshop prepares parents to provide immediate emergency attention to an unconscious or choking infant or child. This class will give you peace of mind that you can help your child in case of unforeseen emergencies. This is not a certification course.

To register, contact 561-5705 OR e-mail: gwen@babyguruhawaii.com

Honu Guide 2010

2010-08-06T13:25:00.000-07:00

The year is flying by but don't let it pass without enjoying some great savings in the HonuGuide!

You can find favorite eateries and shops from Peace Cafe to Whole Foods.

But this little booklet is more than a coupon book. It also features great articles and tips about creating a sustainable lifestyle in Hawaii and features some of our most progressive businesses and individuals who are leading the way in green living.

At only $20, it is a fabulous deal! If you're interested, you can pick one up from us.

Baby Awearness has a coupon in there too:
Purchase 2 One-Size Reusable Pocket Diapers and get 50% off the 3rd Pocket Diaper. Expires 12/31/10.