Cord

                                               Image © 2010 LMB All Rights Reserved

Even though this method of drying the cord takes longer, it makes a much prettier cord to present to the mother.This cord took about a week to completely dry.

Inspiring Quote

"Birth is not only about making babies. Birth is about making mothers--strong, competent, capable mothers who trust themselves and know their inner strength." ~Barbara Katz Rothman

Sewing

There are lots of posts I want to write since my trip to the 2010 MANA Conference in Tennessee. I got to meet Ina May Gaskin! I also learned many new tidbits of information and a few skills. One piece of advice I received from DeAna Durbin was to start sewing and doing needlework for suturing practice. I decided to update one of  my couch pillows with a new cover. I am so proud of it! Besides getting to practice the evenness of my stitches, I think the main benefit is that I experienced an extended period of time sewing. This way my hands and my back will be used to it before I use these skills at a birth for the first time.

                                        

website update

Our new home on the web is www.mothertreecare.com!

My First Birth Experience

Nine years ago, I supported my friend Jane in the birth of her first child- the first birth I ever witnessed. It was my senior year in college but his birth changed my life's path. As Gabe began to crown, I wondered what to expect. I remembered televised births on sitcoms and soap operas where dads fainted or got sick.  Still, I held Jane's leg and watched. To my amazement, Gabe silently and peacefully slid out. The moment was serene and beautiful. Jane didn't scream. I didn't faint. My next thought was, "I can do this!" I knew I had to become a midwife no matter what.


(*Have to mention how cool it was that Stone Temple Pilots were having a concert across the street from the hospital!!!)

Image © 2010 LMB All Rights Reserved

Motherwort

Motherwort is a well-rounded herb that is essential postpartum. Motherwort's nickname is "the St. John's wort for mothers." It is effective in reducing anxiety, preventing postpartum depression, easing insomnia, preventing postpartum hemorrhage and encourages milk flow. We include this herb in our Postpartum tea blend and highly recommend it for a quick recovery from birth.

Image from www.herbs-hands-healing.co.uk

Placenta Print

Image © 2010 LMB All Rights Reserved

For this placenta print, the placenta was rinsed so we had to think outside the box. We decided to create an edible ink since the placenta was to be encapsulated. When we mixed the ink, it turned into this beautiful shade of salmon. I love that this print emerged so rose-like.