Category Archives: baby

Epidurals Are Not Optional

I know epidurals are controversial. I have read the pros and cons. I even had a co-worker become temporarily paralyzed from the waist down. For eight months she did not know if she would ever be able to walk again. She was fortunate enough to regain her motor skills, and is now perfectly fine, but I have to admit that added to my fear of getting an epidural.

Nevertheless, during labor I requested one. Some would call me weak, amongst other things.
Despite what decision you make, it is ultimately your choice. I know it is not necessary for delivery, but I felt slighted when my insurance refused to pay for it. I got the bill in the mail a few months later, and when I inquired about it, they insurance company declared that it was not required for labor, and therefore I would be liable for it. Anesthesia is never required, but would the insurance company deny it for major surgery? Or even minor surgery?

Regardless of personal feelings about epidurals, why is delivery belittled in terms of pain? Sure women have been giving birth naturally since the beginning of time, but technically once upon a time they used to amputate limbs without anesthesia using unsterilized utensils. Does that mean we need to regress to that as well and start denying other patients pain relief?

Giving birth is a very violent and painful event. Kudos to those women who can tough it out, I have nothing but reverence for you. However, for the rest of us, I think we should not be denied the option unless we are willing to pay extra for it. Epidurals are not a luxury.

Does Your Child Wear This?

A couple of years ago I bought a baseball jersey for my husband. It cost a lot, but it was well worth it. He loves it and wears it to all the games, and on special game days. My husband is a huge baseball fan, and I can only imagine how much he would love to see our kids decked out in baseball gear, especially for his favorite team.
However, baby and small child jerseys, onesies, and t-shirts cost almost as much as adult sized ones. I can justify splurging a bit on something I know my husband will enjoy for several years to come, but I cannot fathom spending the same money for a onesie or jersey my kids will wear for a few weeks or months before they grow out of it. Not to mention, they will only wear these items a handful of times within these few months, making the purchase even more regrettable.

As much as I would love to see them surprise daddy wearing his favorite team’s jersey, I am torn about it. Do you buy sporting outfits for your small ones?

Channeling Creativity

Over the years I have been to several baby showers. Then, one day I saw a diaper cake. I thought it was the cutest thing I had ever seen. I wanted one. No, I wanted to make one. Something inside of me yearned to create something as cute and practical. I could not wait until another one of my friends got pregnant so I could have an excuse to make one. The wait was long. Finally I got the opportunity, and had so much fun with it, I was hooked! I had to make another one!
In spending the time making the piece I realized that it was more than just cute and practical. It was a way of creating a very unique gift for the mother to be. All the items included could be customized to her bundle of joy, and she could use all of the diapers afterward. Also, it makes an amazing centerpiece for the gift table, or even the pastries table. It was fun to make. It was fun to give.
I explored the possibilities and my creative engines started going. I found better ways of making diaper cakes. I had ideas! I just needed another friend to get knocked up so I could execute them. The wait was again long. Finally several of my friends were pregnant, but none were having baby showers in the foreseeable future, if at all. Bummed out I finally found a solution to channel my creative nature into. I would make diaper cakes and sell them online.
I found a self sustaining hobby. I would make just enough money to sponsor the next cake. I no longer have to wait for an excuse; I just have to wait for a buyer. I decided it would be better if I expanded my market and started taking custom orders too. I could make diaper cakes all day!