Happy Bum

I had been looking around on the internet for a safe and organic diaper cream. Odessa hasn't shown any signs of a diaper rash, and I intend to keep it that way. The red and raw skin, followed by a very angry baby, is not something I want to deal with anytime soon. I'm pretty sure Odessa doesn't want to have to go through that as well. I came accross Earth Mama Angel Baby, a line of natural skin care products catering to pregnant women, new moms, and babies. I read wonderful reviews about the Angel Baby Bottom Balm. It is a certified vegan salve containing organic olive oil, herbs, shea butter, and naturally antibacterial and antifungal essential oils. Not only does it heal and prevent diaper rash, you can use it on cradle cap, bug bites, burns and scrapes. Well, I hunted down a reseller in Edmonton, because, according to one new mom, I HAD to have it. Guess what!? It works! Although it was a little hard to find, it was worth the search. I used it on Odessa's cradle cap one night before bed, and it had cleared up by morning. I even use it as a moisturizer for myself. Because of the strong smell and the tiny size (the largest size you can purchase contains only two ounces), you only need a small amount. Odessa and I do not leave home without it.

Unexpected Changes

I know I was expecting huge changes when Odessa was born...a change in sleep patterns, a change in priorities, a change in my social life, a change in my relationship with my husband, a change in the way I love. I never expected such a dramatic change in how I view the planet and what is happening to it. The research I have done in the last few months has truly brought important issues to my attention. From the chemicals in plastic baby bottles to the unnecessary lotions loaded with parabens to the added salt and sugar in store bought baby food. These child related issues have made me take a closer look at organic eating for myself and Jeremy, start reading the labels of shampoo bottles, and have opened my eyes to how much water I actually waste in a day. Odessa has even made me feel incredibly guilty when I forget my cloth grocery bags at home. I hate to say it, but this change in me may have only occurred because I am now a parent. I care so much about what she is exposed to, that it has indirectly made me a healthier person. I must say, it is a lot harder to eat off a styrofoam plate with your little girl watching.

The world is slowly, actually quickly, crumbling and we decided to introduce a child into it. Why? Besides my incredible need to be a mother, I feel as though this is my chance to raise and teach my offspring to respect the Earth and to help heal it. Not only will the Earth benefit, but their little minds and bodies will be healthier and stronger as well. Children are like little sponges and whatever we do, they are likely to follow in our footsteps. What a wonderful way to change the outcome of this one world we have.