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Spring Lifestyle upgrade—cleaning up health, home and skin!

Well I don’t know about you all, but we’re finally getting spring weather here in CT!! As soon as the weather gets above 60 and the sun is shining–I get two strong and conflicting desires—one to purge, organize and deep clean everything in the house…and the other to get out, lay on a blanket in the sun, play badminton with the kids, and generally just forget about chores for a bit.

I’ve been in the second mode for this weekend, and Earth day was a perfect and glorious day, reminding us of just how lucky we are to have green space and a little patch of earth to love, care for, and to be nourished by in so many ways.

What’s your favorite part about spring? Are you a clean first, play later type? Or a balance of the two?

I think the spring wardrobes and bare toes in the grass might be up there as my fav…oh, and the seasonal fruits and veggies coming back in–locally! We’re in a flurry to plant our garden quickly from last frost to summer–it’s gonna feel like a shorter season, but last year we moved in and planted in late May and it ended up working out well. Share what you’re enjoying about your cleaning and spring refresh!

I love to look at all my habits and hit the refresh button–from exercise, to making the lighter mornings count, to getting rid of winter clutter and even mindsets that aren’t serving me any more. I LOVE that we can use this lifestyle brand to CLEAN up many of the aspects of home, health, and skin…not to mention mindset and business with fresh perspective and goals! Wondering what to do with that nice tax refund? Invest in all areas of your life AND earn a check/write off your product bundle through the success packs–these are the biggest discounts on getting connected with non-toxic lifestyle tools at once–cleaner skin, cleaner homes, and cleaner health, through the supplements and the healthy cleanse kit!

Currently, through April 30th, the get clean kit includes FREE Shipping (Up to $20 value!) And they will be planting a tree in your honor; 1 tree, 1 kit. I love that. I replaced everything in my home with these cleaners 6 years ago, and we’ve never looked back! Been breathing easier, letting the kids help us clean (yay!) and more. You can find a whole article on this topic here.

What an amazing way to welcome spring!

And then I’ve read articles pointing to something I’ve instinctively understood/learned–that tidying up your kitchen and organizing it better can help with weight loss or health goals. (I’ll post link below).

And certainly finding ways to be more intentional and organized bring a peace and underlying rhythm to a season that starts to get very busy with events, etc. I know alot of people like to do a spring cleanse and to refresh their energy and habits. Consider that a seasonal gift to yourself; our bodies naturally hold on to weight in the winter months, especially cold weather climes, and it’s great to be able to shift our metabolisms and reset energy levels just in time for spring!

We have a great group lined up to start with us next week–but if you happen to be reading this later on and want to jump in, we’ll have several groups in early to mid May, and can do a personalized cleanse experience for you as well-it’s all about what you need!

More on that in another post, but this really is a complete non-toxic lifestyle, and as budget allows if you start going through and cleaning up/replacing all the areas of life with these tools, you’ll be AMAZED at the difference. Do you think changing brands can change lives? It certainly can and we’ve seen it time and again in the people around us who commit to the aspect of long term use—-after all–even though we like the idea of a quick fix, we know the ultimate goal is a sustainable, balanced, intentional and totally toxin free lifestyle, and that’s what this brand provides.

So thrilled you’re on the journey with us! Happy spring from my family to yours!

Article mentioned above:

Tidying Up Around the House Could Help You Lose Weight

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5 tools for a healthy gut in 2018

The new year motivation has come…and is perhaps getting a bit lost in the rush of a busy January. But the desire to feel amazing every day hasn’t changed. In this season after the holidays, and before the spring weather and seasonal foods hit us, it’s an important time to support and nourish our bodies, starting with the gut.

There are SO many foods and tools I could bring into this. I’m focusing in on my top 5 foods/drinks and nutritional tools to support your gut health in the new year. There’s alot of research coming out about the mind/gut connection (see also the articles referenced in my probiotics blog post–here)…and it’s true that supporting and healing our guts can promote positive changes in our mood, our mental habits and so much more.

Try some of these out, and let me know what you think!

  1. Kombucha

This very popular health fad is a great one–fermented tea has active cultures (similar to yogurt, but more effective, since grown from a mother)…it’s tasty, and is widely available. I recommend a ginger flavored kombucha if you can find it. The idea is you’re re-populating your gut with all the good bacteria that are depleted through sugar consumption, stress, lack of sleep, hard to digest carbs–you name it–the vicious cycle of what we affectionately know as “modern life”. 

Read more about it in the sources links below.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

So right along in keeping with kombucha populating the good bacteria in your gut, Apple Cider vinegar has long been known to be a health elixir, a drink that helps kill off the bad bacteria in your gut. It also is known to balance blood sugar, reduce risk of diabetes, and it does so by targeting the pH balance in the body, and eliminating/killing off any overgrowth of bad bacteria.

Not everone likes drinking it straight; I usually have it with water–1-2 tbsp to an 8oz glass of water, and I like to have it early in the day, when possible. But I started out having it with maple syrup to add some sweet to balance the bitter…depending on the type of ACV you get, the flavor may be more manageable and may not need the sweeter counterpart. This may be the toughest one to get into the habit of doing, but my grandma who is going strong in her mid 90s swears by ACV every day, so I’ll take her word for it contributing to a long and healthy life.

3. Chia Seeds

This superfood is known for being a powerful fiber. The fiber in chia seeds promote healthy stool, and the seeds actually absorb alot of water when in your stomach, promoting fullness and therefore weightloss when used regularly. They are high in protein, in addition to fiber, and they release a protective gelatinous covering, which you can see when you dissolve them in a liquid before digestion. This makes them actually function like a pre-biotic, lining the gut with gelatin and promoting the proper absorption of good nutrients and bacteria.

I like to dissolve chia seeds in my daily pomegranate energizing tea. It’s a great, tasty combination, and packs a powerful nutrient punch in the middle of the day…the texture reminds me of bubble tea from my days of living in NYC, and I love it. 

You can also make chia pudding with coconut milk, which is a delicious and healthy treat, as well as baking with it.

4. Bone Broth

I saved this one for close to last…If you’re vegetarian or vegan, this won’t be for you. However, this has become one of the biggest health fads turned true healing protocol adopted by many who have auto-immune issues and more. Basically, the theory behind leaky gut is that our gut walls are penetrated and impaired by things that attack it–like sugars, too much white carbs, too much stress over a long time, and more. Basically, our standard diet is very hard on our gut, and we need to work on healing that gut lining so that our gut can function properly. People talk about brain fog and all these other real, difficult symptoms that come with our gut being out of whack.

Strong medications/antibiotics, many things can set it off course. But to heal it, bone broth is going to be one of the very best measures. A few months ago, on my own journey to improve my digestion, energy levels and overall mood and well being (working on supporting my adrenals) I began drinking chicken broth daily–or at least 4-5 times per week, out of a mug. I start with an organic rotisserie chicken, and use the bones for the broth, so it’s very fresh. I immediately began to notice a difference in my moods, and in my balanced feelings and digestion throughout the day. I love this, for anyone to try, and to see the difference it can make for you. It’s an ancient form of deep daily nourishment, brought back into vogue at just the moment we need this habit the most.

5. Greens and juicing

So leafy greens provide a nice amount of both fiber, as well as key soluble nutrients to support your gut; and when they are consumed blended with shakes, or as juices, it makes it easier for your body to break them down and absorb the goodness without too much extra work. I like kale for it’s extra fibrous crunch–the flavor is pretty easy to enhance/mask. Spinach is another good one.

My favorite green shake is like the one above–or variations on kale, vanilla protein, pineapple and almond milk…tropical with a greens twist…get creative, and remember, the greener the better.

BONUS: Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes

*If you’re only going to choose a few tools–besides amazing, nourishing foods–to support your overall health this year (secretly, I hope you’ll take this quiz and try out all the recommendations for your health goals! ) then these would be the two that I would start with. The enzymes help break down foods for our stomach that might otherwise be a little harder for our bodies to break down, and can help ease digestive troubles related to foods like dairy and grains. They are become more widely known and recommended in nutritional circles, and you can read another article about them here.

I wrote a whole post about the power of probiotics, and the kinds to use, but I’ll just say that kombucha and ACV are natural forms of these, but you’re going to want to get some concentrated, specifically tested strains into your digestive system to support and heal your gut, and improve your energy, focus, immune system, daily detoxing and so much more.

If you have other, more serious or concerning/lingering issues–such as constipation, bloating, loose stools, IBS symptoms and more–be sure to speak with your health care provider, and consider doing a more intensive candida cleanse, or looking into a healing leaky gut protocol.

Meanwhile, speaking of gut health, our 7 day cleanse has been getting people amazing results–if you feel like you missed the band wagon on the pilot but you’re curious about the cleanse–just comment or email me (madeleine.pidel@gmail.com) and I’ll get you some more info–we can put you on the waitlist to be the first to know when more kits are available!

SO yes, not the most popular of topics, but in light of all the recently super successful cleansers in our community’s pilot program, and because it’s a question I get asked alot as a health coach, these are some things you can do right now, today, to improve your gut health, and therefore your overall healthy lifestyle and mindset!

Resources/Extra Reading for any other nutrition nerds out there:

http://health.facty.com/food/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-kombucha/?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=c-search&utm_term=%2Bkombucha%20%2Bbenefits&utm_campaign=f-h-10-benefits-of-kombucha&msclkid=8fab7ce95d9b1ad00bcb2687c1e1ad2a

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-proven-health-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar

https://draxe.com/chia-seeds-benefits-side-effects/

https://wellnessmama.com/23777/bone-broth-benefits/

 

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5 Life-changing books for a new year. And how they’ve shaped me.

 

Friends,

This is my first post of the new year. There was a much needed easing into 2018, that I’m immensely grateful for. So far it’s been a year of the unexpected…from snow days,  to other, bigger challenges, and I’m seeing clearly that time for renewal and recovery after the holidays was what was needed. Despite how far ahead into big 2018 plans my brain might have been rushing–the reality of life’s pace said differently…and I’m grateful I could listen and adjust the plans. Right now, I’m working towards this perspective on Flow. Flow does experience bumps. Flow doesn’t mean there won’t be any challenging moments anymore. 

But I also know that by leaning into the discomfort–the tough conversations with loved ones, the messy things that are life, by going THROUGH, not around–we’ll find grace, peace, and ultimately, much growth.

I’m in the midst of it, but I have gained some perspective based on the self-reflection I did to make my new year intentions–how I want this year to feel and be.

(More from me on that topic, and on vision boards, will be coming soon, by popular demand!)

BUT, I’m excited to start the year with this post. There are so many things that a new year offers us: the chance to eat better, move more, laugh more, sleep more, pray more, hug our loved ones more, etc. But something that I think is one of the most common “resolutions,” if you use that word, or “intentions” is to READ MORE!

Yep, it’s been on my list for as long as I can remember, and I know from social media that many of you have the same desire. I love to reflect back on specific books that have particularly shaped me, and there are a few that stand out, especially for this time of the year. These books are ones that are focused on personal growth, on resetting habits, on de-cluttering, and making space for good.

So I’ll share the book titles, and I want to dive into a tiny commentary and some musings on how these shaped me in hopes it will encourage you to put some or all of them on your 2018 list, if you feel that the themes will support you! This cold weather blast that we’ve been experiencing has made curling up with a good book by the fire on the top of my list. And major gratitude for Amazon prime. 

The Happiness Advantage

I read this book at a moment (about 2 years ago) when I was at a crossroads with work, and with owning a business. You see, I had been taught to set goals, and be happy when I had achieved them, and since I’m pretty type A, this model worked well for me. At some point though, I realized I was in a model where I was always setting the next goal, and always looking ahead to the next thing, and always thinking goals were a good idea. At the same time, as a mother, I was often realizing humbly just how hard it can be to accomplish things–with children, for children, getting to sink zero, much less inbox zero, or scoring that new client or project, or even getting to the grocery store and coming out with what we needed, on a given day.

Hence…I felt I was chasing happiness…and it was always escaping me. Can anyone else relate? The to-do lists never go away, and we want to end the day with a feeling of deep, meaning, some joy, some sense of what has happened and also that we were able to spend the time being happy. Not just looking everywhere for the happiness.

This book dispels POWERFULLY the notion that happiness can be attained by goal achievement, and flips it on it’s head with great research, compelling stories, sound cases from corporate environments and more. We’re left understanding that happiness DRIVES success, not the other way around.

And for some of us, that massive mindset shift can be the beginning of some amazing things. Highly recommend it for entrepreneurs, moms, dads, anyone in leadership roles, and anyone who wants to be happy in 2018 and to know that their happiness is going to fuel some other amazingly positive things for them in work and in life.

(Another great book on this topic, but more related to personal life, is Gretchen Rubin’s well known book, “The Happiness Project”. I read this a few years back and it had a deep impact on me and how we think about our lives, habits and what we have control over in terms of creating the right environment for creativity, peace and yes, daily happiness.)

Spark Joy

So I gave this book to myself for Christmas (In 2016) and my family laughed/cringed when they saw me joyfully unwrap it. Sure enough, a few weeks into January 2017, since one of our primary goals of the year was the successful sale of our place and move to a new one (with 3 small kids, do I need to remind you?), we had to take a serious look at our STUFF. And I was so mentally ready.

The first time I read The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up in 2016 I was impressed, and it spoke to me–cluttered and haphazard as my habits were at the time)–and got me philosophically. BUT, I wasn’t fully ready to commit to the hard work involved in making such life changing magic occur. Anyone relate? It’s easy to get both bogged down and overwhelmed by the project of tidying…especially when we know we need it.

But, fast forward to this moment when our kid stuff and clutter was reaching a mental health hazard level, and you will understand how this book, when put into the hands of the right person, on or around January or February of the new year, could literally create magic and spark that deep and wild joy that only a true Konmari fan knows.

I hauled 17 trash bags full of stuff to Goodwill (appreciated, but no longer needed; and mind you, we lived in a modest footprint and thought we were good about getting rid of stuff!). This work sparked the rest of the year and made our search for a new place, and move the truly life changing experience that it was. In her book, Marie Kondo makes a bold claim, that properly tidying your home, and knowing how you want to live–ie, being in integrity with your values and your relationship to what you have around you, will literally lead you to your next home…if you’re on the market. I completely believe that’s what happened. And on the other side of it, we have everything we need for a blessed and simple life, and nothing that we don’t.

Here’s what you learn in the book: the clarity you get around the stuff in your life–what you value, what stays with you when you’re making those decisions and ⅓ of your stuff needs to get removed or stored (like when you’re showing your place to sell it!)–all of a sudden, that clarity can wildly expand to other parts of your life. You’re creating space for more of what you want, but letting go of what’s not serving you, and being very clear and intentional with what you keep around you, and why.

How cool is that? It was a deeply spiritual, mentally challenging and important project, so I encourage you to take it seriously for what it is. If this is your year to change how you feel about your home, your stuff, and the mental clutter/overwhelm that can often accompany it, I’m cheering you on and I’m here happy to chat directly about your experiences. Enjoy that free, light feeling–much like we have at the end of a good, balanced, cleanse (see my subtle pitch there:)) but related to your home! It’s magical.

And turns out, we’ve kept many many of these practical habits she teaches after we moved (this book cannot make moving EASY, but it certainly makes moving more meditative and powerful in some ways). The kids have happily adopted some of the practices for their clothes and other things…toys are always a slight challenge, but we are light years ahead of where we were on that front a year ago. Highly recommend this for a transformative 2018 (you may want to start with her first book, the Life Changing Magic, or you may want to just dive right into the nitty gritty), and we’ll be doing more with this book and our communities in the coming months.

The Hidden Power of Kindness

 

So this book was recommended to me by my spiritual director. I knew that I needed to give it a read. I’ve been working HARD in past years on becoming a kinder person, and while I know it’s very much a work-in-progress, this book is where the pedal hits the floor. It’s very easy to speak platitudes about how the world would be a great and better place if we were all a little kinder (yes, I’ve been guilty of such simplification myself), but this book can open your eyes to the depths of the human heart–what we’re capable of, what we’re expected to do for others, in the name of kindness (i.e., real love) and what we’re expected NOT to do, which for many of us is really a kicker.

I have to admit to you that it’s a powerful bedside read. You may, like me, only be able to handle small chunks at a time, to meditate on, work with, live with, attempt to live up to…and most importantly, let it change our perspective on matters of the heart, and demand more of ourselves in the name of real, sacrificial love. The kind of kindness that truly changes people…most especially, ourselves.

The 4 Agreements: A practical guide to personal freedom

This book should probably be read by every high schooler, and again in college, and basically at every life stage. It’s a simple, powerful read, a little hard to get into (I’m saying that because you have to stick with it). It’s about personal integrity, understanding a context/framework within which to view and understand socialization, society, the family, ourselves and why we think and act the way we do. Once we understand that framework, we realize that these 4 simple yet utterly profound and life-changing “Agreements” that we can make with ourselves, can literally be the difference between a life lived at peace, and with a vision of the world as being a place of wholeness and meaning and ultimate unity, versus a vision of life as full of  fragments and frustrations. If you’ve ever wondered if there was a better way to live, or to approach life, this book might just give you a glimpse and some clues that are worth exploring and embracing. I can’t wait to hear your comments on this one if you’ve read it…everyone loves to talk about the effect it’s had in their lives, and in the lives of their loved ones. No spoilers–you have to discover what the 4 agreements are for yourself. And more importantly–whether you can live them out.

The War of Art

Ok. I did save this for last, and yes, this is probably up there at the very top of the list. Have you said that this year will be different? You’ll stop procrastinating and write that novel, take that desired vacation, change jobs like you’ve been meaning to, etc? And then have a sinking feeling it just might not happen? Well, what you’re up against is a common experience of “resistance” and this book breaks down exactly what’s going on.

The focus is on the creative process, but it really applies for any transformation and anything new that’s positive in life, which has a creative element. This book explains how to see the resistance for what it is, be mentally armed against it, and then to work through it to experience the powerful movements of support and integration, let’s call it “inspiration” on the other side  when you begin the daunting project– the training for that big race, the writing of that short story, the work on your website/used car, etc.

 

Whatever you’re most passionate about creating in 2018, this book will help you discover exactly what’s holding you back–and then render those forces powersless against you. I can’t WAIT to see what happens in your lives as a result of this book. I read it in Jan/Feb of 2017 with a 3 month old needing nursing sessions–so basically in the nooks and crannies of the day–and I can honestly point to its power being responsible for 80% of the great things that we were able to create this year, including my dream-come-true website/brand and a few other things that I would have told you a year ago were impossible or highly unlikely.

Read it now, read it in 3 months, read it again and again as long as you know what you’re working to create is worth fighting for. This is your compass and you’re going to LOVE IT.

_______________________

I hope that you enjoyed my summaries, complete with capitals. I can’t tell you enough how excited I am for this coming year. I’m in the middle of Rising Strong (Brene Brown) and it’s rocking and rumbling my world. More on that one soon. The other books that are high on my list for the coming weeks are these 2 books about FLOW. This word is coming into focus for me, and I want to get into the topic more deeply. If you want to be kept in the loop of what I’m reading, recommending and why, sign up for the emails–and let’s be sure to discuss, as you go through your transformative book lists for 2018!

I also have a book list that I will share with any of you by request: it’s called 12 Books for Your First Year in Business–for entrepreneurs, especially ones in a leadership/networking/coaching field like this one (though of course it’s valuable for others too, as the skills all overlap). This list is something I’ve worked hard on with several other business owners I greatly admire, so I’m pumped to be able to share from what we’ve culled and gathered and benefitted from over the years.

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On the search for a whole foods, organic, kids’ vitamin

A little back story on me, my family, and why this post matters so much, also known as, how changing brands can change your life.

As you know from my bio, I had a health and career crisis of a sorts 5 plus years ago, and through that journey, came to this moment, of being a health coach, business owner, happy full-time momma and flexible working around their schedule. My family desperately needed help when it came to health and nutrition; now we were aware that local, organic produce is the way to go, and when my first daughter was 1, we joined a CSA (community share of agriculture) to get farm fresh fruits and veggies all summer, and shopped at the Brooklyn farmers market as often as we could. Despite that, my daughter was a picky eater and was sick often and in a way that scared us so much as parents, in her first 2 years of life. We had frequent sick visits, fevers she couldn’t shake that would end us up in the hospital; it was tough to see her go through this, and to suspect that her picky eating habits, combined with daycare/nannies and constant exposure to germs, might be harming, not helping her.

So, we did what any good parents would do—set out to ask ourselves, what can we do differently, or better. Her pediatrician wasn’t given us any good suggestions to help her with weight gain, or developing healthy habits, so we did our own research, talked to friends, spoke with several mom friends who were already health coaches and were just discovering this “beyond organic” line that has now become our brand partner, for reasons you’ll soon understand.

So, I checked out the same info I’m sharing with you today, and was impressed. I said, wow, there’s a company with a 60 year history of integrity, purity and potency, and you can’t get it in stores? Tell me more. My daughter (Emma) started on 3 products to begin with–the incredivites multivitamin, the probiotics, and occasionally, as needed, the vitamin C tablets for immune support (ie, most of the winter!). Within 2 months, we were amazed at the difference in her. She was becoming a better eater (willing to try new flavors/more tastes), she was thriving in school, and when her classmates were sick she wasn’t always catching it (or was coming home with  mild form that we could kick without doctor or hospital visits!)

Fast forward to her preschool year, she then was notoriously the kid in her class who never missed school from sickness (when her class was sick all around her Nov-April), and while still a picky eater, the doctors no longer showed her as off (ie, below) the charts–or in a worrisome range. We are so grateful for these simple, powerful tools that support not only my spunky, healthy, Emma, but also her two younger siblings, who’ve never been on anti-biotics or had a sick visit (They were shaklee from utero, thanks to the amazing pre-natal programs offered, see more here.) That’s alot of time and money saved, and I’m grateful we can spend the winter months enjoy the seasons, the holidays and not worried about every single exposure or dreading bugs that would linger as we used to. We’re paying it forward and we LOVE the testimonies of families everywhere. What will your experience be?

So when I began to do my research on this brand, I learned some things that impressed me. This company’s founder created the first multivitamin in 1915. The company has had a rich 60 year history of products that are superior in quality, potency and with 125 published studies backing up their effectiveness (This is truly unheard of in the supplement industry in general, to have that kind of purity and 3rd party research guaranteeing the safety of products). Do a quick google search and you’ll see there’s never been an FDA violation, a product recall or anything of that nature. Impressive. So, when the organic labeling came into vogue, the requirements are 80 tests per each botanical ingredient minimum. Well, long before that, Shaklee’s standards had them doing 350 tests per new raw/botanical ingredient. That’s 4 times the quality measure of an organic label. So, when we share the Shaklee label, what you’re getting is far and away “beyond organic”.

Here’s some more fun facts for anyone who likes to nerd out (like I do) on the science and history behind the #1 natural nutrition company. After all, our families deserve only the best.

So, now that we’ve established that everything here is beyond Organic, let’s talk healthy daily habits for kids, even the pickest of eaters benefit from and love these.

Until we can get our kids to eat all of the above….well, even then it’s not even realistic.

As our soil changes, and produce becomes less nutrient dense, the verdict is in that we NEED to supplement, starting at a young age, for optimal nutrition.

I LOVE the fact that these vitamins provide the same immune support found in breastmilk–no other vitamins can boast that, and it’s a great transition vitamin for kids as young as 1 year to begin supplementing. My 1 year old loves chewing them with his big sisters, and when he turns 4 I’ll increase the dosage from 1 to 2 chewables.

Now for some comparisons…

 

Yes, I admit I grew up with flintstones and I LOVED them–they were like candy–in fact, they actually probably had the same effect on me…but when we know better, we do better 🙂

Now this chart is illuminating, but what’s even scarier, and why this all matters so much, is that some companies actually get away with putting ingredients in their supplements that either not on the label, or are downright harmful. This study from the FDA shows that higher than acceptable amounts of LEAD were found in these common brands of prenatal and kids vitamins–even ones that have an “organic” label–that many of us know and have used.

Crazy. But the good news is, now we know.

This is the day in the life of our family; covering everything from the multi’s that all 3 kids can take (ages 7, 4 and 1 in different doses based on RDA standards) and hydrate electrolyte drink for active growing bodies, along with immune support (yep, needed often in the winter, nips colds in the bud within 12 hours in my experience), and of course the probiotics. See more about the science and importance of probiotics for immune and overall health here.

If you’re interested in doing a free 20 minute health assessment discussing the specific needs of your family; I’m honored to speak with you, and happy to schedule that. We’re all different, and so are our nutritional needs for growing kiddos.

Our community of coaches supports families with everything from immune support to autism/ADHD challenges, and more with natural nutrition support. I also create healthy meal plans and more as needed.

If your budget is $50/less, we suggest starting with the incredivites and probiotics. The ones my girls take daily no matter what 🙂

 

If you’re in need of building a larger natural medicine cabinet, and really focusing on immune support and brain health, then the healthy kids starter pack is a great option–and you can refill as needed. Healthy kids power pack found here.

Thanks so much for being here; the health of our children matters so much, and I’m grateful to not only share our story, but to continue to be part of your family’s healthy journey as well!

-maddy

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Healthy Holiday treats…3 winners!

As many of you know, I do have a solid sweet tooth, and a few years ago when I began to drastically reduce the sugar we consume, personally and as a family (not super strict, just aware, reading labels and mostly eating whole foods, etc)….I started spending time creating sweet variations for snacking and dessert that would be both satisfying, filling and that myself and my kiddos could have several helpings and feel great about it. With a flexible and intuitive eating philosophy, we’re looking to create recipes from wholesome ingredients that satisfy us, and these really hit the spot for our family.

And if you haven’t noticed, simplifying is a huge theme of mine so these are all minimal ingredients, 2 don’t require baking(!) and are easy to make with busy little hands helping 🙂

I so wish I could hop into all of your kitchens this time of year, share a cup of coffee and enjoy seeing all the fun treats you’re whipping up! If you feel inspired to try these, I don’t think you’ll regret it, and sharing them will make it twice as fun–when you let people in on the secret that these are healthy AND Yummy!

Delicious 3 ingredient fudge

Holiday chocolate protein fudge

(Gluten free, paleo (if you use build shake), dairy free)

This recipe is a winner, we created it first to accompany the pumpkin spice flavors of fall, but it stands alone and is an winner with a chocolate protein instead! Another selling point for me with these recipes–no baking…and easy to decorate 🙂

*3/4 cup organic, raw honey

*1 cup almond butter or peanut butter (smooth)–can sub sunflower butter if nut allergies

*1 cup chocolate life shake

*optional sprinkles

Blend honey and nut butter in a saucepan on low, until fully melted/blended. Add protein powder, stirring slowly. remove from heat, pour into glass pie pan or square dish (no need to grease). Add crumbled candy cane or other sprinkles…Refrigerate 1 hour and enjoy! Store in fridge, can keep up to 1 week…brilliantqar.

I have a feeling both young and old will love these!

Macaroons

Macaroons

(Gluten free, paleo, dairy free)

*5 1/3 cup coconut flakes (1 package)

*2/3 cup coconut sugar

*6 tbsp

coconut flour

*1/4 tsp salt

*4 egg whites

*1 tsp almond or vanilla extract

Mix coconut, sugar, flour and salt in large bowl. Stir in egg whites and almond extract until well blended. Drop by tablespoons onto greased/floured cookie sheets. Bake at 325 for 20 min or until edges are golden brown. Cool and add sprinkles, optional.

 

Peppermint Patties

Peppermint patty protein bites

(Gluten free, dairy free, vegan, paleo, delicious)

*1 cup oats, ground to flour (could also use almond flour)

 

*1 cup Shaklee Life Shake or Build whey protein (chocolate or vanilla).

*1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

*1/2 cup honey

*Peppermint extract to taste – I used 2 teaspoons

Combine and form into balls, chill on wax paper in freezer while you melt chocolate in a double boiler, adding peppermint extract if desired (I did). Dip and sprinkle with crushed candycane, then return to fridge.

Happy “baking” and enjoying!!!

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12 deals of Christmas 2017

Ho-ho-ho! The gift of health from a brand we trust is a precious one to give in this era where we value integrity, wholeness and commitment to our shared future more than ever. I’ve been enjoying picking out stocking stuffers like the newly released (scour off), the bb creams, and the Basic H set to give to teachers, family and friends. These deals are being released 1 per day over on my FB page (Dec 12-24) but of course if you’re like me and want to plan well, this spot holds them all, and you’re welcome to contact me directly (madeleine.pide@gmail.com) for the one (or several) you want to snap up. I’ll honor them through Dec 31st for anyone who’s traveling or can’t commit to receiving their package until closer to the new year. Cheers to a cozy, calm, and wonderful holiday season with the ones you love.

 

*All of these packages come with a free 20 minute health consult with yours truly…we can do them now or in the new year!–these consults can be gifted to family members with purchases of the kit as well* ($50 value!)

Happy Healthy holiday shopping!

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Festive kale salad–2 ways

I had this salad at a friend’s house and loved how flavorful, hearty and filling it was. It’s easy to make the variations once you massage the kale with the oil and lemon, and you can optionally add various seasonings to the dressing based on the toppings you choose.

1 large bag of chopped/prepped organic kale, or 2 bunches kale washed/chopped

1 serving quinoa (usually 2 cups water to 1 cup quinoa makes a serving)

2 bags dried cranberries/cherries (I like a blend)

optional: pecans (we’re a no nut school so these didn’t go in for the teacher luncheon)

Dressing:
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup olive oil, organic
1/4 cup balsamic (optional, and can also drizzle on at the end)
salt/pepper to taste
optional 1 tsp honey to encourage the sweetness of the berries to counteract the bitter kale.

Massage oil and lemon juice into kale; let stand 10 minutes while prepping other ingredients/dressing.

Other mix-in options:
Roast grape tomatoes and sunflower seeds (separate pans) in 300 degree oven for 10 min or until bubbling/brown, then let cool before tossing in the salad.

~~~~~~~

This recipe is great for storing overnight, the lemon juice slightly breaks down the kale and balances the bitter flavor, so great to keep around for house guests, dinner parties (make ahead) and just about any moment in the coming weeks when you need a break from the sugar and carbs, and a little detox moment. Kale is a trend health food that’s here to stay—tons of vitamin A, E, K and fiber, and the iron is easier for our bodies to absorb than that found in other veggie sources. Thanks for letting me share in a health coach nerd out, but mix up this salad and share away with family and friends–can’t wait to hear what you think and whatyour variations are!

Happy preparation weeks:)

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Tis the season: simplified holidays

This season of the year can feel like the mad dash to cram in all the things we needed to finish for 2017, fill the days with new (wonderful) events and activities, parties, people, and sometimes, the very thought of our to-do lists and calendars can make us sweat a little…

I’ve been reflecting on what it means to simplify the holidays…and it’s something many of our hearts long for–as I talk to dear friends around the country…it will look different for each of us, but I’ve felt called since last week to write a post to attempt to put my reflections on this topic into a short post that will create space in your heart and your mind rather than cramming it full. We can support each other in taking steps to create a simpler, more joyful December.

Here’s a rich quote that I discovered today (thanks St. Ambrose)…and it really sums up more beautifully than I could, what we’re grappling with.

“Let your door stand open to receive Him, unlock your soul to Him, offer Him a welcome in your mind, and then you will see the riches of simplicity, the treasures of peace, the joy of grace. Throw wide the gate of your heart, stand before the sun of the everlasting light…” -St Ambrose

(I think that whatever faith tradition you’re coming from; this time of year connected to the soltice etc is about turning inward, reflection, considering the state of one’s heart going into the new year, and is apropos to the feasts that each faith celebrates).

The riches of simplicity. That’s what I’m after. And it’s a struggle, because the great current and culture (just step into any mall on a weekend) is rushing past us saying “more, more”.

So, how does this creating of space look? I’ll consider several angles and share some things we’ve found helpful as a family over the years…(And believe me, I’m completely in process on this, and need your ideas and sharing to support mine). There’s a book I’m just starting called “The best Yes” and the premise of it is that saying “no” in small areas allows us to say “yes” to the things that really matter, and that is what allows us to step off the crazy race of feeling pulled in a million directions and wondering which aspects of it all will have the most meaning. Think back to past holidays–what moments stand out? The crazy last minute trips to the mall or the grocery store for the 3rd time that day (hey, guilty)…or the moments when everyone is together, feasting, celebrating, or even quiet preparation moments—candles, music, baking with kids (or without)…I’m choosing to create space to let the good stuff come first…and that’s going to mean some things just won’t happen this year, and I’m making my peace with that too.

*Simplifying priorities and calendar*

…this helps me so much. If I know something like a tree-cutting as a family, Nutcracker, or ice-skating is a priority for us, I’ve learned to schedule it in at once (block scheduling) so that if other things come up or we’re invited here or there, I can already know that our priorities are there, scheduled, ready for us to enjoy the moments.

Some people love doing Christmas cards, others don’t. Some people love doing parties 4 nights a week. Others of us can handle 1 or 2 and that’s about our max at the moment…so embrace your priorities and let go of any guilt…I know doses of it in past years when confronting choices and it ends up adding to my stress, which none of us need.

*Simplifying expectations*

Isn’t this the kicker? We all want to do so many things with each day. We have long idealized to-do lists. But sometimes letting go of those expectations and welcoming what is offered to us in the moment, in the twists and turns of the day, is where we’ll discover the true magic of the season. Perhaps instead of making cookies for everyone you love, you invite some folks over for a cookie party–one place, everyone laughs, enjoys, decorates together, and takes home a plate (we did this one year with little ones and it was a big hit…and saved so much time/extra stuff for me). Maybe you let yourself off the hook for doing the elaborate holiday get-together you did in past years, and embrace a potluck brunch model with friends…last year, when I had a newborn, I had to simplify expectations I had (for myself) big-time!, and while it was humbling, it was also incredible to discover the core of some of our most important traditions, which appeared when alot was stripped away.

*Simplifying gifts*w3

Am I the only one? I struggle with the tension of wanting the perfect thing for each person on my list, and being also torn with the time and effort (and even budget) sometimes to get all those things taken care of in just a few weeks. And really, for people close to us and people far, don’t they value things that are ,unusual, home-made, from the heart? I don’t claim to be a pinterest mom by any stretch of the imagination, but of course I like the idea of making things for people…so simple things and considering how often I can give experiences or time, helps with making the list very meaningful and something that lasts more than a day. Our kids this year are of course going to have a few things under the tree, but we’re also really emphasizing experiences, learning opportunities, fun, things we can commit to doing with them. And for many of us, something like a certificate to “brunch” or “a movie together” or “watching your kids while you go out with your husband” might end up meaning SO much more…the gift of time, as we all know, blesses others more richly than we can imagine. Or what about giving a book you cherish AND giving the coffee date to discuss said book…it truly changes the gift when framed in that way.

I do like to keep some easy (remember, not pinteresty) gifts around for the kids to make for family and friends…here are some of our favorites.

This is the biggest topic that moms and dads (and everyone) have to discern and discuss, since it’s such a joy to watch children open anticipated (or surprise) gifts on Christmas. But for many of us, the goal of keeping the rest of the year (and homes) simple can feel at odds on this count….so please, share your thoughts!

*Space for self-care* (and teaching this to our kids).

This one is super relevant for moms, dads, teachers, and anyone who’s caring for others in all the ways we love to, but especially this season. It’s relevant for all of us. The demands can get very intense, and, as you might imagine, my gentle nudge to you is to embrace a higher level of self-care//wellness//whatever that means to you….when you’re more complete, more whole, you’re giving a better version of yourself to everyone you encounter. This might mean yoga every day for a few minutes, a bath after the end of a long day, it might mean midday walks (these are my saving grace, for my energy and winter mood, plus can be done with kiddos), it might mean carving out the time for reflection, prayer and using an advent journal such as the one I’m loving called Rooted in Hope. It might mean (guilty), setting an alarm to remind yourself to go to bed so you can be a functioning human being the next day; it might mean drinking shakes and taking your vits in the morning before you start sipping cocktails at night…whatever it is, factor it in, and embrace it as part of what you’re called to do in the name of service, self-gift, and bringing holiday cheer.

For my kids, it’s reminding them to take moments for themselves as needed, to still get outside for fresh air even when it’s bitter, and to be aware when they’re feeling the need for quiet time, reading, time apart. Emma is doing a journal with me, I love that she understands (and is reinforced at school)–the deeper reason for the season beyond santa wish lists.

Festive morning yoga and stretching: making it happen as best we can.

*Space for service*

Connected to giving time and experiences, I find it a beautiful thing to do a service project (or 2) this time of year. The girls have several gift drives in their school and our Church, which I love and they are beautiful ways to connect to the larger community’s experience of the season. But what about giving these precious hours during the craziest time of the year? I remember last year I had to work hard to find a group that would let us volunteer as a family (many places have rules about small children etc) but when we were able to help out at a Christmas pageant/dinner with the Missionaries of charity, it was the most beautiful evening shared, and we left feeling so much more filled and touched than we could have imagined. I would sacrifice a shopping day for that kind of family experience anytime. Do you like to do service this time of year? Share your experiences, I’ll be thrilled to get new ideas from you all.

*Creating space in the home*

Right before the holidays, there’s often a big desire/push to declutter and evaluate excess/extra that can be given away to others. We may have guests coming, we have a myriad of new holiday decor out, and without a bit of clearing space, it can feel downright crowded/cluttered.
I have in the past years, had the girls go through their toys and pick ones they would donate to others, and we’ve cleared out sometimes up to 1/3rd of their belongings at this time, which truly they weren’t using/attached to! These make great gifts to others in need, or end of year tax write-offs if nothing else.

Now, that I have a new method for managing toys and do more of an ongoing (KonMari/Spark Joy) method for their items, it’s become less critical, but I did go through and remove 1.5 bins of toys from their stash, and if, after the holidays, we don’t seem to need/notice them for a few months, they may get donated too.

This is such a beautiful analogy to how we’re called to create space in our hearts…and the physical act of decluttering, and also giving beauty and precedence/honor to the things we choose to keep and display, is a spiritual experience for many of us as well. More on that in the new year from me (hop on my list to see the program offerings that are coming….so important, right? We all feel this need to consciously and gratefully craft homes that are not overwhelming or overflowing…it’s a joyful balancing act, and truly one of privilege. When we feel spaciousness, there is room for new. And don’t we all want to be made new by the eve of December 31st….ready for what 2018 will offer us, if we have the calm, peace, and spaciousness to receive it.

Thank you for reading these ramblings, I hope you’ll share your thoughts on the matter…and next up…some healthy holiday treats coming your way!a

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Be. Do. Have. Principles for life and leadership

I was reflecting the other day on what I think a huge piece of our daily mindset and happiness comes from, and how we can approach anything, from goal setting for the new year coming up, to raising our kids, to looking forward to something positive in the new year like an exotic trip. Some conversations with close friends highlighted that when we’re making changes, we wonder how to make sure it will stick; do we have the right framework for it, to make the habits, goals, and all other elements come together? What tools will ensure that this change we’re working on is lasting and meaningful?

Well, I think it has to do with this paradigm shift that literally blew my mind and caused me to re-evaluate so many principles and things I was working with, from relationships, to teammate interactions, goal setting sessions, even my daily to-do list and how I approached it with a fierceness, convinced that if I conquered it I would rest that night with that blissful feeling of doing it all, but in reality–any mom can tell you–the day had a million interruptions and sometimes those all important items became an afterthought to the living. Do we measure success by our to-do list being short, or by something else?

So….how can we approach life differently? How can we create/cultivate happiness, in each moment, complete for what it is, as if we already have what we seek? You and I all know people who manage to live this way…and they are often very attractive, so they have natural leadership qualities. But what is this new approach?

Here’s a quote that sums it up better than I ever could:

Most people believe that if they ‘have’ a thing (more time, money, love – whatever) then they can finally ‘do’ a thing (write a book, take up a hobby, go on vacation, buy a home, undertake a relationship), which will enable them to ‘be’ a thing (happy, peaceful, content, or in love). In actuality, they are reversing the Be-Do-Have paradigm. In the Universe as it really is (as opposed to how you think it is), ‘havingness’ does not produce ‘beingness’ but the other way around. First you ‘be’ the thing called ‘happy’ (or ‘knowing’, or ‘wise’, or ‘compassionate’, or whatever) then you start ‘doing’ things from this place of beingness – and soon you discover that what you are doing winds up bringing you the things you’ve always wanted to ‘have.’ Conversations with God, Book 3, Neale Donald Walsh

So…imagine if you woke up and said…today, I choose to be _________ (peaceful, joyful, focused (on a deadline), vibrant, lighthearted, etc) and then set out to do your day, from that conviction that you already can be and are that thing. It’s a grounding in ourselves and not relying on things outside of us to determine our mood or attitude about the day. Incredibly powerful shift, though so subtle that you might feel that your day itself doesn’t look that much different. But try it out and it will FEEL incredible different.

I was loving this concept and using it alot in my business, which is all about setting goals and helping your teammates to set big goals…because sometimes for myself or others, this funny thing would happen….month after month, with growth, new business, success, milestones, even accolades, we can sometimes feeling empty inside, or “is this enough”. Or, well, time to focus on the next big goal–to try to that proud feeling of accomplishment that is so sweet and is hardwired in us to enjoy.

It’s like you’ve been waiting all year for your birthday, and then the sheer anticipation overwhelms the actual event and makes it hard to have perspective on what you’re actually enjoying about the big day.

Can anyone else relate? Especially my goal lovers out there who love a good goal to keep ourselves in motion. Well, it turns out…there’s something else here. We have to, get to, learn to love the journey, not just the destination. That’s where the being and the doing come in. If I just tell myself, I will be happy when I get that next raise at work, or next month at the holidays, or I’ll be happy when my kids finally start listening better, or I’ll be happy when I have a new wardrobe, or sofa,…you see what I mean? It’s always outside of us, of our control, and it’s always beckoning us to be dis-satisfied with what we currently have. It screams louder when we go on social media and compare, compare, feel upset, guilty, pitty party, everyone else’s life is (looks) perfect and mine is…well, real life.

Give yourself permission to let that go. Connect with what you’re feeling called to BE in the world (we’ll do more of this work in my design your life series in the new year, so hop on over to the page and submit your info if you’re intrigued). And let’s shine and use our gifts in a way that is free and unlinked to anything that we feel we should HAVE or DO, that hasn’t happened yet.

For me, this has taught me to focus a bit more on what my spirit is calling forth in me. If there’s a need for greater outspokenness, or greater peace or patience (in my household that’s always a good one!), or if I’m meant to start with gratitude for what I already have rather than thinking of the few things I don’t have. It’s a powerful lesson to work on with kids as well, because why, at a young age, do we get hardwired this way? I’m definitely trying to re-wire or un-wire the circuits so my kids are free to focus on BEING, rather than be products of cultures of DOING or HAVING. Watch a 4 year old play and you’ll see and remember it all used to be much simpler….and there’s a beauty in that. You can think more about this topic by reading The Four Agreements, another one of my top reads.

In leadership, it means focusing in on the qualities or aspects of your partners or teammates and speaking to THOSE first. Rather than “here’s a deadline, I’ll be judging you by your efforts and productivity to meet it”. Or, exploring the perspective of where a person wants to be, and asking the question–but WHY? And getting down to the deepest layer of what drives them forward; within that motivation, we find the desire and the being, that is much more fundamental to us than our need to DO or HAVE.

My daily planner which I’ve been using for 2 years (just ordered my 3rd for 2018! Happy dance) is one called “The Desire Map Planner” by Danielle LaPorte. It spoke to me on a deep level when I was at a crossroads (read, overwhelmed by life!) and was ready to implement these principles for goal setting and action from a place of being and becoming, and feeling, rather than traditional yardsticks. It may not be for everyone, but it’s changed my life, and I HIGHLY recommend it if you’re in the market for a planner…that’s another post for another day, but give yourself permission to explore these topics, and enjoy the way your life shifts!

Great short article with some practical types on working your new muscle.

http://www.davidyarian.com/articles/be-do-have.htm

Be, Do, Have

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My favorite 6 postpartum self-care tips & tricks

Last year, exactly 1 year ago, I was 2.5 weeks postpartum with my 3rd, and we were heading into the holiday season. I remember moments of total exhaustion and overwhelm amidst the joy and the happy busy preparations. We then went on into the new year to decide we wanted to move the family, and by the time my babe was 4 months we were showing our place to sell it, and looking for a new place, and moved when he was 7 months old.

Needless to say,  I had to get very serious about my self-care during this period of time of blessings, but also intensity, transition, and busyness. I have a few things that stood the test for me, and I wanted to share them for all my momma friends who are in the trenches, and in that beautiful period of post-partum, when caring for self is equivalent for caring for baby. This is true especially if breastfeeding, but no matter what, mother is everything, the baby’s whole world. That reality motivated me to continually ground myself, for my baby and my kids’ sake, as well as my own.

And if you’re feeling very very sad all the time, or completely overwhelmed or angry or a combination of intense emotions, don’t just brush it off as a need for self-care…talk to someone who can help you determine whether you have PPD or Anxiety and address it. There’s a good related article, self quiz & support team here at Seleni Institute, or speak with your health provider.

  1. Never underestimate the benefits of a good soak in epsom salts and lavendar after a long day. Not only does the magnesium calm the nervous system and prepare you for a restful night sleep, but the baths are good for aching muscles, and you’ll forget most of the cares of the day after you’ve soaked for 20 minutes, especially with tea, candles and a good book nearby. I like to get the lavender epsom salt blends, and you can add a few drops of your favorite calming essential oils too, as the bath runs.
  2. Get outside. Not only does it help with mood, but time in the sunshine will give you perspective on your time with baby at home, the fresh air will do you good (even in winter its great to bundle baby and go for a walk)…and of course, catching Vit D when you can helps support your vital replenishment of it, as well as babes…since they can’t get it through breastmilk. Plus, it’s always wonderful coming back home after a short outing. Walks, jogs, time at the park, whatever suits you. Just make it regular and easy to plan:)
  3. Sleep extra. This is such cliche advice they always give us “sleep when baby sleeps”…I always chuckle—yah right, i’m gonna grab my favorite mug, some tea, catch up on emails, news, dishes, life…but NO. Much better if you give yourself permission to take naps 2-3 times a week with babe, especially early on. It’s special bonding time if you are able to sleep with them. Or if by yourself, just appreciate it for what it is; your body heals so much more quickly when it’s rested…I’ve learned this the hard way when dangerously cutting sleep after my 1st and my 3rd…and believe me, it’s not a good thing for anyone involved.
  4. Nourish yourself with all the goodness you can. I am a big believer that this is one of the most important times to focus on nutrition, equally so to pre-natal, but often not discussed. I recommend this book The first 40 Days that goes into great detail on which foods are most healing to postpartum mommas, and has amazing recipes…that you should have someone ELSE make for you. Keep quick and easy snacks on hand, and reach for healthy fats, protein (your needs are just as high as pregnancy), filling hearty grains, and greens as often as you can, even when caffeine and sugar seem like the obvious ways to get through the sleep deprived mornings and days. Caffeine and sugar can contribute to our mood swings and cortisol disruption, so be wise about avoiding that cycle…finding other ways to get quick energy fixes is definitely a good plan. See my post on postpartum health tools. 
  5. Remember to get out the house at least once a week (after the initial 6 weeks or your healing/cleared) and do a hobby, pursue something you love. This could be anything from pottery (I took a class when my first was a baby and let her and her dad bond and figure themselves out one evening a week)…to yoga (this was my hobby of choice after #2)…or even something as simple as just getting out and going to the movies by yourself (this was a dream come true for me after #3). Just knowing that you have that time for your own needs and to be a human as well as a pillow and milk machine, will help your spirits heal along with your body. It’s alot of big changes, and we need to ground ourselves in things that have brought us joy and will continue to, such as books, hobbies, and relationships.
  6. Last but certainly not least: Know when to ask for help. When you’re near the end of your energy or what you can give, and you just need a warm meal, a nap and a moment to yourself while someone cares for baby, or for your toddler or other kiddos, find out who your support team will be, call on them in advance and make sure they’re at the ready to help. It certainly takes wisdom and humility, and it’s so worth it to get the team lined up before you have birth, but don’t feel the need to stretch your supermom cape too thin; there’s plenty of time for that once baby is a little older, for now, your lives and well being are vitally intertwined and in need of a large community of support.

I’m cheering for you! Reach out if you want to connect, I adore supporting moms in this beautiful phase of life, or jump into our Postpartum FB group that we just launched in Jan 2018 to share your success, struggles, daily wins and all the rest of it in a private group setting. This has been a dream of mine for some time and it’s so humbling and awesome to see so many amazing women coming together to deeply support each other in navigating the joys and challenges of this unforgettable time in our lives. 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/569409133392034/

(You’ll be in, pending answering a few questions to help us support you!)

We’re in this together.