Becoming a parent is an event that changes you, and life as you know it, in many expected and surprising ways – most everyone recognizes this. Perhaps less recognized, is that having your second child is often just as, if not even more, full of surprises and changes than with your first. You think you have this parenting thing figured out with one, and then realize that what worked for them isn’t going to cut it for the second. There’s beauty in the reality that as your family grows and changes, you all change and grow together. This is something that Jeemaa, jewelry maker and TLB sponsor, is experiencing right now! She shares some of her thoughts in a brief interview below, and shares some of the creations that her new baby boy have inspired with The Leaky Boob community through a giveaway further down the page.
TLB: First of all, congratulations Jeemaa, on the arrival of your new baby! How is everyone adjusting to this cute new family member?
Jeemaa: Thank you so very much! We are overjoyed to welcome our son Oliver. He is adorable and we are all slowly adjusting to our new hectic life! The first couple of weeks were rough for our two year old Zachary, but he has quickly turned into a loving and caring big brother. It melts my heart when I see him bond with his little brother!
TLB: Have you been able to enjoy some quality down time since the birth?
Jeemaa: At the moment, it is hard to find time for myself, but my husband and I try to save Friday nights for DVR date night. We really look forward to it! Once we establish a good routine that works for everyone, I am sure I will be able to have some quality time for myself.
TLB: Have you noticed anything different with your breastfeeding experience this time around, and has it changed any of your views on breastfeeding?
Jeemaa: Breastfeeding did not come easy to me with my first. The first few months were a blur and all I remember is a lot of pain, problems with latching, mastitis more than a few times and the list goes on. I was pretty close to giving up but kept telling myself one more week. I think Zachary was about five months when I could finally say “OK, I think I can do it!” The second time around, it has been a lot easier! Oliver latched on like a seasoned pro! I still had a few of the same issues (e.g., mastitis, oversupply) that I had with my first, but I knew where to look for answers. I think my views on breastfeeding are evolving and I am definitely more respectful and understanding of others’ decisions – whatever that might be.
TLB: What is your favorite breastfeeding tip?
Jeemaa: I have two. Have contact information for a good lactation consultant handy! My life saver is Chris Harter in Columbus, Ohio. She is an amazing woman full of knowledge and life time experience! Also, take advantage of the breastfeeding help lines!
TLB: How has your new baby affected your jewelry making business, and do you have any special plans for 2013?
Jeemaa: A new baby means less time and I have to use my limited time wiser. It also means new inspirations and new ideas! Just starting from last week, Oliver started grabbing my necklace with his tiny hands. I noticed that he loves grabbing the chunky textured wooden beads more and I thought I don’t have enough of those in my shop. I love colors … especially the colors I find in semi precious stones. Combining his favorite textured beads with my favorite semi precious stone beads, I created more Teething Ring Statement Necklaces. I love the way they look and feel and would like to offer two of them for the TLB readers. I hope you will like them as much as Oliver and I do!
_________________________
Jeemaa is giving away two (2) different prizes to two (2) lucky Leakies – one prize each. The prizes are:
- A Teething Ring Statement Necklace with Rose Quartz: Made of all natural maple ring, wooden beads and a coin shaped flat Rose Quartz stone. It is simple yet pretty! The textured beads and the movable wooden ring will keep the lil ones’ hands busy. Retail Value: $16.00
- A Teething Ring Statement Necklace with Turquoise: Made of all natural maple ring, wooden beads and a coin shaped flat Turquoise stone. It is simple yet pretty! The textured beads and the movable wooden ring will keep the lil ones’ hands busy. Retail Value: $16.00
Currently Leakies can find these necklaces (and others!) in Jeemaa’s Etsy shop:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/109554099/nursing-necklace-teething-ring-statement
https://www.etsy.com/listing/122924417/nursing-necklace-teething-ring-statement
_________________________
Good luck to everyone! Please use the widget below to be entered. The giveaway is open from March 5, 2013 through March 11, 2013. A big thanks to Jeemaa and Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy for their ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women; please be sure to visit their Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.
This giveaway open to international entries.
