Respect the Water

Everyone needs water. We wash with it; cook with it. Some drink the recommended 8 glasses of water each day. And during the summer months, many of us are at the pool or on the beach splashing in it. Unfortunately the increase in summer water fun can turn tragic.  According to the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) more than 4000 accidental drownings happen each year. And sadly, drowning is the leading cause of death for children between the ages of 1-4 years.

So how can your family still enjoy the water parks and not become a statistic? Here are some tips from the American Red Cross:

• Make sure everyone in the family learns to swim well;
• Swim in a designated area supervised by lifeguards;
• Always swim with a buddy; and,
• Never leave a young child unattended near water.

As you enjoy family time this summer, have fun, stay safe and respect the water.

New Mom, Old Message

 I'm blessed to work with a program that helps new and expecting Moms prepare for life. Specifically, we share life skills that we hope will prepare them for the ups and downs of parenting. It takes me back to when I was a new Mom with "stars in my eyes". I had everything planned out; or so I thought. There is absolutely nothing wrong with making plans, however new parents have to realize the reality of life after baby; Baby is in charge! And nearly everything you do, is surrounded by the needs of your baby; your schedule, your budget, your activities are all lead by that little one.

However, no matter if it's present day of thinking back when I was a new Mom more than 20 years ago, the same old rules apply. Here are some suggestions:

*Ask for help:  Please don't try to be Super Mom and think you must know everything about parenting in the first week. Getting advice from a more seasoned parent you trust can make life a little easier.

*Be Flexible:  The baby won't stop crying because you have a ZOOM meeting or they may need a diaper change just as you are going out the door on the way to the baby sitter. Realize things will happen that are out of your control. 

*Create Self Care Time:  Even if it's a walk around the block, alone or sitting in a warm bubble bath at night, find ways to get some well deserved me time and be consistent with self-care.