Mamatotowear

Britt Fohrman's Birth Photography

2009-03-06T14:09:00.000-08:00

If you would like to have your pregnancy, birth or family photographed here is a great resource for you…. I have a sort of complex relationship to photography, I don’t like being in pictures much and having majored in it in college I think I could be considered picky when it comes to photography… but when I saw Britt’s photowork, especially of laboring and birthing women, I was blown away by the sense of intimacy, respect and love she portrays these wonderfully private and vulnerable moments with. I cringe having my picture taken but would completely trust Britt to photograph my most intimate moments with my family, and that says a lot for me. Check out her work

Rachel Yellin’s hypnobirthing classes

2009-02-11T09:48:00.000-08:00

Rachel Yellin of One Moon is a SF Bay Area Birthing resource that is a true gem to expecting parents. She offers birth preparation classes in Hypnobirthing; a “method of natural childbirth preparation that teaches pregnant women and their partners techniques of hypnosis, guided imagery, visualization, and special breathing in order to have a more manageable birth. This preparation promotes a deeper connection between partners, joyful anticipation of the birth experience, and a dramatic increase in the belief that birth is normal, natural, and safe.” I have taken Rachel’s class and would warmly recommend it, not only does it give you confidence and techniques to manage your labor and birth, but it gives you tools for parenting and coping with challenges in general. Visit her website for more information: www.one-moon.com

Mommy on the go diaper bag!

2009-02-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

This diaper bag is completely awesome!!
The Mommy on the go diaper bag is created by Moms, as so many great products are… and this is why I love it: It’s the perfect size; it fits everything you need without being big and bulky, I tend to carry too much stuff if the bag is too big, this one is perfect. It has a feature that is very unique, it has a zip off part that is a smaller bag attached to the larger one an is easily detached if needed and voila, you have a purse. This diaper bag can be carried like a back pack or over the shoulder bag, I mainly use it as a back pack; I have my baby in the MobyWrap in the front and the Mommy on the go bag on the back J
The detachable part has wallet features, so you can actually replace both diaper bag, purse and wallet with this one piece! On the side are two pockets that fit a bottle perfectly, or like in my case when you have the bag on the back your cell phone within easy reach. Inside the large bag are several smaller compartments making it very easy to stay organized with this bag. Did I mention it comes in great patterns, is made in California and comes in a eco friendly version? Check it out!
http://www.mommyonthegobag.com/

Britt Fohrman’s prenatal Yoga classes

2009-02-09T15:35:00.000-08:00

Britt’s prenatal yoga classes are not just yoga classes. They are a community of pregnant women lead by a woman who not only breathes pregnancy and birth, an endless resource for all you need for this time in your life. I’ve been practicing yoga with Britt on and off for five years or so, and I am always challenged physically and mentally, and I always s come away with the feeling that I did something that I didn’t think I could do, and I liked it.
With all the obvious advantages of doing yoga in pregnancy and using those tools in birth, Britt will specifically prepare you for welcoming your baby during the duration of your pregnancy, and she’ll give you the opportunity to ask yourself questions that might seem obvious but always make you think and connect to yourself in a wonderful way. Check out her schedule at www.brittfohrman.com
As always, ask your health care provider if prenatal yoga is a good option for you.

Lactation cookies!!

2009-02-06T14:21:00.000-08:00

In my mom's group this week one Mama brought lactation cookies that are supposed to make you produce more milk... I tried them, liked them and decided to try and find a recipe.. I made these yesterday and they are definitely yummy, and we'll see if they make me produce more milk!

Ingredients :

* 1 cup butter or marg
* 1 cup sugar
* 1 cup brown sugar
* 4 tablespoons water
* 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal*
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
* 2 cups flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 3 cups oats, thick cut if you can get them
* 1 cup or more chocolate chips
* 2 tablespoons of brewers yeast* (be generous)

Directions:

Preheat oven at 375 degrees F. Mix together 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal and water, set aside for 3-5 minutes. Cream (beat well) margarine and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mix well. Stir flaxseed mixture and add with vanilla to the margarine mix. Beat until blended. Sift together dry ingredients, except oats and chips. Add to margarine mixture. Stir in oats then chips. Scoop or drop onto baking sheet, preferably lined with parchment or silpat. The dough is a little crumbly, so it helps to use a scoop.

Bake 8-12 minutes, depending on size of cookies.

Serves: 6 dozen cookies

Preparation time: 15 minutes

*can be found at any local health food store.
*NOTE* IT MUST BE BREWERS YEAST, NO SUBSTITUTIONS.

this is where I found the recipe

this is another article on benefits of lactation cookies

Morning sickness relief tip!

2009-02-05T16:28:00.000-08:00

I am one of those moms who has nausea throughout my pregnancies, much more in the beginning, but it hits me every once in a while. I have used a plethora of remedies, eating crackers, sour apples, frequent meals, ginger, peppermint, lemon, ice, motion sickness remedies of all kinds, and although they all work to an extent, often in combination, there is one thing that definitely saved me early in this pregnancy; Preggie Pops. They are hard “candies” that are not really sweet (anything sweet made me gag), but sour and really yummy. They were developed by healthcare professionals I found out when doing some research on this great product and they are all natural. I would say they are a definite must have for any pregnant Mama experiencing nausea in the beginning of the pregnancy.
Check them out at www.threelollies.com

Back after a long break!

2009-02-03T21:07:00.000-08:00

We are relaunching this blog!
Look out for collaborations with Prenatal Yoga specialists, reviews of products that you might want to check out when pregnant and/or breastfeeding, resources I couldn't have done without and much more.
I'll be sure to include personal notes from the frontier, I'm breastfeeding my now almost five week old son, and it's not as easy as I remembered... but just as joyful. Well, it was less painful nursing an almost two year old, which is where I left off, but more on that later..

One of my favorite blogs...

2008-04-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

Is the Poop from the San Francisco Chronicle. It’s about parenting, pregnancy, well everything baby and parenting related in Bay Area style.
They have great writers (Heather Maddan has written about Mamatotowear in both the Chronicle and LilSugar) and my favorite part is when comments get frisky there is an entry about Sunshine and Rainbows…. If you’re not familiar with it I suggest you check it out…..in my mind they seem to have found the frequency of craziness and nuance that being a parent seems to bring… read it!

Basq Soothing Foot Releif at www.mamatotowear.com

2008-04-01T16:10:00.001-07:00

Most of us have tired achy feet when pregnant, and now more than ever do we need relief for tired and swollen legs and feet! With its cooling, soothing feel, this lotion provides the perfect lift after a long day. Basq antioxidant rich blend of green tea, eucalyptus, cucumber, lavender and aloe vera and energizes and soothes fatigued feet and legs during pregnancy. The soothing tingle is the perfect all over body refresher after a brisk walk, gentle workout or long day. The refreshing lavender aromatherapy and gentle tingling make putting your feet up a pleasure. Smooth it on and relax, you’ll feel the difference immediately!

Basq is a skincare line specifically developed for pregnant Mamas, with all safe ingredients and the right smells and textures to please our senses.

This footcream is delicious, you have to have it, and good news is….you can get it right now at www.mamatotowear.com for $19.50

Mamatotowear at DayOne Center!

2008-03-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

Mamatotowear at Day One!

I am very excited to announce our new collaboration with the Day One Centers in the Bay Area!

Most moms who have babies here know about the centers, you can find them in San Francisco, Palo Alto and Walnut Creek and they have everything you need for baby as well as being a great resource center and community tie. Midwives and lactation specialists love this place and so do we!!

There is an event at the San Francisco location called living green with baby where Mamatotowear will be participating in the trunk show, and I will be giving a talk on green apparel and the importance of supporting locally produced products! My talk should start between 11:30 and noon, come check it out!

The show info is:
Saturday, March 22 2008, 11:00 am – 5 pm
DayOne Center
3490 California street, suite 900 (enter on Locust)
San Francisco, CA

I look forward to seeing you there!

Bravado Nursing Bras at mamatotowear.com!

2008-03-13T16:42:00.000-07:00

We really like Bravado nursing bras. Not only because they are great nursing bras (duh!), but because we really like the company’s approach and mission.
We like breastfeeding (obviously).
We like companies that are generous and graceful.
We like nursing products created my moms who nurse(d).
We like companies and products that are inspired by the complexities and wonders of pregnancy and breastfeeding…..

To shop for your Bravado Nursing Bra, go to www.mamatotowear.com

Mamatotowear Maternity tops….that don’t square you off, but go with your body!

2008-03-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

Mamatotowear’s maternity tops are cut differently from most other Mamaclothing. The idea is that instead of creating clothes with larger dimensions, rather looking at how the body grows specifically, and how to make clothes that follow and embrace this wonderful phase!
Our maternity tops sit on your hips with a longer front panel accommodating your growing belly. So a lot of women see this top and say “it’s way too short!” It’s not! With the 90% cotton and 10% lycra in our fabric there is a lot of stretch, and a lot of holding its shape. Instead of a longer top that makes you look wider than you are here is a top that gives room for your belly, growing and shrinking back, while giving you a tight and flattering top! Add the longer short sleeves and we have a winner!
This top comes in seven different colors and start at $48.
Enjoy!

Ingeborg Rattles

2008-02-13T21:50:00.000-08:00

Maria from Ingeborg makes these whimsical, fantasy creatures that rattle… They are one of a kinds that are handmade from recycled vintage materials.
I think they are really awesome, their shape is easy for babies to hold on to, and get mesmerized by… they come in two different shapes and endless unique color and pattern variations… gotta love these things!

How to embarrass a mother...

2008-02-11T20:18:00.000-08:00

I am fortunate enough to live minutes from a really awesome hospital, UCSF, which is a teaching hospital. Meaning that at any given time you feel like you are in some TV show with all the young, beautiful doctors around you. When I was getting ready to have my baby there happened to be heaps of amazingly attractive male doctors around, all kinda my age and just so ….great, right. I was generally a little scared and worried during my pregnancy, wasn’t sure what things were, and as they always told me it’s better to call and come in if I’m not sure or something feels strange, which I did, I guess a lot. For a while there the nurses at L&D would jokingly say, “oh the girl with the gas pain is here again…” oh well, it’s all on me. (btw we all know that that type of pain can really hurt and I didn’t know what was going on there for a while…) So when I was over a week past my due date and something started, well, seeping out, I thought my water had broke, I was so sure and excited about it, and went in. We got assigned to an amazing nurse, but first they had to check that my water had in fact broke.. and I got the bad news, from one of the hot doctors, that no, there was no water broken, it was just incontinence. After that, and the subsequent birthing experience, I feel like I was so maxed out there was nothing that could embarrass me. Almost three years later I’m not sure that’s true anymore, I guess time fuzzes things, but every once in a while I feel tempted to challenge the idea..

Motherhood changes you doesn’t it, grounds you and allows you to let go......

The First movement

2008-02-06T11:13:00.001-08:00

The first time I definitely felt my baby move in my belly I was at my friend Ajna’s house and we were having dinner and tea and playing games. I was sitting on some pillows against her glass wall and suddenly it felt like a little fish was jumping and skipping in my belly. It was brief and it must have been around 16 weeks or so. Ajna and my ex jumped to my belly to feel, but of course it was too subtle and small to be felt on the outside. But so beautiful and precious on the inside.

When did you first feel your baby move?

The Beautiful Dance

2008-02-05T13:18:00.000-08:00

It might sound unbearably cheesy or tacky, or sentimental or whatever, but I will say it anyways. (and I guess there is room for those feelings or sentiments in the mothering experience anyhow..)
I feel like since I became pregnant I’ve been dancing with my daughter. From the very first changes she made to my body, feeling her impacting everything about me, my mood, how my body felt, looked and functioned, introducing that huuuge love… you know… through feeling her actual movement in my belly, negotiating the space, always being present with her…. To carefully figuring out when and how she was going to make her appearance outside the womb through all that wonderful stuff that makes up this beautiful dance. The discovery, how we seem to read each other’s mind and know each other in so many different ways… the tantrums and frustrations, the smiles and laughs.. the squeezes and hugs, the overwhelming love that just makes you gasp in the middle of it all… and I didn’t think I was much of a dancer and now all I do is dance…

Mamatotowear Long Sleeve Nursing tops

2008-02-04T14:28:00.000-08:00

Mamatotowear’s long sleeve nursing tops have our signature nursing function with an overlapping cut under the breasts allowing for discreet and comfortable breastfeeding.
Doubling as a maternity top they have a longer front panel giving plenty of room to your growing belly and discreetly concealing your shrinking one allowing you to comfortably wear a tight top after giving birth.

A lot of Mamas like this top because it’s soooo versatile, it works on its own, to layer, I hear a lot of Mamas wearing our long sleeve nursing top under a suit to work for easy and discreet pumping…. Endless possibilities… This is really a great nursing top, and one of our best sellers.

Babyface Bellyprint!

2008-01-31T14:20:00.000-08:00

This Bellyprint was the first one we did, it’s my little girl on your belly and the funny thing with it is that with the growing belly the cheeks poof out and the image becomes quite funny, embracing the absurdity and joy of it all I guess. The whole line comes from an old concert t-shirt I wore when pregnant. It had Bjork on the front, her whole face bulging with the bump and it was wonderful.
Now this Bellyprint is on sale at the sales rack, its marked down crazy, you won’t find organic tops of this quality for a better price anywhere!! So check it out and enjoy your growing belly with humor and integrity!

Happy Places

2008-01-29T22:56:00.000-08:00

When I was pregnant with my daughter and went to my midwife’s office for a checkup I saw a mother and her toddler interacting in a way that really moved and inspired me.
The little girl was melting down, was very upset about something, and her mother kneeled down beside her and held her and got her attention. Then she said “Let’s go to our happy place”. Being pregnant and all it wasn’t that hard to move me to tears, especially in a situation where I caught a glimpse of the gentle intimacy between a mother and her child.
My daughter can be feisty, she is very strong minded and can get very upset. Except for carefully picking my battles, I find that having that channel of communication with her that I saw that mother in the waiting room have is my best tool to reach out to her when she is frustrated. (It obviously doesn't always work, but often enough it does) And I imagine it will allow me to remain close to her as she grows up, reconfiguring the natural separation that starts at birth to allow the intimacy to remain.
It’s one of those days when I just feel so grateful for having the best job in the world, being a mother. And to get the opportunity to connect with so many of you wonderful Mamas through Mamatotowear, it’s really a treat, Thank You!

Our Sales Rack!!

2008-01-28T16:27:00.000-08:00

Mamatotowear has introduced a new feature on our website. We recently had our first ever sample sale at our office, and it was really great and we decided to take it online.
You will be able to find an everchanging rack with varying pieces on it, with some serious discounts attached! There will still be things that will only be available at our actual sample sales (check back for upcoming dates!) but this is an opportunity for our Mamas outside of SF to get some nice bargains too!

Mamatotowear Awardwinning Short Sleeve Nursing tops

2008-01-22T09:21:00.001-08:00

Mamatotowear short sleeve nursing tops are really a must have staple in any pregnant and nursing Mama’s wardrobe.
It’s versatile, has lots of great features and details, and has exceptional value.
You can wear this top through pregnancy and breastfeeding, as a top on its own, casually with jeans or dressed up and layered… the possibilities are endless…
Our short sleeves are long short sleeves, to be flattering functional, giving room and being snug at the same time. (Isn’t pregnancy and motherhood all about what appears to be opposites that really mesh nicely in its apparently different directions?)
It has an overlapping cut in the front allowing for discreet breastfeeding and with the longer front panel it’s a top that sits on your hips but gives room for your growing and shrinking belly.
Being a top that is designed to be worn for a long time, during pregnancy and nursing, it’s an exceptional value at $48.
This top won the 2007 iParenting Media award for outstanding product, it’s a top that is designed by a mom, and approved and loved by moms all over!

Prenatal Yoga

2008-01-20T23:49:00.000-08:00

Prenatal Yoga is a great way to stay in shape during Pregnancy and to prepare for childbirth. Both physically and mentally I would say. For me “surrender” was a keyword both in pregnancy, childbirth and as it turns out as a mother (surrender to all the changes your body is going through and love them, surrender to the awesome forces during childbirth, and the fact that it might not happen the way you planned it, and then surrender to motherhood, the best job in the world!)

Except for the physical advantages of being strong and flexible, wonderful side effects of practicing yoga, attending a prenatal or post partum class at a local studio also offers you a great way to meet other Mamas, who are likely to become part of your great community of women and mothers and who will never grow tired of sharing tips, ideas and experiences. I think everybody needs a prenatal yoga class to go to….

Which is your favorite local Yoga Studio in your town?

Always consult your midwife or doctor before starting any exercise program!

Our books!

2008-01-17T19:18:00.000-08:00

On our website we don’t just sell our awesome Mamatotowear Nursing wear and really cool baby and kid’s clothes from Europe, we also have a few books..….

Dr, Sears is a great advocate for natural parenting, attachment parenting and Breastfeeding, and his “Baby Book” and the “Breastfeeding Book” are fantastic resources to get you through nursing and your baby’s first two years of life. I referred to these books myself, a lot, during my first year or so as a mom. And so did most of my mom friends, great great resource, a must have for all new parents!

Another great recipe for pregnancy food!

2008-01-17T19:17:00.000-08:00

When I was almost ready to pop and found I had less room in my stomach and at times severe heartburn Soups were a great way to nourish myself! (I found liquids in different forms to be easier to ingest..) And voila, here is a recipe for a Potato and Leek soup, super easy to make and delicious!

You will need…
-A few potatoes, I usually use the red ones
-Leek
-Garlic, to taste, one or two cloves
-Water or your favorite stock (*if you use stock you probably won’t need additional salt)
-butter
-salt* and pepper

Then to make it….
You sauté the finely chopped leeks in a little butter, until soft and a little brown.
Add diced potatoes, stir and let it sauté for a few minutes.
Add water or stock, a few cups, depending on the consistency you like, more water for a thinner soup…
Let it simmer until the potatoes are cooked nice and soft.
Using a hand held mixer puree the mix until smooth.
Add minced garlic, salt and pepper to taste.
Let it simmer for a little longer….
Then Enjoy!

Mamatotowear Maternity and Post Partum Lounge Pants!

2008-01-15T08:30:00.000-08:00

Mamatotowear’s Maternity and Post Partum lounge pants are a high waist pant made in a cotton/lycra fabric.
We have heard from a Mama that it’s the most comfortable pants she wore during either of her two pregnancies! That’s what we aimed for!
It fits either below or on top of the belly during pregnancy, I personally liked it on top of the belly, and post partum it is a nicely fitting high waist pant that won’t create muffin tops or other unflattering things to happen to your changing body…
These pants are very versatile, wear them to yoga, around the house, dressed up with a tunic…. Endless possibilities.

Why is breastfeeding better for you baby?

2008-01-14T16:18:00.000-08:00

Your midwife and pediatrician will tell you that breastfeeding is best for you and your baby, and research over the past few decades prove that when it comes to nutrition for your infant breastfeeding is best.

A mother’s breastmilk is specifically made for ultimate balance of nutrition for you baby, it contains uniquely complex combination of nutrients that we are currently unable to duplicate artificially, along with antibodies protecting them from a number of illnesses.

According to a report by the US Breastfeeding Committee summarizing current research around the benefits of breastfeeding compared to formula feeding babies.

Breastfed babies:
-are generally healthier, and when they do get sick they have fewer symptoms and are sick a shorter time.
-are less likely to catch and suffer from infectious illness and their symptoms like diarrhea, ear infections and meningitis.
-are less likely to contract food and waterborne illness like salmonella.
-score higher on cognitive and IQ tests at school age.
-if they are breastfed for at least four months and have a family history of juvenile onset diabetes they have a lower risk to suffer from it.
-have a lower incidence of SIDS.
-have a lower list of the two most common inflammatory bowel diseases.
-are less likely to suffer from some forms of cancer including childhood leukemia.
-are significalntly protected against asthma and eczema.
-have lower risk of childhood and adolescence obesity.
-are less likely to require braces.

Thank you for breastfeeding you baby!

Thank you Mamas!

2008-01-12T18:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday and today's sample sale was great, thanks for coming out!
The best part of my job is when I get to meet you, the Mamas, and share stories and see who wears Mamatotowear clothes. It's truly a treat and I am very grateful!
Stay tuned for our next sample sale coming up and look for our sales rack online!
All smiles!

Spinach Quiche!

2008-01-11T16:48:00.000-08:00

Spinach Quiche!

This is the first recipe of hopefully many to follow on great and easy food to eat when you’re preggers or nursing. I thought it was especially important to eat homecooked meals made from high quality ingredients when my body was performing at peak level!

The recipes are heartburn friendly and everything gets cooked thoroughly to avoid gases in mama and baby…
This quiche is also great pregnancy food since you can keep it in the fridge for a day or two and get good meals inbetween meals too… I’m no Martha Stewart, and you should feel free to play around and substitute anything you like, it’s really just a guide to a delicious meal…

The Ingredients:
- about a stick of butter (!)
- lots of spinach, several bundles
- lots of broccoli
- Whole wheat flour
- A little water
- Garlic, a few cloves if you like it
- About 5 eggs
- A little milk
- Cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper

How you make it:

To make the crust, and this might not be the conventional way to do it, but it’s how I do it and it works great… you take butter at room temperature, soft but not runny, use about three quarters of the stick for the crust. Mix it with whole wheat flour, enough to make it crumbly and mixed up, usually a few cups. Add a little salt. Add about a tablespoon of water to make it hold together nicely. Let it rest cold for about a half hour or so.

Heat the over to about 400 degrees. (you know your oven best, 400-410 degrees F..)

Take your oven safe dish and dress the sides and the bottom with the crust dough. Bake it in the oven for about ten minutes, until a little brown.

Boil the spinach in water for a few minutes, not a lot, just a bit!

Heat a wok or pan and put the rest of the butter along with chopped garlic in there. Add the broccoli and boiled spinach, well drained! Wok for a little while, salt and pepper to taste.

While the veggies are cooking beat the eggs and the milk together, salt and pepper like you would an omelette, to taste!
Pour the veggies into the crust and spread evenly in the form. Add the egg and milk mix. Bake in the oven for about a half hour or until the eggs are well cooked. Then spread some cheddar cheese on top and bake for another ten minutes or so. Let the quiche rest for a while before eating, fifteen minutes or so will do!
Enjoy!!!

Our Teas!

2008-01-10T19:20:00.000-08:00

I always like drinking tea, there seems to be an appropriate tea for all occasions…

There are special teas that are especially beneficial during pregnancy and breastfeeding and at www.mamatotowear.com you can find Yogi Teas’ “Mother to Be” and “Nursing Mom” teas to enjoy during this precious time. They help tone and balance your specific needs preparing you for what you need, a yummy way to take care of yourself!

Yogi Teas are organic and delicious, if you haven’t tried them yet you have missed out!!

Mamatotowear Sample Sale this week!

2008-01-09T19:40:00.000-08:00

On Friday January 11 from 2-5 pm and Saturday January 12 from 10 am-1 pm we will host the first ever Sample Sale at our office in San Francisco.

We are making room for new clothes and are selling some of our nursing wear at 10-70% off normal retail price! This sale is at our showroom only, the discounts will not be available online.

We will also have our other merchandise available, so if you’ve been eyeing our cool baby clothes and would like to see them live, this is your opportunity!

The address is 3896 Noriega street at the corner of 46th Avenue in San Francisco, CA 94122.

I look forward to seeing you here!

Peace Bellyprint

2008-01-08T07:34:00.000-08:00

When I was working on expanding Mamatotowear’s line of Bellyprints one of the first to come to mind was a Peace Sign.
It’s not about party politics, or world politics for that matter, it can be about any peace you want. It seems that a baby that grows in a peaceful belly is off to a good start.
I think somehow Mamas want peace for their babies, and peace starts within each of us, so let your love beam and don a vibrant Peace Sign on your belly.
Be Peace!

Benefits of Breastfeeding

2008-01-07T07:55:00.000-08:00

It’s not secret that I am a breastfeeding advocate, I try to make women’s breastfeeding experience comfortable and easy for a living, and I myself nursed my daughter for two years.

For me that decision to breastfeed came easy, my mother nursed me for a year and a half and my brother for two and a half, so when I was pregnant I didn’t really consider not breastfeeding. And then I learned about all the benefits…

Breastfeeding wasn’t always easy for me, I had to use a nipple shield the first couple of months because my daughter couldn’t latch onto my tiny nipples and after about four months my nipples were so sore I thought I was going to die every time I nursed. (It got better..) And my girl was a marathon nurser; for a while there I counted that I spend about eight hours a day breastfeeding… But with the help of a great lactation consultant and a lot of patience, and knowing that you are doing yourself and your baby a huge favor I think most Mamas are able to nurse their babies.

So what are some of the benefits of breastfeeding?

- It’s invaluable in the bonding process with your baby. Such precious time!
- Your breastmilk is specifically made for your baby, it’s the best balanced nutrition for your infant.
- Breastmilk has antibodies to protect your baby from common illnesses.
- Breastfed babies have less allergies.
- Breastfeeding Mamas lose their babyweight easier as nursing facilitates weightloss.
- Breastfeeding protects from Breast and Ovarian cancer.
- When you breastfeed it’s easy to be out and about with your babe, your food is always conveniently packaged and ready to use! And it’s free!

To find out how Mamatotowear’s nursing tops make your breastfeeding a breeze visit our website at www.mamatotowear.com

Moonkids!

2008-01-06T17:30:00.000-08:00

Another brand my sylish friend told me about, and to say the least raved to me about was Moonkids. And I know why. With me, brands need to first pass some pretty vigorous political tests, like where are the clothes made, does everyone get paid fair, what are the working conditions like, how is the industry’s pollution in the country it’s produced, what are the materials…? Then I question the quality… it has to be great, I’m very picky.
Then…. How do the clothes look? Well take a look! J
Moonkids make these retro looking kids clothes, using all the right colors and materials to be just right, all the time. Most of the clothes are unisex, and can be mixed and matched endlessly. When I fell in love was when I met the yellow crawlers, but at this point I can’t say I have one favorite, I love the whole collection. And so does my daughter, who is very particular about what she wears. She especially loves her yellow sweater. It’s very cool and she gets lots of compliments!
Mamatotowear is Moonkids’ agent in the US, so if you want to see the clothes in a store near you, let us know where and let them know about us!

Ingeborg Kids clothes at Mamatotowear.com

2008-01-04T10:10:00.000-08:00

Whenever I go back to Europe I am stuck by all the cool clothes my friend’s kids wear, and my oldest and way most fashionable friend Maria gave me some tips when it came to stylish brands to represent in the US.
One is Ingeborg. Ingeborg is one of a kind pieces made from recycled vintage materials from the 1960’s and 1970’s. Very cool bold colors and patterns, great for outfitting your very individual and cool kid, and noone will ever dress the same…
Maria, the designer, is a Mom and a seamstress, her studio is in central Goteborg where she also lives with her family. I love working with and supporting Maria’s work, both because she contributes with awesome stylish clothes for our awesome babies, but also because she fully embraces the idea of Eco Conscious and Fair Made. All her clothes are made in Goteborg and all the materials are recycled. With all the love going into collecting the great fabrics over time, and then lovingly sewing them into exclusive pieces of clothing and toys (rattles and soft toys) guarantees the flow of good Karma.

What’s so great about Mamatotowear’s Awardwinning NursingWear?

2008-01-02T15:44:00.000-08:00

Mamatotowear makes nursingwear that allows breastfeeding moms to nurse comfortably without showing skin or compromising style.
In 2007 we won the iparenting Media Award for outstanding product, mom designed and approved!
How it works is the top has an overlapping cut below the breasts, letting you lift the top panel to access your breast.
The design is based on a thousands of years old tradition, in Bronze age garments there was a similar function with a low scooped undergarment with a very short shirt on top giving easy access to the breast. Mamatotowear’s nursingwear is the contemporary version of making clothes that fits the purpose and the woman.
After giving birth most moms I have talked to don’t want to expose their belly while nursing, problem solved with our nursing tops!
It turns out that most moms want to look stylish and feel that they look good (I know, this is a shocker), and they want to be able to nurse their babes on the go. Today’s mom does not want to be confined to her house with her baby, they want to go out and do stuff, see their friends, go to cafes, eat out…
And we think it’s better to just bring your beautiful self and your baby sans tent to cover yourself when breastfeeding, hence Mamatotowear Nursing Wear!
Enjoy!

The language we use matters

2007-11-06T09:37:00.000-08:00

I got this article link sent in one of my mother's groups and thought it was worth sharing.

Pre and Post natal supplements at Mamatotowear.com

2007-11-02T17:33:00.000-07:00

We have worked together with Biotheraphy clinic in San Francisco to select supplements that help keep you healthy during and after pregnancy.
Also, don't forget to check out Ingeborg children's clothing, one of a kind pieces made from vintage recycled materials, very cool and stylish!

Sign up for Mamatotowear's newsletter and get great information and deals on great things for you and baby!

2007-10-31T10:48:00.001-07:00

Hi Mamas!
Our newsletter is growing and we are starting and building great collaborations with companies and professionals who are great resources for the pregnant and nursing Mama.
Check back often for new and great discounts, sample sales, new products and new resources.
We have a lot of new things happening all the time, check back often to not miss out!
Have a beautiful day!
Hanna

Mamatotowear at Appel and Frank in San Francisco, Saturday June 23

2007-06-22T11:55:00.000-07:00

Mamatotowear will be participating in the Babes and Babies event hosted by Appel and Frank at the SFJCC.

The event is a JCCSF, 3200 California Street @ Presidio street from 10-3.

There will be lost of goodies for Mamas and Babies, and lots of great discounts, come check it out!

Come shop Mamatotowear and have a great fun day!

Biotherapy Clinic in San Francisco

2007-05-31T16:06:00.000-07:00

in San Francisco and Redwood City there are Biotherapy clincs run by Peter and Felix Melamed, a father and son team.
They offer acupuncture for pain releif, weight loss, thyroid issues, lactation and a lot of other problems. They can also help us with healing herbal treatment and massage.
I have been going to them for acupuncture for Thyroid probelms I developed after having my daugther and I am really happy with what's happening! They also do colon hydrotherapy and whole body cleansing, if you are ready to shed baby pounds or are pregnant and need relief from aches and pains, or if you want to produce more milk for your baby, you should give them a call.

They can be found at 2215 Post street suite 1 in San Francisco phone number (415) 409-3939 and at 52 Arch street Suite 5 in Redwood City phone number (650) 365-3640.
And always online at www.biotherapy-clinic.com

Tell them Hanna from Mamatotowear sent you!

Link

Mamatotowear at ACNM annual meeting in Chicago!

2007-05-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

Mamatotowear participated in the exhibition at this year's annual meeting for the American College of Nurse Midwives in Chicago, IL.

We are overwhelmed by the positive response and the number of new collaborators this weekend far away from home generated, and so grateful! The traffic to our booth was heavy and steady, we had visitors from all over the country equally excited about our nursingwear and impressed with the simplicity and cleverness of all the features of our clothes.

My wonderful husband Jonas ran the booth and talked to all the Midwives, Doulas, Lactation consultants and birthing professionals at the convention about our line of nursing wear and the reviews were all raves!
The show ran from Saturday evening through Monday lunch and Jonas didn't get much of a break... it's always so much fun and seems effortless when we present our products to pros in the breastfeeding line of work since they always get it and see how all our clothes's functions make breastfeeding sucha breeze.

There was also a very special guest to us personally, our awesome, fantastic midwife Tekoa King was there, and Jonas was very excited to see her again. I was a little jealous, she is such a warm and wonderful person, you wouldn't find a more caring and genuinely sweet person anywhere.

Thank you for being part of our good Karma!

Thank you all the participants and visitors to this year's ACNM annual meeting, we hope to see you again soon!

Mamatotowear at Kickin in Chicago!

2007-05-29T11:05:00.001-07:00

Mamatotowear nursing apparel can now be found at Kickin in Chicago!
Kickin is an active boutique for moms-to-be and babies and can be found at 2124 W. Roscoe street.

Check out this great boutique and shop for your Mamatotowear Clothes

Spread the good Karma with Mamatotowear in Chicago!

Mamatototwear at Natural Resources in San Francisco!

2007-05-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

Mamatototwear nursing clothes can now be found at Natural Resources at 1367 Valencia street, at 25th street in San Francisco.

We are very excited to work with Natural Resources, it's sucha great store. One new feature that they have is that members can check out slings to try them. They also have everything you could imagine for pregnancy and baby, like my friend said today, all pregnant women in San Francisco go to Natural Resources.

Visit the store and check out Mamatotowear and all the other goodies!

Mamatotowear in ZenBaby Boutique in Flagstaff, AZ!

2007-05-21T17:11:00.001-07:00

We are very happy to announce that you can find Mamatotowear's Maternity tops with Bellyprints at ZenBaby Boutique in Flagstaff, AZ!

The address is: 3500 W. Mountain Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

Spread the good Karma in AZ with Mamatotowear!

Mamatotowear at Waddle and Swaddle in Berkeley!

2007-05-18T15:10:00.000-07:00

We are proud to announce that the awesome Baby and Mama store Waddle and Swaddle in Berkeley now carries our Mamatotowear line!

They have a great collection of Slings, Wraps, strollers, baby clothes as well as a special nursing section with great accesories for the Breastfeeding Mama! Waddle and Swaddle also has a lending library with great books for everything Pregnancy and Baby.

Please visit the store at: 1677 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709.

Have a beautiful afternoon!

Mamatotowear in the San Francisco Chronicle!

2007-05-13T13:16:00.000-07:00

In today's Style section in San Francisco Chronicle there is an article about modern nursing where Mamatotowear is featured!

Mamatotowear's clothes are meant to be worn thorugh pregnancy and nursing, saving you money and with our business model you are also supporting a healthy community and planet!

Click on the title to find the article!

Have a beautiful mother's day!

article

Another Thank you to East Bay Mamas!

2007-05-07T12:25:00.000-07:00

Mamatotowear was part of Feria Urbana ( www.feriaurbana.com ) on Friday at the Oakland Museum of California.
It's always great to bring Mamatotowear to the East Bay, I love to meet the Eco conscious mamas who question where apparel is made and who promote health through breastfeeding for both babes and mamas. It' s a true pleasure to get to meet you!
I also got to meet some truly talented and nice exhibitors who will be introduced on our links page this week.

Thanks to Darcy for putting this great event together, we look forward to participating again in the future!

Baby Celebration Los Angeles!

2007-05-03T13:49:00.000-07:00

We are back in San Francisco after a great weekend at Baby Celebration in Los Angeles.
It was so nice meeting all the beautiful mamas and cool vendors, congratulations to Seascapes Production for a great first run of Baby Celebration, we look forward to coming back next year!

During the show we had a daily giveaway of a short sleeve nursing top and our lucky winners are Joy Tolentino and Shannon Anderson, congratulations and Enjoy your tops!

Please take a moment to visit some of our new contacts, vendors of some really neat stuff:
www.twoplumspaper.com for cards and invitations
www.jennybecs.com for cool toys
www.babyfabulous.com for supersoft custom made blankets and other great things
www.babaseatskins.com for some of the coolest strollers and baby seat covers around!

Have a beautiful day!

Great ways to get back in shape......

2007-04-21T18:12:00.000-07:00

I found these tips to get in shape for summer on a blog in Swedish and thought it would be fun to translate and share:

Forget the low carb diet, try the TM (Toddler Method). If you have tried every possible diet without satisfactory results, keep reading, this is a foolproof way to get in shape for summer. It's a well known fact that twoyearolds in general are slender. In a collaboration between pediatricians, x-ray nurses, nutritionists and exhausted parents this new diet was born:

For Breakfast: One boiled egg, one piece of toast with jam. Eat two small pieces of the egg and smear the rest across the floor. Take a piece of the toast and then smear the jam over your face and your clothes.

Lunch: Four crayons (choose any color), a handful of crushed potato chips and a glass of milk. (Drink three sips and pour the rest over the floor.)

Dinner: A biscuit, one penny. Some dirt from underneath the couch.

Evening snack: Toast a piece of bread and throw it on the floor. Take four sips of your evening bath water.

To make this diet as effective as possible, add some suitable exercise. Here are some examples:

*Squirm around the floor of a supermarket, exercise your vocal cords and lungs by screaming loudly. Make vigorous resistance to the security guy who tries to carry you outside.
*Run everywhere, jump occasionally. Fall frequently, crawling in general stregnthens the muscles nice and evenly. Remember your vocal cords, scream while you run.
*Ask for a sparring partner while getting dressed. Try to resist getting clothes on your body. Do not stop at the first set of clothes, demand to change at least three times per occasion.

Good luck!

Link to Birth and Baby Fair in San Francisco!

2007-04-05T12:43:00.001-07:00

Here is another link to the Birth and Baby Fair in San Francisco where you can find us on Saturday April 21 from 10-3 at Fort Mason Conference Center.

www.birthandbabyfair.com

Come and see us!

2007-04-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

We are very happy to announce that we are participating in this years Baby Celebration show in Los Angeles!
There will be everything you could possibly imagine for pregnant mamas and their babies! There will be fashion shows, lectures and lots of fun!

Baby Celebration
April 28-29, 2007
Saturday 10-6, Sunday 10-5
Los Angeles Convention Center
www.seascapeproduction.com

Mamatotowear is giving away some free passes to this event, we have some VIM (Very important Mama) passes and two for one tickets. If you are interested, please email hanna@mamatotowear.com
Tickets are limited, so hurry!

Thank you East Bay Mamas!

2007-04-04T09:51:00.000-07:00

It was such a pleasure meeting all the great mamas at the East Bay Baby Fair in Berkeley, thank you!
We are also going to participate in the Birth and Baby Fair in San Francisco at the Fort Mason Center on April 21st 10am- 3pm.
It's free admission and it will be a great event for pre and post natal mamas!
I look forward to seeing you there!
Please visit the website for the event: www.maternityxchange.com and feel free to email me at hanna@mamatotowear.
Happy Easter!

Welcome to Mama Chat!

2007-01-30T22:21:00.000-08:00

Periodically we will be posting news about new products, events, and locations where you can buy our products.

We hope you will take advantage of the opportunity to join and participate in our online community. Feedback and ideas are always encouraged - we want to keep you informed and we would love to hear from you as well!

Thank you and have a great day!

Hanna Bark,
CEO and Designer