Dads get down in the dumps, too

You may have seen the story in yesterday's New York Times about how it's not just women who suffer from postpartum depression (PPD)—those feelings can overwhelm fathers, too. There is so much that still needs to be done about PPD awareness even when it comes to new moms, that it's easy to overlook the issues that can plague dads, too.

I'm sure I wasn't the only one surprised to learn about the science behind male PPD. As Times writer Richard A. Friedman, M.D., explains, "there is probably more to male postpartum depression than just social or psychological stress; like motherhood, fatherhood has its own biology, and it may actually change the brain... There is also some evidence that testosterone levels tend to drop in men during their partner’s pregnancy, perhaps to make expectant fathers less aggressive and more likely to bond with their newborns. Given the known association between depression and low testosterone in middle-aged men, it is possible that this might also put some men at risk of postpartum depression."

Fortunately, there are many resources for new parents (whether you're a mother or a father) that can ease the new-parent adjustment and feelings of isolation. The Twin Cities also boast excellent counselors to help sort through more complicated responses, like PPD. For more specifics, see Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Minnesota for the Minnesota Perinatal Mental Health Resource List, as well as more information about the emotional challenges that often accompany the first years of starting a family. Fathers may also want to check out a web site devoted just to them, called Postpartum Men.

New dads, also know that Blooma caters to families — fathers, too — not just moms. Be on the lookout for special classes just for you, like infant massage for dads. Or, drop your baby off in our childcare room while you take time to breathe and move in a Yoga For You class. We know that not everything is solved with a good yoga class, but taking time for you is a good start, whether you're a new mama or a new daddy.

Love,
Alisa, Sarah & the women of Blooma

Treat yourself...

Thanks to Tot Yoga teacher Shayla Boger for another guest blog post!
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When we were expecting our first child, the thought of having our freezer stocked with food never crossed my mind. Sure, I stocked up in the usual stuff, but that certainly didn't include full meals. I am very blessed to have several wonderful friends who, for our second child, delivered meals to our family the first month post delivery. My two experiences came back to me and made a spark go off when I met this fabulous woman, Molly, who started Tastebud Tart {a catering company}. I just had to share her information with you!

Tastebud Tart offers weekly meals and personal chef services perfect for helping out busy families and new moms! What's more, Molly's meals (think curried pumpkin soup and BBQ black bean empanadas) are healthy, organic, and make use of local ingredients whenever possible.

Specifically, Tastebud Tart offers:

Weekly Meals: "Tasty food for busy folks every week! New menus are available every Thursday for orders to be delivered the following Monday or Tuesday. We always offer a Kid’s Meal at $5, too, so it’s great for busy families! Fresh + healthy meals delivered to your door... pretty sweet!"

They also use responsible, bio-degradable packaging derived from recycled materials.

Personal Chef Services: "Tastebud will develop menus especially for you + your family, if you require a more tailored menu or nutritional and allergy considerations. Rates begin at $250/week plus the cost of groceries."

Catering: "Big or small, Tastebud can turn your party into a sassy soiree! We will meet with you to discuss menu options and create a custom look + feel for your event. We have experienced staff and event planners that we work with to ensure all of your needs are met."

As a busy parent, it's hard to ask for much more than having delicious meals delivered right to your door! YUM!

Tastebud Tart— Ask for Molly.
www.tastebudtart.com
651.470.1056

xo,
shay

Post Baby Wardrobe Blues

Today we have a guest blogger, Michelle LeBlanc of Pretty Mommy. Her beautiful belly and babe have been featured in many a Blooma photo! Thanks for the postpartum style tips, Michelle!

Love, Alisa, Sarah & the women of Blooma

Honestly, it's not that hard to be a cute, stylish, pregnant woman these days...everyone from DVF, to H&M, to Target does cute maternity versions of real clothes instead of those Peter Pan collar muumuus our mothers wore. Add to the mix some cute ballet flats, leggings, and a great necklace and your worries are over. The real trouble comes post delivery when your hormones are all over the place, you haven't showered in three days, you smell like spit up and breast milk, and your old clothes are either too small are too big... argh!! and you have visitors stopping by with presents and food. So, here's Pretty Mommy to the rescue with 5 foolproof post baby wardrobe tips.

1) Take a Shower...EVERY DAY...I mean it! A shower a day keeps the crazies away! I know it can seem like an impossible task when your newborn is nursing or crying around the clock but find your spouse, or a bouncy chair and take 5 minutes for yourself.

2) Invest in some pretty Pajamas. You'll be spending a lot of time in and out of bed so skip the sweats and put on something you can receive guests in. A lovely, lightweight kimono robe is a great coverup and easy access for nursing.

3) Skip the jewelry, accesorize with a great scarf instead. In my experience it's pretty hard to wear necklaces and earrings for a while since they are either in the way or being pulled/chewed on. A large cozy scarf/shawl is a perfect pop of color, nursing coverup, blanket, spit up cloth, etc... I don't leave home without one!

4) Boyfriend Jeans are your friend. Not only are they the latest look sported by uber cool moms like Reese Witherspoon but they are the perfect rolling around the floor, haven't lost the babyweight, throw on my converse, not trying too hard style. Remember your favorite 501's in '93? These are the updated version!

5) Nursing Tank + Pretty Cardigan = Effortless style. I lived in my nursing tanks for almost 18 months and loved the ease and coverage they offered. No bare bellies, or exposing your whole chest...whew! Pair this with a long, knit cardigan and you're all set. (My personal faves all reside at JCrew.com)
For more musings on motherhood and fashion visit: www.myprettymommy.blogspot.com. And for some extra special items including the Blooma Uganda Tee visit: www.shopprettymommy.com.