Community

Recently, I have had one friend give birth to a beautiful baby boy and another friend who is about to deliver any minute. I was thinking of these two women today and all the wonderful excitement that is surrounding them at this time. However, with all the blessings and joy that come with having a baby, there is also some stress as well.

A real sense of community and involvement surrounding a woman after she has a baby is so important. Giving her the support that she needs, whether it be emotional, physical or spiritual is one of the best baby gifts one can give. I was thinking about all of this today when it occurred to me that in America, we tend to shy away from the "tribal" aspect of raising a child. When we help those who are doing the hard work of giving birth and raising good and productive members of society,we all win.

If there are people in your life that are new parents or a family who just needs some help here and there, I encourage you to go out and find a way that can give them a hand. Here are two recipes and a couple of suggestions on how you can help a new family out. Cheers!

Pregnant woman who has one or more children at home:
Offer to take them to a pool, museum or even just to your home for a few hours. This gives the mother and father some time to just relax or get some things done around the house. Like nursery prep.

Pregnant woman recipe: Triple Berry Smoothie 

• 1/4 cup strawberries
• 1/4 cup raspberries 
• 1/4 cup blueberries
• 1/4 cup whole milk organic yogurt 
• sprig of mint
• tsp of honey

Blend over ice and serve. Many women when they are pregnant do not have a lot of room for a big meal. This is a lovely and refreshing way to get good nutrients in their system, without creating bloat and fatigue. 

Family that has just had a baby: 

Offer to help out with chores or errands. Bring the new mom comfy socks or teas, anything that will ease any pain or uncomfortable moments.

New family recipe: Shrimp and corn salad 

• Five ears of corn, kernels cut off 
• One pound of cooked, tail-off and deveined shrimp
• Two roma tomatoes cubed
• One mango peeled and cubed
• 1/2 of one red onion sliced thin
• Juice of one lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Dash of hot sauce 

Toss in a large serving bowl and bring over to the hungry new family. It will keep for several days and is good in omelette's, in a whole wheat wrap or on a bed of greens. It is versatile and will be a big hit for hungry folks.