I’m trying to figure out why my bladder is so near my eyes these days. I often think because I buried my emotions for so long there was a backlog of tears or else I’m simply drinking to much… water that is!!! I had a crap birthday; no ones fault and I was feeling really sorry for myself. I was actually just feeling very sad all week. In the midst of my frustration my friend Orla without even realizing made me smile and cry for all the right reasons. As often happens I had no one to mind James so Orla took him again! Senan, Orlas son is the same age as James and it is often at this point I am dumped as James “bef Friend”. Very fickle and not very loyal you might think or very smart depending, which way you look at it.

I got home from work and was greeted by a birthday cake (meant to be a surprise but James couldn’t wait to tell me) I acted totally shocked and did such a good job I’m rethinking my acting career. We decided to have a sleepover and the next morning Orla and her hubby took James to rugby tots with Senan and let me have a lie in. Then they brought me back coffee and my favourite bagel. To top that on mother’s day a card was posted through my letterbox and it was from James. “Senans Mum did that with me” James said at which point I started crying.

It really is the little things in life that we overlook every day. I’m not sure Orla even realizes just what she did. Even with my Mum and good friends I struggle so much as a single Mum. Sometimes I get so overwhelmed I can barely breathe. However I have been assured that I’m not alone and by this I mean my friends who are married have admitted to feeling exactly the same way. It’s good to know you’re not alone. Taking one day at a time and beginning Deepak/Oprahs 21 day meditation challenge is keeping me focused but I am reminded again how easy we fall but I am also reminded how the kindness of others can turn a persons life around and most of the time they don’t even know it.

I just love this 3 in 1 Activity Mat available in various colours. €94.95

This is an activity mat with a difference though as it folds into 3 positions:

1. Activity mat from 0 -6 months

2. Play mat 0-12 months

3. Mini sofa 1-4 years

It’s also machine washable and rolls up for easy storage!!

Available from Piquant Baby & Kids Store, Powerscourt Centre, Dublin 2.www.piquantbaby.ie

No more slipping and struggling with tongs. These simple but genius Innosense Unique Silicon Tongs are another little step towards making mums life a bit easier – €3.99 Mothercare

ASK ALISON:

Hi Alison,

My little girl has a constant cough and it feels like the winter has gone on forever. With all this debate about antibiotics recently have you come across any natural alternatives?

Thanks,

Pamela Dublin

Hi Pamela,

First of all you always need to check with your doctor and explain your reservations about antibiotics. Midwife Maggie Evans recommends for babies over 12 months that you “Listen” to the cough – a “whoop” (whooping cough), “barking” (croup), or “wheezy” (bronchiolitis)
Croup, a common winter cough, in children is relieved by moist air – try inhaling air in a steamy bathroom, outside or open the freezer door for a few minutes. A cool air vapouriser in the bedroom is also effective.

Allow the body’s immune system to respond to a simple cough – ensure ample rest, dilute fluids, nourishing food and patience. You can also try a cough remedy, especially those containing honey and lemon. Honey is well known not only for its great taste, but also for being a great natural remedy. Honey may indeed help with sore throats and nighttime coughs in children and that’s why I use Nelsons Sootha, a honey rich formula with zesty lemon. Nelsons Sootha cough syrup is free of artificial colourings or flavourings and does not cause drowsiness. Suitable for children aged 12 month onwards. Bryonia, more commonly known as Bryony, is a yellow flowering climbing plant, which has been used in homeopathic tradition for the symptomatic relief of coughs.

FOR BABY:

Nelsons Sootha is available from independent health stores and pharmacies nationwide
RRP €7.25

FOR MUM:

If you suffer from allergies like me you’ll need these so you can see your children Optrex SOOTHING Eye Drops – RRP €4.67

THIS FORTNIGHT WE ARE:

Visiting animal farms and getting outside, as it’s a great time of the year for your child to learn about new life and growth. You might even catch a lamb being born! Plant seeds in the garden or make a bird feeder. USING Aveeno Dermexa to soothe and hydrate skin. Providing relief from dry, red, and, itchy skin, it is suitable for babies from as little as three months of age. BUYING ‘pre-loved’ designer kids clothes at recession prices — from designers like Chloe, Baby Dior, Catamini, Ralph Lauren, Timberland and more. www.twicesmitten.ie