I am a Mom Guilt procrastinator of the highest order. I always have the best intentions to get things done and keep up with my To-Do list, but it never happens.

The winter season often brings with it a flurry of respiratory viruses, ranging from the common cold to more serious conditions like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Many of us experience “winter blues,” which is a temporary, “Tell me again, why do we live in this climate?” kind of thing. Beyond that, though, is seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, which is absolutely no joke.

I have decided to take a dose of my own medicine. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, I worked in a Preventive Cardiology clinic where, day in and day out, I helped patients set goals to better their own health. The typical method I used when helping people set goals was to make a S.M.A.R.T goal.

Planning to expand your family is an exciting time, but before you see that positive pregnancy test, it’s important to be proactive. Preconception counseling is a vital first step to ensure you and your future baby are set up for the best start possible.

What you eat is probably top of everyone’s list when it comes to changes in a new year. We’re big fans of eating loads of fruits and vegetables, and we’ve come up with a variety of ways to do that. We’ve also worked hard to make it super simple for you to keep an eye on which produce items are at their peak each week by updating that information every week online here.

As a new or expecting mom, you deserve support that understands and empowers you through every stage of breastfeeding. At Prevea, our Certified Lactation Counselors—many of whom are also Certified Nurse Midwives—are part of the local healthcare community, and they’re ready to walk alongside you on your feeding journey.

Most people picture doulas in the delivery room — rubbing a mother’s back, holding her hand, whispering encouragement. And yes, we do that. But the truth is, birth is only the starting line.

A Certified Nurse Midwife is a highly trained health professional who specializes in women’s health and obstetrics. CNMs hold advanced nursing degrees and national certification.

Over the past year, I have been grieving the loss of a broken friendship. I have been through this before, as I am sure many of you have also, but my kids, especially my daughter, were watching me in the aftermath.