How Motherhood Made Me Healthier
The moment that Lucas was born instantly changed my views on a lot of things-one of them being health. I understood that Mike and I were solely resposnsible for the health of our child. We were responsible for what he would eat and drink. We were responsible for putting sunscreen on him. Getting his swim lessons. Encouraging him to be active. We were responsible for all of his medical decisions. All of a sudden, it wasn't just me that I was responsible for. I also knew that we had to make some changes in the way that we lived because he would look to us as role models. No more waiting for tomorrow or "one day." The time was now. We had to overhaul our way of life. We had to start eating better. Exercising more. Being outside more. Cutting out bad habits.
It's been four years since Lucas was born and in that time, we have made many positive changes in our life. We try to buy as much organic and locally grown food as possible (and our budget permits). Most of all, we focus on only eating real, whole food and skip the preservative-laden, pre-packaged stuff. We cook as a family so that Lucas is involved in the process and develops a love for food-real food. We bought bikes and take bike rides at the park. We go on walks and hikes and make sure to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. We try to limit our exposure to chemicals and make our own household cleaners. We also focus more on the health of the planet and try to make more eco-friendly choices.
We still have a long way to go and it's a learning process for us too, but Lucas can see that we are trying to live a better life. A healthy life. And, in my mind that is one of the most important things we can do for him.
Children's health is at the top of every mother's mind. What's your favorite tip for raising a healthy baby? By replying, you will be entered to win an exclusive Million Moms Challenge Gift Pack, which includes an iPad2, a custom-made Million Moms Challenge pendant and a $50 donation in your name to Global Giving.
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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Million Moms Challenge. The opinions and text are all mine. Contest runs November 14 to December 18, 2011. A random winner will be announced by December 20, 2011.