Going Back to Au Naturel

It's funny. You'd think that being pregnant would be a time when going "au naturel" would make the most sense. And I'm referring to health supplements, not strutting around naked (although I don't judge those who wish to do so). And yet, pregnant women are advised not to take anything herbal or "natural", not because they are necessarily bad for the growing babe, but because there's been no testing of such products on pregnant women.

I recently interviewed a couple of researchers at BCIT who are trying to fill the gap in how effective Natural Health Products (NHPs) really are. Not only do they hope to determine efficacy of NHPs through a holistic approach, but they also plan to see what additional benefits NHPs may have that have not been traditionally explored. You can see my story at Innovation Canada.ca.

Now that I'm in the homestretch (38 weeks pregnant and counting), I'm looking forward to having my babe and also being able to enjoy NHPs again, starting with my soothing herbal teas and essential oils.

I bet some of you are wondering what my take on birthing and going "natural" is. Let's just say I'm keeping an open mind! Here's hoping for an "easy birth"--an oxymoron, I'm told.

Wishing for Sunshine (a la Scottsdale)

So we're officially winding down summer although many Albertans would argue that we never had a summer to begin with. This year's summer was one of the most dismal weather-wise that I can remember. But, I have had it pointed out to me that it was the perfect pregnancy summer because apparently scorching heat is the worst for expectant mothers. I can only imagine since there was nary a day that we cracked 20 degrees Celsius. I'm sure my fetus and I could have dealt with just a little more heat.

Thankfully, I can reminisce about my spring trip to Scottsdale--where sunshine and heat are plentiful. We went down for my girlfriend Libby's wedding and of course, I couldn't help but write a story about our Arizona adventures, which published this month in both Avenue Calgary magazine and Avenue Edmonton (page 62).

Four Seasons' stunning pool area

We had a blast wandering through Old Town Scottsdale along with wining and dining at the likes of Talavera at the ultra luxe Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North. That resort is oh-so-lovely, making it easy to sit back, relax and soak up the sun. We also took to the skies in a hot-air balloon ride. And of course, we shopped. Arizona has no shortage of outlet malls!

We can't wait to make our way back. Have a read and see for yourself what Scottsdale has to offer.

Here's hoping we get a balmy autumn...