The debate over breastfeeding vs formula has been really heating up over the past several years. I would like to see is more discussion that breastfeeding is a lifestyle choice that must fit the dynamics of the family. I could not do this without the support of my husband, or if I had the work schedule that I did in the US or Montreal. Our lifestyle allows me to breastfeed … [Read more...]
Balancing Work and Motherhood in France
As you may have noticed, I have not been consistently writing since my daughter was born. In fact, I only wrote one in October and nothing in November. Finally, I am getting back on the wagon. I received 77 days of maternity leave from the French government. Since I am an auto-entrepreneur (similar to a sole proprietor in the USA), I am on the honor system that I don't work … [Read more...]
Giving Birth in France – My Birth Story
On October 6, I gave birth to a healthy baby girl in the small city of Bayeux in France. Juliana was born on her French due date and not a moment sooner than she was ready. We had an eventful, long and difficult labor – of which, I have mixed feelings about my experience at this French hospital. Early afternoon on October 6, my husband’s mother was visiting us to help clean … [Read more...]
Bringing an Infant or Child to a Restaurant in France is Unusual
Sunday was another beautiful day and we decided to end it by going out for a nice dinner in Bayeux. There was a restaurant that we passed by earlier in the week that we knew we would have to try out called Lion d'Or. After having a wonderful 3-course dinner, I looked around and realized that there were no children. Yes, it was a bit fancy but it was the only restaurant at this … [Read more...]
French Feminist Warns that Going Green is Bad for Women’s Rights
I never thought that by deciding to breastfeed, use cloth diapers and opt for organic food would be putting women in France in jeopardy of losing the progress they have made in women's rights. In her book, Le Conflit : La Femme et La Mère, Elisabeth Badinter attacks politicians, breastfeeding advocates and psychologist for turning French women into slaves. She further … [Read more...]