Love is not abuse.

Too often, however, people become entangled in abusive relationships they mistake for love. Having seen high school from two sides now (as a student and then as a teacher), I know that this cycle of violence begins early for many of our teens…

Since I work outside the home, my decision to read Dr. Laura’s new book In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms was a bit masochistic. If you are a working mother and you pick up this book, prepare yourself for a massive guilt trip.

As I read, I tried to remind myself that this book wasn’t written for me. In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms was written for SAHMs who feel under-appreciated and who may face criticism from family and peers for their decision. And Dr. Laura provides validation, praise and talking points to use when dealing with naysayers.

On Wednesday, I’ll board a plane for the first time since my son’s birth in April 2008 to attend the BlogHer conference in Chicago. I would like to thank Medela for sponsoring my trip to BlogHer and WebmasterRadio.fm for their support.

Show mom some R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Let me tell you what it means to me.

Respect means that every member of the family has a right to feel safe. No one should feel belittled, bullied, or beaten.

If you are looking for a small gift with big meaning on Mother’s Day, try this faux-leather RESPECT! bracelet that benefits the Family Violence Prevention Fund’s RESPECT! campaign.

The Emancipation Network (TEN) is an international organization dedicated to fighting human trafficking and modern day slavery. Through Made by Survivors, TEN provides survivors of slavery and people at risk of being trafficked into slavery with an opportunity for a sustainable income, education and help reintegrating into society.

When you purchase the beautiful gifts these survivors make, you are helping survivors of slavery help themselves…

For Mother’s Day, how about an eco-chic gift that also helps women in impoverished areas avoid or overcome slavery?

The Emancipation Network (TEN) is an international organization dedicated to fighting human trafficking and modern day slavery. Through Made by Survivors, TEN provides survivers of slavery and people at risk of being trafficked into slavery with an opportunity for a sustainable income, education and help reintegrating into society.

They had me at saving women from slavery…

Politics aside, Sarah Palin’s candidacy has brought motherhood issues to public attention: special needs babies, teenage pregnancy, and breastfeeding and babywearing.
Sara Palin has been spotted wearing baby Trig in a Ingrid (Reversible) Baby Pouch Sling from Hotslings.
What a hip baby carrier! The Ingrid is cream with abstract red flowers that read as organic and nurturing, with a bit of pizazz.  The sling reverses to black and is made of cotton sateen.

You can get Sarah Palin’s Baby Pouch Sling, the Ingrid Hotslings from Along for the Ride ($58) or get this …

Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, many stores are donating a percentage of the profits on certain items to breast cancer charities. Check out Mamanista’s Breast Cancer Shopping Guide for our roundup of the best pink ribbon stores and products.
Want a chance to win a Mini Piggy from Tough Cookies, Pink Logo Body Cream from Melange Apothecary or Lounge Socks by Karen Neuburger?
This contest is for subscribers only. To enter, first subscribe to Mamanista’s daily newsletter or monthly newsletter by October 31, 2008 (if you are already subscribed, you are set). …

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We’re asking you to join the fight against breast cancer by volunteering, donating or simply by shopping.
We love when we can shop for a cause, so here are some ideas for items that will support breast cancer research and foundations.
Fabulous Bags- Including the Ju-Ju-Be Be Right Back: eBags donates 10% of the retail sales price of any pink product  to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Just look for the pink ribbon next to the product name. I want the Ju-Ju-Be Be Right Back …