Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.8, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # The Guiding Star Project No woman should every fear pregnancy. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://guidingstarproject.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Real Girl Power](https://guidingstarproject.com/real-girl-power/) - Nearly a year ago, I flew up to Minnesota to attend the Cycle Show instructor certification course offered by Guiding Star Project. This was an intense three-day training with a group of women who came from all different parts of the country and various walks of life; but each one of us had one thing - [From the Inside Out: A Former Planned Parenthood Director Speaks Out on What Women Deserve](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-truth-about-abortion-pill-care/) - From the Inside Out: A Former Planned Parenthood Director Speaks Out on What Women DeserveIn a recent Guiding Star webcast, Leah A. Jacobson, sat down with Mayra Rodriguez, a former Planned Parenthood director, to expose the unsettling realities of what passes as “women’s healthcare” in America—and why the narrative must change. With over 16 years - [A Weekend of Wonder: How Guiding Star Is Transforming Fertility Awareness and Puberty Education in the U.S.](https://guidingstarproject.com/weekend-of-wonder/) - Earlier this April, I had the incredible privilege of participating in the Guiding Star Cycle Show Instructor Training held at Eagan Hills Alliance Church in Minnesota. Over the course of three enriching days, five women—including myself—were trained to bring the Cycle Show to new regions across the U.S., making our class the fifth trained group - [Make Your Period Better](https://guidingstarproject.com/make-your-period-better/) - Do you dread the start of your period–the cramps, bloating, exhaustion, and irritability? Mild premenstrual symptoms such as these are common, but there is good news. You have the power to make your period better! Part of Guiding Star's work is to empower women to be the masters of their own hormones by educating them - [This is the year of self-less love.](https://guidingstarproject.com/this-is-the-year-of-self-less-love-2/) - Under Florida’s new 15-week abortion law, exceptions are allowed for fetal abnormalities that are discovered after 15 weeks. In such cases, two doctors must sign off saying the baby will die shortly after birth before an abortion can happen. This is unfortunate for babies like our son Samuel. Samuel was born with right-hypoplastic heart syndrome - [The Whole Story of Natural Fertility](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-whole-story-of-natural-fertility/) - Do you remember your middle school or high school reproductive health class? When I think back to my education about periods and "How babies are made" my memories are brief. I can remember short parts of videos or awkward condom demonstrations and disgusting pictures of STDs. Does this sound familiar to you? Last month, my 9-year-old daughter - [All About Endometriosis Awareness Month ](https://guidingstarproject.com/all-about-endometriosis-awareness-month/) - All About Endometriosis Awareness Month Millions of women suffer in silence every year from a disease called endometriosis. Most of the time, it goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years until it’s accurately treated for what it is. Women with this disease might “look healthy” from the outside, and they become quite skilled in covering well - [Endometriosis: An Invisible Illness](https://guidingstarproject.com/endometriosis-an-invisible-illness-2/) - Endometriosis is a rather mysterious condition that causes endometrial tissue (uterine lining) to grow outside of a woman’s uterus. These painful endometrial lesions respond to a woman’s hormonal cycles, growing and then shedding and then growing again. It’s surprisingly common, affecting around 10% of women worldwide. The symptoms can vary greatly in presentation and severity, - [The Cost of Being a Working Parent](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-cost-of-being-a-working-parent-2/) - THE COST OF BEING A WORKING PARENT It has been a long week—as she smells the aroma of coffee beginning to drift through the air and looks at the baby snuggled up beside her that has finally fallen asleep after a night of waking, shushing, and rocking. She wanders out of bed in a fog - [10 Fast Facts About the Guiding Star Project ](https://guidingstarproject.com/10-fast-facts-about-the-guiding-star-project/) - 10 Fast Facts About the Guiding Star Project For a decade, The Guiding Star Project has been serving women and families from our affiliate centers with whole-person care. Our branding and organization may have changed and grown over the years, but our mission has always been the same. We seek to be the “new norm” - [A Different Kind of New Year's Resolution](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-different-kind-of-new-years-resolution-3/) - The new year is here and with it the many reduced gym and fitness memberships, the weight-loss pill advertisements, and the numerous articles addressed to getting fit in magazines, blogs, and morning shows. Of course, being healthy is important, but it seems often the emphasis is less about respecting one’s body and more about hounding women - [5 Ways Women Can Improve Their Health This Year](https://guidingstarproject.com/5-ways-women-can-improve-their-health-this-year/) - 5 Ways Women Can Improve Their Health This Year We’re well into the new year of 2021 by now, which means maybe you’ve been trying out some new resolutions. If one of your goals for this year is to improve your health, the new year is the perfect time to work to change habits, resolve - [Our Selfie Culture Needs Fertility Awareness](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-selfie-culture-needs-fertility-awareness-2/) - Our Selfie Culture What would you think if you found out one of your friends spends five hours a week staring at her face? If you are a woman between the ages of 16 and 25, that friend is probably you. Thank you, selfie culture. Collectively, our selfie culture devotes millions of hours to taking - [A Survey of Fertility Awareness Methods](https://guidingstarproject.com/survey-fertility-awareness/) - A Survey of Fertility Awareness Methods At the Guiding Star Project, we believe real healthcare empowers women with the knowledge of their fertility. Fertility should be respected and understood, not treated as an illness. But too often, women are simply given contraception with no invitation to learn about the way their bodies function and no - [The Woman Behind Adoption](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-woman-behind-adoption-2/) - It seems as though whenever someone talks about adoption it comes with a negative stigma attached: “My sister in law’s brother adopted and the baby was taken from them when the parents changed their mind!” “My coworkers son was adopted, and the birth parents came back after 3 years and wanted him back!” "My - [6 Ways Every Family Can Celebrate National Adoption Month](https://guidingstarproject.com/6-ways-every-family-can-celebrate-national-adoption-month/) - November is National Adoption Month! It is a month dedicated to celebrating and building awareness of the beauty of adoption. And it’s a time to celebrate families that have grown through adoption. In addition, National Adoption Month focuses on raising awareness of the thousands of children across the country who are currently in foster care, - [How to Support a Loved One After a Miscarriage or Infant Loss](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-support-loved-one-miscarriage-infant-loss/) - How to Support a Loved One After a Miscarriage or Infant Loss October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. For a parent to lose a baby is devastating enough. But the silence from society in general and oftentimes insensitive comments that people make to bereaved parents after a miscarriage or infant loss makes the suffering even - [Supporting Our Sisters: Encouragement Over Condemnation](https://guidingstarproject.com/supporting-our-sisters-encouragement-over-condemnation/) - Supporting Our Sisters: Encouragement Over Condemnation Men have known for ages about the power of a woman's words -- how their wives can completely demoralize their efforts with a simple raise of the eyebrows and a quick, "Really, dear?" We women instinctively understand how we can use words to manipulate and hurt others if we - ["Cuties" - When A Lesson Goes Awry](https://guidingstarproject.com/cuties-when-a-lesson-goes-awry/) - Media outlets were abuzz with Netflix’s recent promotion of the French film “Cuties” directed by Maïmouna Doucouré. Cries of “child pornography” were coming from all sides, while #cancelnetflix became the number one trending topic on Twitter, causing Netflix to lose a reported $9 billion. In response to this backlash, Doucouré claims that she wrote the - [A Whole-Person Approach to Healing from Endometriosis](https://guidingstarproject.com/whole-person-approach-healing-endometriosis/) - Endometriosis. It’s a big word for a relatively invisible disease that dramatically impacts the lives of 1 in 10 women. Scientifically and clinically speaking, endometriosis is a disease where the tissue that lines the uterus implants elsewhere in the body. This endometrial tissue grows as hormones shift, cycle after cycle. Since this tissue is outside - [What You Never Learned About Your Period](https://guidingstarproject.com/what-you-never-learned-about-your-period/) - What You Never Learned About Your Period and wish you would have known a long time ago! By Jamie Rathjen, M.A., C.F.C.P “Congratulations!” my mom exclaimed as I sheepishly told her that I had just gotten my period. My face flushed and I tried to signal to my mother through telepathy for her to keep - [10 Tips To Breastfeeding Success](https://guidingstarproject.com/10-tips-to-breastfeeding-success/) - Lactilou’s Breastfeeding Tips Preparing to Breastfeed Your Baby: What is the best way to ensure a positive breastfeeding experience? By Carol Frient Many first time mothers have decided to breastfeed, but may wonder "what's the big deal? I'll put the baby on and all will be fine.” Sometimes we as mothers are surprised that - [Women Shouldn't Have To Birth Alone](https://guidingstarproject.com/women-shouldnt-have-to-birth-alone/) - Doulas And Birthing Partners Are Being Banned From Hospital Birthing Rooms “The New York City hospital network New York-Presbyterian on Monday instituted one of the most restrictive visitor policies in the country for women giving birth, barring spouses, partners and other family members or outside support people, such as doulas, from the delivery room — - [The Guiding Star Project Announces Two New Affiliate Locations](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-guiding-star-project-announces-two-new-affiliate-locations/) - For Immediate Release: The Guiding Star Project To Open Two New Affiliate Locations This Spring March 10, 2020 (Ironton, MN)- Leah Jacobson, Founder and CEO of The Guiding Star Project, proudly announces the upcoming opening of Guiding Star At the Shores (New Jersey) and Guiding Star Marshalltown (Iowa), adding to a national network of - [Have You Heard Of Sex Week?](https://guidingstarproject.com/have-you-heard-of-sex-week/) - This week, many college campuses are holding a “Sex Week” following Valentine’s Day, promoting “sexual health awareness and comprehensive sex education.” Here are some of the hosted workshops and events found at Harvard: “Hit Me Baby One More Time: BDSM in the Dorm Room” “Sexual Fetishes A-Z” “One is Not Enough: Open Relationships, Non-Monogamy and - [Michelle Williams; the Connection Between Male Domination and Abortion](https://guidingstarproject.com/michelle-williams-the-connection-between-male-domination-and-abortion/) - Over the weekend, our country witnessed a surprisingly personal Golden Globes acceptance speech given by 39-year-old actress, Michelle Williams. In her two and a half minute carefully scripted speech she took a direct path to link her success as an actress with her right to choose an abortion. She said, “I’m grateful for the acknowledgment - [A Picture Perfect Christmas](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-picture-perfect-christmas/) - Every Hallmark movie and half of the blogs out there say that now that you’re married and have a baby, this is going to be the perfect Christmas!! You can be the mom who has it all! A spotless, grand home, decorated with sophistication and elegance (yes please). A happy and healthy baby, and a - [How Will You Change the World?](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-will-you-change-the-world/) - My daughter just turned five and even at such a young age, she is constantly getting asked what she wants to be when she grows up. She gives typical, adorable child responses like, a firefighting ballerina, or a nurse to help daddy at the hospital! But I've been thinking lately how maybe we focus on - [Remembering Mom](https://guidingstarproject.com/remembering-mom/) - In the summer of 2018, I lost my mother in law to health complications after a lengthy battle with cancer. My husband’s mom was just 40 years old when she received a diagnosis of stage four breast cancer in 2000. Hardship and suffering were not unfamiliar to her when she received her diagnosis. She was - [The Twisted Narrative: Does Pro-Woman Mean Anti-Man?](https://guidingstarproject.com/pro-woman-does-not-mean-anti-man/) - In 1969, a group of women in New York City rallied together to see how they could change the world as leaders of the feminist movement. Here is a their litany from this meeting: “Why are we here today? the chairwoman asked. “To make revolution,” they answered. “What kind of revolution?” she replied. “The Cultural - [What Every College Campus Needs: Women's Health Week](https://guidingstarproject.com/what-every-college-campus-needs-womens-health-week/) - “Why would you want to get your period? Why would you want to be pregnant? Here’s a pill to take care of that. Suppress your fertility!” This about sums up the messages that women hear about their bodies. Why is it that something so integral to who we are; our natural biology and unique abilities - [Comprehensive Sexual Education: What Parents Need to Know Starting in Kindergarten](https://guidingstarproject.com/comprehensive-sexual-education-what-parents-need-to-know-starting-in-kindergarten/) - As summer ended, I prepared to send my first child off to kindergarten. A mix of excitement and anxious thoughts flooded my mind. My husband and I went over every detail of that big first day with our daughter and what it might be like. We talked with excitement to her about how much fun - [Announcing Pregnancy in a Culture of Loss](https://guidingstarproject.com/announcing-pregnancy-in-a-culture-of-loss/) - October in the Midwest brings cooler weather, football, and some of the most beautiful drives through fire-tinged foliage I’ve ever seen. It also brings the National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month. I am one of a very small minority of women in my group of friends who has not experienced pregnancy or infant loss. - [Expand Your Preconceived Notions About Family Size](https://guidingstarproject.com/be-not-afraid-expand-your-preconceived-notions-about-family-size/) - Earlier this summer, we had a fantastic birthday party for our son, who turned four. It was a beautifully sunny day, with no humidity and plenty of cake, cousins, and friends with whom to share it. As the evening approached, we debated as to whether to take our sugared-up, sunshine-filled kids to Mass that night - [Is Femaleness a Defect?](https://guidingstarproject.com/is-femaleness-a-defect/) - In many places, in many cultures, and in many times, femaleness has been treated as inferior to maleness. Even in our own culture, where many people believe that women have made so much progress toward equality, many women have to work hard to see themselves with the dignity and care with which we were created. - [My Unexpected Journey to becoming a FABM Instructor](https://guidingstarproject.com/my-unexpected-journey-to-becoming-a-fabm-instructor/) - Prior to my engagement, I never gave much thought to contraception—I had no reason to. Most of my married friends were on some form of hormonal birth control, and once my now-husband and I began discussing our option for avoiding pregnancy, I just assumed I’d probably start taking the birth control pill as well. It - [Stop Settling](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-simple-window-into-our-overall-health/) - This past year I traveled to different middle schools and high schools speaking about human dignity, healthy relationships, and sexual integrity. Naturally, when I had a room with only girls the topic of periods would come up. I was blown away by how many young girls knew nothing about their own fertility. All they knew - [The Biggest Attack Waged Against Women](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-biggest-attack-waged-against-women/) - Why is there such a culture of death in our world today? I could list a whole list of different reasons why, but today I want to keep it simple. Very simple. It all comes down to one tragic fact: Many people today are failing to recognize the splendor of every human person. This - [An Unplanned Response](https://guidingstarproject.com/an-unplanned-response/) - Note: Please use caution if you are sensitive to pictures of babies who have been delivered too early. This post contains such photos. Three years ago, this May, I experienced a second trimester loss of my monoamniotic (MoMo) twin sons. Before this, simply contemplating that 1 in 4 pregnancies ends in miscarriage was enough to - [The Art of a Successful Failure](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-art-of-a-successful-failure/) - It was the last day of my first job. I packed a few pictures, some files and a dying houseplant in copy paper box. I had decided to leave my dream job just a few weeks shy of a year. As I looked around my office, I realized what I thought was a dream come - [The Power of Paying Attention](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-power-of-paying-attention/) - If you meet me in real life, it doesn’t take long for the conversation to turn to cycle charting. Observing and charting my body’s physical signs of fertility has given me the ability to know day by day if I’m in my fertile window or not. This allows me to plan my family without the - [Do the Next Thing](https://guidingstarproject.com/do-the-next-thing/) - I tried to see past the nurses and the doctor in the delivery room. I just wanted one glimpse of him. My sweet baby boy was finally here. After a preterm labor scare and 7 weeks on bedrest, we had finally made it. I heard his first cry and my arms longed to hold him. - [The Art of Asking for Help](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-art-of-asking-for-help/) - I’m embarrassed to admit that I have a hard time asking for help. I’ve somehow developed a subconscious personal policy to minimize how much I allow others to contribute to my daily needs. I guess I figure since I’m blessed enough to be able to stay home with my children, I need to buck-up-buttercup and - [Greenwashing and the Pill](https://guidingstarproject.com/greenwashing-and-the-pill/) - I was raised on a healthy diet of coca-cola, lays potato chips, and hamburger helper. Eating clean, and having an awareness about products that I use and ingest, wasn’t something that I was brought up worrying about, or even considering. When I made the switch to a more sustainable lifestyle, even though I lived in - [Endometriosis: An Invisible Illness](https://guidingstarproject.com/endometriosis-an-invisible-illness/) - Endometriosis is a rather mysterious condition that causes endometrial tissue (uterine lining) to grow outside of a woman’s uterus. These painful endometrial lesions respond to a woman’s hormonal cycles, growing and then shedding and then growing again. It’s surprisingly common, affecting around 10% of women worldwide. The symptoms can vary greatly in presentation and severity, - [How Springtime and an Extra Chromosome Changed Me](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-springtime-and-an-extra-chromosome-changed-me/) - For as long as I can remember, spring has been my favorite season. So much excitement fills the air when we survive another Minnesota winter; children and teachers alike can see there is an end to the school year, families begin planning summer vacations, Easter baskets and egg hunts are bountiful, and increasing sunlight means - [How to Live a Lasting Legacy](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-to-live-a-lasting-legacy/) - The word history signifies the entirety of past events that are associated with someone or something. As women, sisters, mothers, daughters, and friends we are writing history on the pages of our memoir each and every day. The last chapter of my life can be summed up by one word: transition. My husband and I - [Is it Time to Bring Back "Homemaker?"](https://guidingstarproject.com/is-it-time-to-bring-back-homemaker/) - “So you’re just a homemaker now?” my grandmother asked as we watched the cousins play together during a summer visit to my hometown. I wasn’t sure how to respond. The term “homemaker” seems so outdated. And “just a homemaker?” What does that even mean? I’ve never thought of myself that way, although technically, I suppose - [The real impact of children at work](https://guidingstarproject.com/real-impact-children-work/) - I recently returned to work after my maternity leave with my second child. I was able to spend eleven insanely stressful and beautifully crazy weeks at home with my newborn and newly-turned three-year-old. When discussing my return to work while I was still pregnant, I approached my boss with the idea of a flex schedule - [The Economy of Sex: Hugh Hefner, Harvey Weinstein, and the Marriage of Left-Right Liberalisms](https://guidingstarproject.com/economy-sex-hugh-hefner-harvey-weinstein-marriage-left-right-liberalisms/) - The death of Playboy mogul Hugh Hefner in September drew accolades as well as critiques from, shall we say, some rather strange bedfellows. Some on the left praised his support for civil rights (that is, he objectified black women too) and his more infamous role in the sexual revolution. From the right, an editorial in The Federalist bizarrely misnamed his sense of personal entitlement as joie de vivre - [The Cost of Being a Working Parent](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-cost-of-being-a-working-parent/) - It has been a long week—as she smells the aroma of coffee beginning to drift through the air and looks at the baby snuggled up beside her that has finally fallen asleep after a night of waking, shushing, and rocking. She wanders out of bed in a fog of sleep deprivation and slaps on some - [Telling "My Abortion Story"](https://guidingstarproject.com/telling-my-abortion-story/) - All too often, stories about engaging with “the other side” of the abortion debate quickly turn ugly and presumptive of others. I hope this story will be different, and am willing to risk ridicule for sharing it because I hope it will encourage others to step out of their comfort zones. This past weekend, I - [Finding New Feminism](https://guidingstarproject.com/finding-new-feminism/) - “What are you? A feminist?” My friend’s face was twisted a bit – half in confusion, half in thinly veiled disgust. He was shocked, you see. He had thought that I was a fairly conservative, traditional, “chill” woman. But here I was, standing before him, trying not to bristle too much at the sexist turn - [Why victims don't speak](https://guidingstarproject.com/why-victims-dont-speak/) - The recent news and media frenzy regarding the predatory behavior of Harvey Weinstein and other prominent Hollywood figures leaves many of us with complicated emotions. Anger, disbelief, betrayal, and triggered memories of our own sexual trauma may surface as we read accounts of woman after woman being demeaned, attacked, assaulted, and violated. These things should - [Contraceptive Implants and the Illusion of Control](https://guidingstarproject.com/contraceptive-implants-and-the-illusion-of-control/) - Nexplanon, an artificial birth control arm implant, launched a recent ad campaign using the slogan “Armor Up.” It shows pictures of attractive young women with battle ready faces, flexing one bicep while pointing to the implant. The ad reads: “Pregnancy protection for up to 3 years. Over 99% effective. Your life. Your way.” This ad - [All Mothers Need Help](https://guidingstarproject.com/all-mothers-need-help/) - As a young mom, I have found support and virtual camaraderie in several Facebook groups. I've made connections with women around the world who are in the same season of life: deep in the trenches of mothering young children. I didn’t have this support group when I first became a mom, but as the mother of - [Intimate Partner Violence is No Hollywood Movie](https://guidingstarproject.com/intimate-partner-violence-is-no-hollywood-movie/) - Her story sounded like something out of a Hollywood movie. I was gowned up in the trauma room of my Emergency Department, assisting in the resuscitation of our latest gunshot wound victim. Emergency Medical Services told us Jane Doe's story: She and her boyfriend had gotten into a fight outside her car. He pulled a - [Married Young and Unafraid](https://guidingstarproject.com/married-young-and-unafraid/) - In mainstream culture today, getting married young is practically an anomaly. According to a study based on census data by the Pew Research Center, the average age for adults to get married is now 27 years old for women and 29 years old for men, which is up from 20 and 23 in 1960, respectively. - ["Informed" Consent?](https://guidingstarproject.com/informed-consent/) - A smart phone app that is garnering more media attention, due to its expanding market, is Nurx. The app allows women to order and obtain contraceptives through the app, which are then delivered right to their door. Women can pick a contraceptive of their choosing (or get a doctor’s recommendation), then answer a “few health - [Tackling the Topic of NFP with a Potential Partner](https://guidingstarproject.com/tackling-the-topic-of-nfp-with-a-potential-partner/) - A man is standing before you, gazing into your eyes. He’s beginning to fall in love with you and you with him. He thinks he knows you well enough to be ready to make the jump. He’s asking you for commitment. But there’s just one little thing you might not have mentioned to him yet… - [Meeting Stephen](https://guidingstarproject.com/meeting-stephen/) - "Hi! I'm Stephen! And this is my mom. And this is my dad!" That's how I meet people these days, through the outgoing love of my son Stephen. It is delightful. Awkward at times (picture total strangers shaking hands at the behest of this super friendly guy) but enchanting. That's our Stephen. When I became pregnant in my - [Navigating Diet Restrictions with Grace](https://guidingstarproject.com/navigating-diet-restrictions-with-grace/) - Walking through the grocery store these days, there are a myriad of labels on food that wouldn’t have been there twenty years ago. Gluten free, dairy free, low carb, paleo, vegan… these are just a few of the many designations I’ve seen while shopping. Many restaurants are also becoming more accommodating, either having separate - [High Risk Pregnancy in the Internet Age](https://guidingstarproject.com/high-risk-pregnancy-in-the-internet-age/) - My husband and I were cautiously excited when those two pink lines showed up. I had experienced a very early miscarriage a few months earlier and was afraid of the same thing happening again. As those first weeks ticked by though, everything was fine. I made it to almost seven weeks, and then the bleeding - [Charlottesville: A Call to Examine Ourselves](https://guidingstarproject.com/charlottesville-a-call-to-examine-ourselves/) - In episode 7 of the first season of the beloved political drama television The West Wing, White House Communications Director Toby Ziegler meets with a representative of Indonesia named Mr. Bambang at a state dinner to ask for the favor of releasing Toby’s friend who is a political prisoner there. The main characters have struggled - [Healing Birth: Midwifery and a Rainbow Baby](https://guidingstarproject.com/healing-birth-midwifery-and-a-rainbow-baby/) - I chose midwifery for the birth of my son because I believe in the intricate design of the female body and its ability to birth unassisted and in an unaltered physical and mental state. Selecting a care team for labor and delivery is not to be taken lightly—according to the most recent data published by - [Can you use NFP while breastfeeding?](https://guidingstarproject.com/can-you-use-nfp-while-breastfeeding/) - So you’ve made it through the first few weeks with your new baby at home and now it’s time for your six-week follow-up appointment. You’ll finally be cleared to resume relations with your partner (or maybe the idea of anything going on down there is still terrifying). Regardless of how you're feeling about resuming your - [More Than Our Sexuality](https://guidingstarproject.com/more-than-our-sexuality/) - In the Summer of 2016, I read – among other things – what turned out to be one of the most disappointing books I’ve invested time in. My copy of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale has been collecting dust under my bed for about a year now, but within the past six months, the - [Phone-Based Apps: A 21st Century Facelift for FABMs](https://guidingstarproject.com/phone-based-apps-a-21st-century-facelift-for-fabms/) - I’ll never forget their conversation on that car ride home. I was driving back from a nationally recognized nursing research conference with graduate nursing students in my research group. I was horribly intimidated by their knowledge of research methods and how they could tear apart a study in minutes. They knew so much more about - [Fertility Awareness as a Path to Health](https://guidingstarproject.com/fertility-awareness-as-a-path-to-health/) - This week, July 23-27th, we celebrate Natural Family Planning (NFP) Awareness Week. As a new face to the Guiding Star Project blogging team, I thought it would be fitting to share how my passion for the work of GSP originated with my own journey to health through learning about my body by studying NFP and - [An Open Letter to Melinda Gates](https://guidingstarproject.com/an-open-letter-to-melinda-gates/) - The timing of your recent article, “Keeping Our Promise to 120 Million Women and Girls,” and the Global Family Planning Summit in London could not be better in light of the upcoming Natural Family Planning (NFP) Awareness Week. We are in agreement that, “the conversation around contraceptives is one of the most important conversations the - [We Think Teens Deserve Better: A Response to Teen Vogue](https://guidingstarproject.com/we-think-teens-deserve-better-a-response-to-teen-vogue/) - Recently, the online publication of Teen Vogue published an article titled, "Anal Sex: What You Need to Know - How to do it the Right Way." This sensational, poorly researched and badly written article has garnered quite a bit of attention and a myriad of responses that run the gamut from moms' playgroups to Fox News - [The Alternative Care That Women Need](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-alternative-care-that-women-need/) - Last year I was treated for endometriosis, which is a disease that affects more than 5.5 million women in North America. However, it took seven years of doctor visits before I was actually diagnosed—which, believe it or not, is shorter than the national average of ten years. Why does it take so many years of - [4 Ways to Stay in Love this Summer](https://guidingstarproject.com/4-ways-to-stay-in-love-this-summer/) - Last night at quarter after nine in the evening, there was still light outside my window. As usual, summer has fully arrived almost without me realizing it! I don’t know about you, but this summer is a particularly busy season for my family. We’re juggling selling one house, buying another, moving, keeping up with growing - [Muddling through Modesty](https://guidingstarproject.com/muddling-through-modesty/) - It happens every year around this time without fail. The various mothering groups that I belong to inevitably begin the modesty discussion and every year I cringe and ask myself if I really want to get involved...again. I used to be very opinionated about modesty, but as I've gotten more mature and more comfortable with - [Not Knowing What to Do: A Husband's Perspective on Postpartum Depression](https://guidingstarproject.com/not-knowing-what-to-do-a-husbands-perspective-on-postpartum-depression-2/) - Before you read this, you should read my wife, Abby’s articles about postpartum depression. Most of what I write is a response to what she has written about her struggle with PPD: WALKING THROUGH DARKNESS: MY JOURNEY INTO POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION PART I WALKING THROUGH DARKNESS: MY JOURNEY INTO POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION PART II THE BEGINNING It - [Walking through Darkness: My Journey with Postpartum Depression, Part II](https://guidingstarproject.com/walking-through-darkness-my-journey-with-postpartum-depression-part-ii/) - As we continue our series on postpartum depression, we bring you the second part of the story from Guiding Star Project board member and pro-life speaker and advocate, Abby Johnson, who shares her experience of this illness. If you missed the first post, you can find it here: https://theguidingstarproject.com/walking-through-darkness-my-journey-into-post-partum-depression-part-i/ I got back in and drove home. - [Walking through Darkness: My Journey with Postpartum Depression, Part I](https://guidingstarproject.com/6912-2/) - In honor of Maternal Depression Awareness month, we are re-publishing Abby Johnson's series on postpartum depression. Abby is a Guiding Star Project board member and pro-life speaker and advocate and she shares her journey with postpartum depression in this powerful series. The day I found out I was pregnant with Grace, I don’t remember being happy. I - [Giving Women More Choices: An Introduction to Executive Director Jamie Rathjen and Guiding Star Cedar Valley](https://guidingstarproject.com/giving-women-actual-choices-an-introduction-to-executive-director-jamie-rathjen-and-guiding-star-cedar-valley/) - photo credit: Waterloo Courier I recently had the privilege to interview Jamie Rathjen, the Executive Director of Guiding Star Cedar Valley. I was so encouraged by her vision, insight, and desire for true societal change. Jamie, who is trained in the Creighton model of fertility charting and holds a Masters degree in Community Health Education, first - [Are You His Real Mom?](https://guidingstarproject.com/are-you-his-real-mom/) - "Are you his real mom?" I remember looking around thinking, "who is this person talking to?" I continue changing my little man’s diaper in the restaurant bathroom. I talk to him as he is giggling and rolling from one side to another. I hear it again; “Are you his real mom?” A bit confused, I - [Is Your Birth Control Sustainable?](https://guidingstarproject.com/is-your-birth-control-sustainable/) - Spring is in full swing here in the Midwest. I can hardly believe it's already April 22nd, Earth Day! First established in 1970, Earth Day was designed to promote awareness of environmental issues and to celebrate our precious natural resources. It is a day that reminds us of the importance of conservation, personal responsibility, and practicing sustainability. - [NFP is Just Too Hard](https://guidingstarproject.com/nfp-is-just-too-hard/) - Sometimes Natural Family Planning (“NFP”) is just too hard. Maybe you’re avoiding pregnancy and your fertile time aligns with your wedding anniversary (or worse, your wedding itself…). Maybe you’re breastfeeding and your postpartum cycles are so confusing that you have to switch methods when you don’t even have enough energy to take a shower. Or - [Cutting the Cord with my Doctor: Exploring Alternative Methods of Care](https://guidingstarproject.com/cutting-the-cord-with-my-doctor-exploring-alternative-methods-of-care/) - The twenty first century woman has access to unlimited information at the swipe of a finger. This creates an interesting paradox in no matter what phase of your motherhood journey you find yourself—opinions flow freely and are not often kind. The information management struggle is so real whether preparing for the birth of a child, - [What's One More](https://guidingstarproject.com/whats-one-more/) - When we started the foster care process a few years ago, I remember asking myself, "Can we really do this? Are we ready to become a family of 5? Even if it is only temporary can we do this?" I had mounds of paperwork next to me that both my husband and I needed to fill - [A Day Without Women is Good for No One Because #WomenWork](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-day-without-women-is-good-for-no-one-because-womenwork/) - Tomorrow March 8th, 2017 is the "Day Without Women," a day organized by various grassroots and semi-political groups encouraging all women to "not show up" in order to make a point about the value of women in the world. Women are encouraged to stay home from work, to not shop, and to not engage in - [Pairing Holistic Care with Social Justice: An Introduction to Executive Director Ginny Cronin and Wakota Guiding Star Center](https://guidingstarproject.com/pairing-holistic-care-with-social-justice-an-introduction-to-executive-director-ginny-cronin-and-wakota-guiding-star-center/) - Wakota - a Guiding Star Center, originally known as Wakota Life-Care Center, is situated on a bustling corner of Butler Ave E and S Robert Street in St. Paul Minnesota. Virginia (Ginny) Cronin, the Executive Director, often passed the time in traffic at this intersection wondering about what had filled the space behind the walls - [Period positivity: moving beyond self-empowerment](https://guidingstarproject.com/period-positivity-moving-beyond-self-empowerment/) - Period positivity can be defined as the practice of accepting menstruation as a normal and healthy process. But what is it for? Why be 'period positive?' In some parts of the world, where girls are literally quitting school because of a lack of menstrual care products, or find themselves ostracized from daily life because of - [Reaching Across the Aisle](https://guidingstarproject.com/reaching-across-the-aisle/) - I've heard quite a few people say that this political season has been the most "divisive in history." Now, considering that I am in my late 30s, I am sure there is a certain amount of hyperbole in that statement, but I get what they are saying. These days it's hard not to see - [Introducing Ana Hidalgo Stooks: The Flagship Leader of Our Flagship Center](https://guidingstarproject.com/introducing-ana-hidalgo-stooks-the-flagship-leader-of-our-flagship-center/) - This is the first post in a series we will be sharing about the various Guiding Star Centers. We hope that these pieces will shine a light on the incredible work the Guiding Star Project is doing across our country and illustrate our revolutionary vision for the future of women’s healthcare. Ana Hidalgo Stooks - [A Tale of Two Marches](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-tale-of-two-marches/) - In just a few days thousands (possibly hundreds of thousands!) of women will converge on Washington D.C. to commemorate the Presidential Inauguration of Donald Trump with a protest. This “Women’s March” started out sounding like such a great idea! After the election, so many of us wanted a place for women to come together in - [Opting Out: The Danger of a False Positive](https://guidingstarproject.com/opting-out-the-danger-of-a-false-positive/) - You are in a state of pregnancy bliss expecting a beautiful baby. You make an appointment with your provider to confirm your joyful news (as if the morning sickness and general desire to disconnect from humanity into a state of baby growing hibernation are not confirmation enough). At your first appointment, you are bombarded with - [What Not To Say](https://guidingstarproject.com/what-not-to-say/) - My husband and I have been shocked by some of the things people have said to us when they learn that we adopted our children. Our family is now a multi racial family, so the fact that we have adopted is no secret to strangers on the street. Most people's comments are simple, sweet and - [I stopped wearing deodorant and nobody died](https://guidingstarproject.com/i-stopped-wearing-deodorant-and-nobody-died/) - Lately I’ve been pursuing a healthier and more eco-friendly lifestyle. I’ve changed a lot about the way I eat, the products I use, and the purchases I make. But the hardest thing for me to let go of has been conventional deodorant. Buying organic food is one thing, but quitting deodorant? It seemed a bit - [When Grief Hits the Holidays](https://guidingstarproject.com/when-grief-hits-the-holidays/) - Five years ago, on Black Friday, my husband woke me with news that changed my world forever. My mother, at age 59, died in the night. She suffered a massive heart attack in her sleep, a diagnosis that still fills me with anxiety and dread when Thanksgiving comes around. See, for all intents and purposes, - [Don't Call Me Hormonal](https://guidingstarproject.com/dont-call-me-hormonal/) - I think it's high time we stopped saying 'hormonal' like it's a swear word. You know what I'm talking about. We use it synonymously with words like 'crabby' and 'irritable.' We use it as an insult, a write-off, an excuse, a complaint. We need to stop this. Right now. Do we hear ourselves? Do we - [Health Insurance Nightmares: The Birth Control Edition](https://guidingstarproject.com/health-insurance-nightmares-the-birth-control-edition/) - It was one of those mornings. I had already been on the phone for about 2 hours, periodically shouting “representative!” at the automated messaging service that couldn’t hear me and being transferred between so many people I couldn’t keep track. There’s nothing like the feeling that wells up inside you as you listen to static - [An Open Letter to My Son's Birthmom](https://guidingstarproject.com/an-open-letter-to-my-sons-birthmom/) - Dear First Mommy, He has called you that for as long as I can remember. His face always has that special smile when he says that “First Mommy.” Usually he says it when he has questions about you or when he wonders what you are doing. I can tell he thinks about you often. As - [Should a Birth Mom Breastfeed or Pump Before Placement?](https://guidingstarproject.com/should-a-birth-mom-breastfeed-or-pump-before-placement/) - As the adoption world becomes more open, so has the viewpoint on breast milk during and after the hospital stay. More people are learning that breastfeeding, when possible, provides the best nutrition for babies. Breastmilk has the perfect composition of healthy fats, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great boost to a baby's immunity - [4 Birth Mothers Share Their Breastfeeding/Pumping Stories](https://guidingstarproject.com/4-birth-mothers-share-their-breastfeedingpumping-stories/) - Each adoption is unique, and the world of adoption is ever-evolving. Today, many birth mothers are choosing to begin their adoption journey by breastfeeding or pumping their breastmilk. I'd like to introduce you to four such women: Christina, Breanna, Alyssa, and Emm. I had the privilege of asking each of them 12 questions pertaining to their reasons for - [No Still Means No](https://guidingstarproject.com/no-still-means-no/) - October is filled with a veritable rainbow of awareness causes, including one that is particularly near and dear to my heart: Domestic Violence Awareness. In past years, I have written about domestic violence as it relates to pregnancy and support for survivors. This year, I would like to take the opportunity to discuss how sexual violence can play a - [A Story of Life](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-story-of-life/) - Prior to our first ultrasound at 10 weeks, I told my mom and my husband that I was having twins. I just had a feeling, call it a mother’s intuition—call it divine preparation, I just knew. It was the same feeling that had overwhelmed me two weeks earlier when I had tossed that negative home - [The Truth About Late Term Abortion](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-truth-about-late-term-abortion/) - I had a late-term abortion procedure. Although I'm a very private person, I can't keep silent any more. I'm mad that there are women who are not told the truth about abortion. I'm furious, actually. I saw firsthand the destruction caused by the lies about abortion. After my baby's heart stopped beating late in my - [In the name of chocolate](https://guidingstarproject.com/in-the-name-of-chocolate/) - I love the fall. Crisp cool weather. Changing leaves. Apple festivals. Halloween. Especially Halloween. I have great memories of dressing up, running from house to house collecting as much candy as I could possibly get, and dumping the candy into a huge pile when I got home to trade it until I got just the right - [Mommy Loves You, Mason](https://guidingstarproject.com/mommy-loves-you-mason/) - When I saw those two pink lines show up clear as day, I started squealing to my toddler that he was going to be a big brother (he was 16 months old and I don't think he cared quite as much as I did). My husband and I had decided to forgo charting when our - [Trauma, healing, and fertility awareness](https://guidingstarproject.com/trauma-healing-and-fertility-awareness/) - Trauma is something none of us likes to think about, but is tragically common. The road to healing can be long and winding, and as unique as the person walking it. The following is not a prescription for everyone, it is simply my story. As an abuse survivor, I have had a complicated relationship with - [Think before you Pinkwash](https://guidingstarproject.com/think-before-you-pinkwash/) - Ah. It's that time of year again. October: where all the world looks as if through rose-colored glasses. Everywhere you look, pink and pink ribbons will abound because October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. These days it seems as though nothing is immune from the pink; even the NFL gets in on it, with - [How to Make Peace with Change](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-to-make-peace-with-change/) - The end of the summer always makes me sad, but this year, it feels worse for some reason. I was more upset about my younger siblings returning to school than they were, and I've long since graduated! Even college football isn't quite doing the trick (Roll Tide). I’m not ready to welcome autumn, but it’s headed - [Not My Rapist's Son](https://guidingstarproject.com/not-my-rapists-son/) - Twelve years ago, I was held against my will for almost a year. I was abused, tortured, and raped.Before I was able to leave, I discovered I was pregnant. Society pushed me to get an abortion. Did I want the child of a rapist? What if the child turns out just like him? Did I want - [Not just in my head: The physical force of postpartum depression](https://guidingstarproject.com/not-just-in-my-head-the-physical-force-of-postpartum-depression/) - I've wanted to be a mom for as long as I can remember- and a stay-at-home mom at at that. My own mom had these little “School Days” books that she kept for my brother and me. One of the sections included the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Year - [Not knowing what to do: A husband's perspective on postpartum depression](https://guidingstarproject.com/not-knowing-what-to-do-a-husbands-perspective-on-postpartum-depression/) - Before you read this, you should read my wife, Abby's articles about postpartum depression. Most of what I write is a response to what she has written about her struggle with PPD: WALKING THROUGH DARKNESS: MY JOURNEY INTO POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION PART I WALKING THROUGH DARKNESS: MY JOURNEY INTO POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION PART II THE BEGINNING It - [Walking through darkness: My journey into postpartum depression Part II](https://guidingstarproject.com/walking-through-darkness-my-journey-into-post-partum-depression-part-ii/) - As we continue our series on postpartum depression, we bring you the second part of the story from Guiding Star Project board member and pro-life speaker and advocate, Abby Johnson, who shares her experience of this illness. If you missed the first post, you can find it here: http://theguidingstarproject.com/walking-through-darkness-my-journey-into-post-partum-depression-part-i/ I got back in and drove home. - [Walking through darkness: My journey into postpartum depression Part I](https://guidingstarproject.com/walking-through-darkness-my-journey-into-post-partum-depression-part-i/) - Today we begin a three-week series on postpartum depression. The first two posts are from Guiding Star Project board member and pro-life speaker and advocate, Abby Johnson, sharing her experience of going through this illness. The day I found out I was pregnant with Grace, I don’t remember being happy. I remember being terrified. Doug and - [The woman behind adoption](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-woman-behind-adoption/) - It seems as though whenever someone talks about adoption it comes with a negative stigma attached: “My sister in law’s brother adopted and the baby was taken from them when the parents changed their mind!” “My coworkers son was adopted, and the birth parents came back after 3 years and wanted him back!” "My college - [I have a friend who...](https://guidingstarproject.com/i-have-a-friend/) - I have a friend who called me not too long ago sobbing. She had just found out she was pregnant with her fifth child. She had no idea how she was going to “do this”. She was emotionally, physically and financially spent. She is not the type of woman someone would consider “abortion vulnerable.” She - [4 Things that happen when men learn fertility awareness](https://guidingstarproject.com/4-things-that-happen-when-men-learn-fertility-awareness/) - Men, unlike women, do not have ‘fertility cycles’. Their ability to produce offspring is not dependent on a particular physiological and hormonal environment that only occurs for a few days each month. Healthy men are always fertile, always biologically ready to become fathers. Women, on the other hand, have cyclical fertility. Besides meaning that the - [Why are MLMs such a Siren Song for moms?](https://guidingstarproject.com/why-are-mlms-such-a-siren-song-for-moms/) - Even if you didn't know they were called multi-level marketing (MLMs), you knew about them. They come in all shapes and sizes and have catchy names and inspiring stories: Thirty-One, The Pampered Chef, LuluRoe, Stella and Dot, Jamberry, and probably the most famous of all, "Avon, calling!" In multi-level marketing, also called network marketing, individuals - [Our Selfie Culture Needs Fertility Awareness](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-selfie-culture-needs-fertility-awareness/) - Our Selfie Culture What would you think if you found out one of your friends spends five hours a week staring at her face? If you are a woman between the ages of 16 and 25, that friend is probably you. Thank you, selfie culture. Collectively, our selfie culture devotes millions of hours to taking - [For Immediate Release:](https://guidingstarproject.com/for-immediate-release/) - The Guiding Star Project Announces Partnerships with several National Fertility Care & Natural Family Planning Organizations. The Guiding Star Project is excited to announce formal relationships with several prominent Fertility Care and Natural Family Planning organizations. SymptoPro Fertility Education from Northwest Family Services, headquartered in Portland, OR Couple to Couple League International, - [I Had to Break Up with My OB](https://guidingstarproject.com/i-had-to-break-up-with-my-ob/) - I had to break up with my OB. It wasn't her. Dr. J was absolutely fantastic. It was me. An ill-fated job transfer left me with the choice of flying to Houston for the delivery, or telling her we had to end things because long distance is difficult when it comes to obstetrics. All (most) - [Why A Woman's Experiences During Childbirth Matters](https://guidingstarproject.com/5856-2/) - This post has been reprinted with permission. You may view the original article here. There's a phrase that I've heard often when it comes to the topic of childbirth. Due to give birth again in a few weeks myself, I've heard it more often lately. I've heard it said to mothers of newborns, to pregnant - [10 of The Best Pregnancy Announcements of All Time](https://guidingstarproject.com/10-of-the-best-pregnancy-announcements-of-all-time/) - This was so much fun to put together. I laughed. I cried. I celebrated with strangers. There aren't too many things I enjoy in this world more than pregnancy announcements. My wife and I have never been able to do something fun like this. Mostly because we suck at keeping secrets and have no filter - [Do We Have to Tonight.....Again???](https://guidingstarproject.com/do-we-have-to-tonight-again/) - You’ve been trying to get pregnant for almost a year. You’ve read all of the books, taken ovulation tests, spent more money on pregnancy tests then you care to admit and yet you still aren’t pregnant. Why? What happened to just having sex and getting pregnant? It seems to work for millions of other couples - [Rules for coaching young girls](https://guidingstarproject.com/rules-for-coaching-young-girls/) - This year I took up coaching fastpitch softball for girls 10 years and under. I've been tasked with the job of organizing a group of (mostly inexperienced) girls into a team. I'm not even sure exactly how this happened. The organization my daughter had been playing for did not have enough players to form a - [Breastfeeding makes me sad.](https://guidingstarproject.com/breastfeeding-makes-me-sad/) - It is a perfect spring day. My toddler just went down for a nap, and my baby is hungry. I settle unto the sofa next to a steaming cup of herbal tea and a good book. A vague feeling of uneasiness briefly brushes my consciousness, but I ignore it. I snuggle in with my son, - [The Illusion of Control and the Erosion of a Village](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-illusion-of-control-and-the-erosion-of-a-village/) - Control. It’s something that we all strive for, something that once we think we have, we hold onto for dear life. “My rules, my way.” It’s only when something tragic happens that we realize how much of an illusion control is. The tragedy at the Cincinnati Zoo has brought this illusion of control to the - [For the Love of Laundry](https://guidingstarproject.com/for-the-love-of-laundry/) - I have been out of college now for 12 years, something that I still find hard to believe because so many of my memories from that time are so clear. I occasionally receive updates from my alma mater, and I recently received word that they had partnered with a locally based laundry service. Students are - [When Taking the Pill Doesn’t Feel Like a Choice: Women Share Their Stories](https://guidingstarproject.com/when-taking-the-pill-doesnt-feel-like-a-choice-women-share-their-stories/) - Sometimes taking the pill doesn’t feel like a choice. Many women take the pill because they think it’s the only option they have to avoid pregnancy or take care of their health. I asked women from across the world to share stories about the things their doctors have told them in an attempt to - [How to Make a Locksmith Feel Sorry for You](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-to-make-a-locksmith-feel-sorry-for-you/) - Step One: Make sure your husband is out of town on business. If this is too difficult to organize, a long commute time will suffice. It will make it more difficult for your spouse to leave work to rescue you. Step Two: Have at least four children under the age of seven. The higher the number - [The "I" Word...](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-i-word/) - It was a Sunday, early evening in July. I remember it very vividly. We had company at our house and I noticed the caller ID flashed across the TV as the phone rang. It was my doctor calling from his home. I snuck into the bedroom and answered it. I was scheduled for surgery early - [5 Things They Don't Tell Men About Pregnancy](https://guidingstarproject.com/5-things-they-dont-tell-men-about-pregnancy/) - For men, pregnancy can be very confusing. There are physical changes, lifestyle changes, appetite changes, emotional changes, sleep pattern changes, hormonal changes, doctors appointments, AND on top of all that, women have started talking about their pregnancy in weeks instead of months. It's so confusing. After the four pregnancies I have been through with my - [Tami's Story: Part V](https://guidingstarproject.com/tamis-story-part-v/) - This week we are running a five day series in honor of Child Abuse Awareness month. Today is the final part of the story shared by a woman named Tami Revering. She is going to tell you her story of severe postpartum depression and how it led her to abuse a child; an infant. She will - [Tami's Story: Part IV](https://guidingstarproject.com/tamis-story-part-iv/) - This week we are running a five day series in honor of Child Abuse Awareness month. Today is the fourth part of the story shared by a woman named Tami Revering. She is going to tell you her story of severe postpartum depression and how it led her to abuse a child; an infant. She will - [Tami's Story: Part III](https://guidingstarproject.com/tamis-story-part-iii/) - This week we are running a five day series in honor of Child Abuse Awareness month. Today is the third part of the story shared by a woman named Tami Revering. She is going to tell you her story of severe postpartum depression and how it led her to abuse a child; an infant. She will - [Tami's Story: Part II](https://guidingstarproject.com/tamis-story-part-ii/) - This week we are running a five day series in honor of Child Abuse Awareness month. Today is the second part of the story shared by a woman named Tami Revering. She is going to tell you her story of severe postpartum depression and how it led her to abuse a child; an infant. She will - [Tami's Story: Part I](https://guidingstarproject.com/tamis-story-part-i/) - This week we are running a five day series in honor of Child Abuse Awareness month. Today is the first part of the story shared by a woman named Tami Revering. She is going to tell you her story of severe postpartum depression and how it led her to abuse a child; an infant. She - [A Child Abuse Story: Tami's Side](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-child-abuse-story-tamis-side/) - Next week we are going to be running a five day series in honor of Child Abuse Awareness month. The story that we will be sharing was written by a woman named Tami Revering. She is going to tell you her story of severe postpartum depression and how it led her to abuse a child; - [Beautiful Body](https://guidingstarproject.com/beautifulbody/) - “I understood that every flower created by Him is beautiful, that the brilliance of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not lessen the perfume of the violet or the sweet simplicity of the daisy. I understood that if all the lowly flowers wished to be roses, nature would no longer be enameled - [Valuing Life in Loss](https://guidingstarproject.com/valuing-life-in-loss/) - The other day while traveling out of state with my family, I found myself in a new city standing in the checkout line of a grocery store. The customer in front of me in line was having difficulties with her order, making the wait quite long – I smiled at the flustered cashier to - [Yes, Consent is a thing... even in marriage.](https://guidingstarproject.com/yes-consent-is-a-thing-even-in-marriage/) - A few weeks back, Jess posted on the topic of consent in regards to intimate activities. While this can take on the vein of legalism and is decidedly not very sexy, ("May I have permission to kiss you?") needless to say, consent is a real thing that all persons engaging in sexual activity need - [When condoms actually increase the likelihood of pregnancy: Wait, what?!](https://guidingstarproject.com/when-condoms-actually-increase-the-likelihood-of-pregnancy-wait-what/) - Article first published by Natural Womanhood and Body Language Among those who promote fertility awareness based methods (FABM) of family planning and the body literacy that comes with them, opinion is split on the topic of condoms. I am simply going to use this opportunity to highlight one little-known (and pretty remarkable) fact: there - [The Importance of Consent](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-importance-of-consent/) - April 1st marks the beginning of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Current events (Ke$ha, Bill Cosby, and several onscreen fictional storylines even) have placed sexual assault and consent directly in the spotlight. So, what do we need to know about consent? Most of us likely have a particularly awful (yet cut and dry) image of sexual - [Women Need to be Loved](https://guidingstarproject.com/women-need-to-be-loved/) - Among my many loves is a love for science. I find it fascinating and inspiring to learn about the myriad details that scientists discover about our universe. Subatomic particles, atoms, biology, or astronomy — it is all endlessly captivating. For many people, spending time in nature is a deeply spiritual experience. For myself though, it - [My Introduction To The So-Called "Mommy Wars"](https://guidingstarproject.com/my-introduction-to-the-so-called-mommy-wars/) - Urban dictionary defines mommy wars as, Vicious, mean, provocative and disrespectful arguments on the internet between women, usually mothers who disagree on parenting styles or other controversial topics such as vaccines, clinical male infant circumcision, breastfeeding, abortion, choice of career, etc... When I first became a parent I had no idea that people were so competitive when - [Mercy in the Mundane](https://guidingstarproject.com/mercy-in-the-mundane/) - Though the Pope recently declared this the "Year of Mercy", it might as well have been declared the Year of Humble Pie for me. My husband, God love him, is one of the most merciful people I have ever met. He pretty much always gives people the benefit of the doubt and tries to meet - [4 Things You May Not Know About Your Period](https://guidingstarproject.com/4-things-you-may-not-know-about-your-period/) - Today's post comes from GSP blogger, Rebecca Menning, and has been reposted with permission from http://www.wellspringfertility.com/. Ah, periods; those lovely monthly visitors that all women have to deal with but few of us want to talk about. Many of us have negative feelings about our periods, whether we dread them, resent them, are mildly annoyed by - [Mommy brain](https://guidingstarproject.com/mommy-brain/) - It goes by many names: mommy brain, milk brain, baby brain—Call it what you will, it's all the same thing. It's a phenomenon that most mothers encounter in their pregnancy and postpartum days that makes them forgetful. It can turn someone with a super memory into a fool. We've all panicked because we can't find - [Sterilization: the responsible choice?](https://guidingstarproject.com/sterilization-the-responsible-choice/) - A few weeks ago, my husband recounted a conversation that he had had with some coworkers over his lunch break. The topic was birth control; permanent sterilization, in fact. My husband was surprised to hear that several of the guys (in their early 30’s) had already undergone the procedure, and one was seriously considering it. - [A Brave New World?](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-brave-new-world/) - I was listening to “Radio Lab” on NPR the other day and they were doing a one-hour special on surrogacy. In a nutshell, a same-sex couple from Israel used the eggs from a donor in the Ukraine with the sperm from each male partner to create two embryos (one of which split into two - [Stop Settling: Ask the Questions You Didn’t Think You Could Ask](https://guidingstarproject.com/stop-settling-ask-the-questions-you-didnt-think-you-could-ask/) - Cosmopolitan is the most successful women’s magazine1 because every cover is virtually identical. Far from being a poor advertising choice, I’m convinced that these repetitive covers are the genius behind the publication’s marketing strategy. The editors at Cosmo know exactly what they are doing. Supply and demand, baby! Month after month, year after year, we - [I'm Not a Double Agent, I Just Play One on TV.](https://guidingstarproject.com/im-not-a-double-agent-i-just-play-one-on-tv/) - "Okay, I have to ask: did you study for your interview? I mean, your answers were perfect." I let out a nervous chuckle at the question. My new coworker had sat in on my interview for the intimate partner and sexual violence advocacy position. Prior to the interview, I sat in the cozy living room of - [A word from our Founder](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-word-from-our-founder/) - It has been a time of explosive growth and development for Guiding Star and we are so happy to have you along for the ride. When a young group, like Guiding Star, goes through a period of such rapid growth it can sometimes be very easy to lose sight of the original mission and vision. - [25 Maddening, Hilarious, & Embarrassing Moments Almost Every Parent Experiences](https://guidingstarproject.com/25-parenting-experiences/) - Every parent has those moments. Moments when you think you are alone. Moments when it feels like you you are the only one that has gone through that one crazy moment. There are times when you might ask yourself, "Oh no!! Am I ruining my child?", "Oh my goodness, I hope people don't think I - [Three Natural Ways to Make Your Body Baby-Ready](https://guidingstarproject.com/three-natural-ways-to-make-your-body-baby-ready/) - I often find myself yelling “bodies are so cool!” and “bodies are so weird!”. As a physician, anatomy professor, and business lady, you would think I could find something more professional to say. But when it all comes down to it, I settle on one of those two statements several times a day. I could - [Women Deserve Emotionally Supportive Health Care](https://guidingstarproject.com/women-deserve-emotionally-supportive-health-care/) - Fertility, pregnancy and childbirth, though amazing things, can often be filled with a lot of fear and anxiety. Women wonder, 'Will I get pregnant?' 'Will I miscarry?' 'Will eating this hurt my baby?' 'Will childbirth be too painful?' When it comes to the medical personnel caring for us, giving us factual information while also helping women - [NFP Confessional: That Time I Held Our Chart Hostage](https://guidingstarproject.com/nfp-confessional-that-time-i-held-our-chart-hostage/) - Learning about our abilities is empowering. This is one of the reasons why those of us who promote Natural Family Planning spend a lot of energy celebrating how NFP teaches us the beautiful details about our bodies’ strengths. But NFP also teaches us the far-from beautiful details about our personal weaknesses. Yesterday, using NFP taught - [The Freedom of Letting Go](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-freedom-of-letting-go/) - “The bread which you do not use is the bread of the hungry; the garment hanging in your wardrobe is the garment of him who is naked; the shoes that you do not wear are the shoes of the one who is barefoot; the money that you keep locked away is the money of the - [Dropping the belief of "fair"](https://guidingstarproject.com/dropping-the-belief-of-fair/) - When I was teaching, it would inevitably come up: that something wasn't fair. I taught an inclusion classroom which meant that some kids received adaptations based on their individualized education plan (IEP.) Some of the changes were not easily noticed (two choices rather than four on a multiple choice test, one essay question rather than - [Part Four: Hope](https://guidingstarproject.com/part-four-hope/) - In today's post, Molly Volker shares the final part of her story of learning that her child, Nora, would be born with severe health issues, of life with Nora, experiencing the death of her child, and life afterwards. I encourage you to read Part I, Part II, and Part III. Molly means bitter. It suited - [Abstinence: Not a Dirty Word.](https://guidingstarproject.com/abstinence-not-a-dirty-word/) - Abstinence. It’s a word that makes many of us cringe. It means avoiding some indulgence, not partaking in a pleasurable activity, resisting our desires. When we think of periodic sexual abstinence in marriage, we generally think of cruel deprivation. ‘Natural’ or ‘beneficial’ are not words that we associate with abstinence, but I argue that they - [Choosing Your Stress](https://guidingstarproject.com/choosing-your-stress/) - 'Tis early November and the holiday season is in full swing. I find that my holiday season begins in September, or birthday month around our home, and it does not end until February. October is swallowed by talk of costumes and candy. By the time November arrives, we are all exhausted from the glory and - [Part III: Nora's Death](https://guidingstarproject.com/part-iii-noras-death/) - In today's guest post, Molly Volker shares Part III of Nora's life — and death. You may wish to read Part I where she describes her experience of finding out that her child, not yet born, would have severe health problems, and Part II, where she describes her life with Nora. If death can be - [Am I "Wearing The Pants?"](https://guidingstarproject.com/am-i-wearing-the-pants/) - It was one of those typical nights. Just surfing the web as my kids were finally nodding off to sleep. Somehow, I came across a link that said "Do You Wear The Pants?" "Well, gosh, I don't know. Maybe I need to find out," I told myself as I clicked the link. So, what - [Part II: Living the Life](https://guidingstarproject.com/part-ii-living-the-life/) - Today, our guest blogger Molly, continues her story about finding out that her daughter, Nora, was to be born with special needs. You can read Part I, here. Life with Nora was the most beautiful and the most painful fourteen months of our lives. Somehow the moments that we experienced with death knocking on our - [Pregnancy Loss and Rainbows](https://guidingstarproject.com/pregnancy-loss-and-rainbows/) - Today, we have a guest post from Martha Ray. How does one explain such profound loss which words can't describe? One doesn't even attempt to. Instead, Martha has recounted the experiences themselves, and left inadequate descriptions of the accompanying emotions largely unsaid. Martha and her husband, Isaac, live in Minnesota with their three living children, Joseph - [Going Out Your Door](https://guidingstarproject.com/going-out-your-door/) - In the rare (and exciting! and beloved!) times I meet someone who uses Natural Family Planning, we always end up talking about the same thing: why in the world don’t more people know about NFP? I even have friends who have heard of NFP and, although they choose to not use it, also agree that - [Part One: Pregnancy and Choice](https://guidingstarproject.com/part-one-pregnancy-and-choice/) - Today we have a guest post from Molly Volker. Molly is a pro-woman advocate who treasures opportunities to bring hope to the hopeless. She endeavors to bring light to dark places with the help of her heavenly child Nora (whose name means light). Anchored by her faith, as a wife and mother of four, she balances - [Love Lessons From a Four-Year Old](https://guidingstarproject.com/love-lessons-from-a-four-year-old/) - As long as I live, I don’t think I will ever cease to be amazed at how different my kids are. There are many similarities, of course, but for having come from the same gene pool, they are all so unique. This is particularly true of our middle child, Veronica. She recently turned four, so - [A Genuine Pro-Woman Approach](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-genuine-pro-woman-approach/) - This week's post comes from Guest Blogger, Marsha Cluever. Marsha resides in New Braunfels, TX with her husband and 8 children. At home she navigates the delicate balancing act of laundry, meals, bathroom cleaning and affection. She is a Minnesota native but doesn’t miss Winter….at all! As a spokesperson for Women Speak for Themselves she hopes - [Women Deserve Better Than Contraception: We Deserve to Be True Healthcare Partners](https://guidingstarproject.com/women-deserve-better-than-contraception-we-deserve-to-be-true-healthcare-partners/) - It happened a second time. It was a different hospital in a different town, but it seems like no matter what general health clinic I go to or what pregnancy it is, not much changes. A few months ago one Sunday evening I began to spot. I was almost seven weeks pregnant so my husband took me - [Women Deserve Better Than Contraception. But What About Women with Health Problems?](https://guidingstarproject.com/women-deserve-better-than-contraception-but-what-about-women-with-health-problems/) - I sat across the table from her after she had just had the Mirena IUD implanted. She was in severe pain. I listened as she told me how the she almost passed out from the pain when they were inserting it, and this from the woman who has experienced more pain than I probably ever - [Figuring Out Feminism](https://guidingstarproject.com/figuring-out-feminism/) - I did not want to be a feminist. I was pro-life, after all. Feminists are not pro-life. I had picked up many images over the years that told me feminists hate men and love abortion. An episode of Roseanne told me that feminists burn bras. So I sat there, still green in my new role - [Ignorance Is Not Always Bliss: Choosing Contraception](https://guidingstarproject.com/ignorance-is-not-always-bliss-choosing-contraception/) - Before my husband and I got married we were both excited to start our family, however the timing wasn't right. I did not want to go on the pill, so we looked into other methods of not getting pregnant. We had no idea there was an option outside of contraception. We talked about how we would - [3 Questions Women Should Ask Their Husbands](https://guidingstarproject.com/questions-for-husbands/) - The other day, I read a couple of articles about questions you should and should not ask your man/husband/boyfriend/whatever. For the most part, they were fine, but I felt a few questions were left out. Here's the thing, there are a lot of subjects, situations, or issues that we as men just don't consider until they come - [Dear Dr. Gatter: I Can't Promise You a Lamborghini. But I Can Promise You Your Dignity](https://guidingstarproject.com/dear-dr-gatter-i-cant-promise-you-a-lamborghini-but-i-can-promise-you-your-dignity/) - This week's guest post comes from And Then There Were None founder, and Guiding Star Project board member, Abby Johnson. Dear Dr. Gatter,Listen, I can’t promise you a Lamborghini. I can’t even promise you a used Ford Focus. But I can promise you something much more valuable…your dignity.I think I know why you got into the - [The Wonder of Fertility Awareness](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-wonder-of-fertility-awareness/) - I think every mother will agree that there is something magical about pregnancy. Despite the morning sickness, weight gain, swollen ankles and all the rest of the undignified symptoms that go with it, there is still an element of awe and wonder about conceiving, nurturing, and bringing forth a new life. There is a - [Let's support women!](https://guidingstarproject.com/lets-support-women/) - There is this cartoon that often makes its way around the internet. In the first panel, it shows a pregnant woman with three men (seemingly politicians) offering to help her. The next panel shows the woman with her newborn baby and the men are now yelling at her to do it all on her own. - [The Thief of Joy](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-thief-of-joy/) - President Theodore Roosevelt once said,”Comparison is the thief of joy.” I have never found this to be more true than in my life as a mother. My kids recently participated in a week long summer program for kids. The program was all day for first grade and older, but only a half day for pre-k - [Turn, Turn, Turn](https://guidingstarproject.com/turn-turn-turn/) - Every morning it starts the same way: as soon as the first slivers of light break the horizon, my blissful sleep is interrupted with wandering hands and a sweet little voice saying "Mama, the sun's awake. Milkies, milkies..." Soon that sweet voice dissolves into tears of frustration because the rule is "No milkies until - [More Than Just a Carbon Footprint](https://guidingstarproject.com/more-than-just-a-carbon-footprint/) - What is a Carbon Footprint? Carbon Footprint: the amount of greenhouse gases and specifically carbon dioxide emitted by something (as a person's activities or a product's manufacture and transport) during a given period Not too long ago, a good friend of mine announced to a woman with whom he was carpooling that his wife was - [Human Trafficking and Our Call to Action](https://guidingstarproject.com/human-trafficking-and-our-call-to-action/) - In the year 2015, slavery is often thought to be a thing of the past. For many young women and children, it is a gruesome and current reality we call sex trafficking. I don't know about you, but when I hear about sex trafficking, I can't help but feel removed from the term. I picture - [Life Doesn't Always Happen the Way We Plan, and That's Okay.](https://guidingstarproject.com/life-doesnt-always-happen-the-way-we-plan-and-thats-okay/) - Many people assert that Natural Family Planning (NFP) or Fertility Awareness isn't just a method of birth control, but that it is a lifestyle. After having used NFP for almost nine years now, since shortly after the birth of my oldest child, I would agree. Some of my outlook on life has been influenced by my use - [Kids, a College Degree, and a Career? It can be done...](https://guidingstarproject.com/schoolcareerkids/) - "Oh-no! She could lose her scholarship or have to drop out of school. Her whole entire life is going to be in shambles."; "He had such a promising football career until he got that girl pregnant. What a waste."; "I was just getting started on my career. A baby is not part of my plan." - [Contraception, Consequences and Freedom](https://guidingstarproject.com/contraception-consequences-and-freedom/) - This is a picture of me from five years ago. As it appeared on my Facebook feed recently, I couldn't believe the raw emotions that sprung forward. In no particular order, here were some of my thoughts. That's the scooter that my husband Shaun drove while he finished his bachelor's degree in Grand Forks. We - [A Mother's Pain](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-mothers-pain/) - It was a time of intense trial and suffering for our family. Of course no family or person is immune from hardship or suffering. Now it was our turn. As always, we had our faithful family members and friends at our side, helping us in practical and thoughtful ways. It was during this time - [I Am Who I Am](https://guidingstarproject.com/i-am-who-i-am/) - I thought I might say something about the process I went through to arrive at some of my beliefs regarding women's liberation. I would like to do so because I feel that so often people who have opposing viewpoints (perhaps somewhat naturally) can vilify one another. And I think that if people could stop throwing - [Pro-Life is a Verb](https://guidingstarproject.com/pro-life-is-a-verb/) - When I was in college, I defined being pro-life as “protecting all life from conception to natural death.” I still very much believe in that definition, but as a mother now, I would like to propose a new depth to the term being pro-life. We recently had our fifth child and were overwhelmed with the - [Twinkle, twinkle...](https://guidingstarproject.com/twinkle-twinkle/) - Several years ago, when I set out on this journey that has become the Guiding Star Project I had a vision of comprehensive wellness centers that could meet the varied needs of all women. These centers would be places where women of all ages and backgrounds could come together and be served. They could be - [Seeking Beauty, Finding Me](https://guidingstarproject.com/seeking-beauty-finding-me/) - I have a confession to make. I have never looked at myself as beautiful. Crazy, right? But seriously, when I look in the mirror I see the following: A gigantic overbite and crooked lower teeth; my mom could hardly afford dental treatment for us, let alone braces. Irritating hairs on my nose, upper lip and - [In Her Shoes – Are you really loving your sister?](https://guidingstarproject.com/in-her-shoes-are-you-really-loving-your-sister/) - Women are very relational; we just love to help! We see the needs of people around us and we want to fix it. We see people struggling and we want to offer advise on how to do it a better way. Sometimes our best intentions of doing the good deed of helping can actually be - [Belly Drums](https://guidingstarproject.com/belly-drums/) - "Hey mom! You have a big ol' belly! It looks great for playing the drums!" I look up at my three and a half year old daughter, and she is wearing the biggest grin I have ever seen and her eyes are bright with admiration as she begins to pat both our bellies. "Yours is - [The Light of Hope in Tampa](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-light-of-hope-in-tampa-2/) - Recently, The Guiding Star Project added another affiliate to the Guiding Star Family. LifeChoices Women's Care, a pregnancy resource center, signed an affiliate agreement with us and will be transitioning to become Guiding Star Tampa. LifeChoices recently held an event and the executive director, Ana Hidalgo Stooks, gave a speech that so beautifully articulated the vision - [Dear Doug, (Porn-ish Advertising, Women's Body Image, & NFP Participation)](https://guidingstarproject.com/deardoug1/) - Since I started writing and blogging, a comment I get pretty often is, "It's great to hear/read a man's point of view about that." It's usually in regards to me talking about topics that are almost exclusively related to "women's issues". So, I figured why not open up my Facebook page to a few questions - [Sorry Folks. Contraception Access Increases Abortions. And Here's the Proof.](https://guidingstarproject.com/sorry-folks-contraception-access-increases-abortions-and-heres-the-proof/) - This week we have a guest post from Pro-life speaker, And Then There Were None Founder, and Guiding Star board member, Abby Johnson. Every time I post something on my Facebook about abortion, there will inevitably be someone who makes a comment that says something like this, "Don't women know how to use birth control - [Unexpected C-Sections: More Than Just a Physical Scar](https://guidingstarproject.com/my-c-section-jouney/) - This week we have a guest post from Jenny who blogs about her experience of giving birth via cesarean section. Jenny has been involved in the pro-life movement since she was ten and has worked for various pro-life groups, including Texas Alliance for Life , The John Paul II Life Center in Austin, and for - [For When the Time Comes](https://guidingstarproject.com/for-when-the-time-comes/) - A few weeks ago I was in line at the store, checking out. This is pretty much my children's favorite part of going to the store because they get to ask for stickers. In almost perfect harmony, they sing-song "Stickers pwease!" and the cashiers melt into puddles, and give them stacks of them. I watched - [The Buck Stops Here!](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-buck-stops-here/) - The phrase "The Buck Stops Here," was on the desk of President Harry Truman. The plaque on his desk was a way of symbolizing that the president has to make decisions and has to take full responsibility for those decisions, no matter the consequence. In regards to sex, it seems that we as a society - [The Art of Simplified Beauty](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-art-of-simplified-beauty/) - This morning, I happened to look down at my belly the moment the light caught my stretch marks just so, illuminating the translucent-purple lines that grace my naval and slink out across the expansion of flesh. I am not pregnant. But I have been. Seven times. My once-flat stomach has stretched itself wide over the - [Your Body is not Broken](https://guidingstarproject.com/your-body-is-not-broken/) - I didn’t think I would need to hear these words again. After an almost twenty year battle of dealing with the mental aftermath of an eating disorder, I thought I had turned a final corner in how I viewed myself, seeing my body as the beautiful creation that was made just for me. I have - [Activism Breeds Violence When It Excludes Love](https://guidingstarproject.com/activism-breeds-violence-when-it-excludes-love/) - She said that she wanted to save me. She came crashing into the hotel and raised her sign, her voice, and her message that I, and all the women there, were slaves who needed to be liberated. She was angry, screaming, and accompanied by several others who were shouting (though not so loudly) the same - [Four Little Relationship Helps](https://guidingstarproject.com/four-little-relationship-helps/) - Relationship advice is rampant. Daytime talk shows, magazines, and pop-psychology books are all filled with it. One of the deepest longings of the human heart is to be truly seen and deeply loved for who we are. As I was reminiscing about my own marriage (on having recently celebrated my ninth wedding anniversary) I came up - [The Sexiest Thing My Wife Ever Said](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-sexiest-thing-my-wife-ever-said/) - From the time my wife and I started dating, she was always on some sort of contraception. She bounced around from method to method, changing it every so often. She used everything from the ring to the shot, and condoms to an IUD. Even after we were married, there was always some sort of "prevention" - [Why You Just Can’t Get Through to Her](https://guidingstarproject.com/why-you-just-cant-get-through-to-her/) - Have you ever tried to tell someone who is struggling with her self-image how beautiful she is? You know she desperately wants to believe you, but – she – just – can’t. You are upset; you feel rejected. Why won’t she just believe you?! Why can’t she just see what you see or just trust - [When Someone You Know is One in Five](https://guidingstarproject.com/when-someone-you-know-is-one-in-five/) - Statistics say that 1 in every 5 births will result in a loss. More number crunching will reveal that the majority of these losses will be miscarriages, and in the early first trimester. Numbers can be helpful. They can tell us a lot. But in the case of pregnancy loss numbers leave a lot more - [Congratulations, Pregnant Mama!](https://guidingstarproject.com/congratulations-pregnant-mama/) - What is it about a pregnant woman that gives other people the feeling that they can just say whatever they'd like? Do they think that the woman has lost her mind and will not remember the comments? I know that most days I felt I had some pregnancy brain, but that did not decrease the sting - [The Art of Slowing Down](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-art-of-slowing-down/) - Amazon recently ran a special discounting their prime membership for a year. Knowing that Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood is on it, I jumped on the good deal as a fallback for surviving the next two months of pregnancy/winter with four feral-like kids that would live outside if I let them. That afternoon, I started a random - [The Secret of Cultivating Kindness](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-secret-of-cultivating-kindness/) - Comparison and competition. Everywhere you look there is comparison and competition. People are competing for your money, your time, your efforts. Comparison in the form of "Mommy Wars" are at a high, I've even heard other ladies say that they really can't trust their "best friends" because at some point they are going to just - [Which is the Superior Sex?](https://guidingstarproject.com/which-is-the-superior-sex/) - Perhaps you have heard the recent comments (and subsequently firestorm of rebuttal articles) by a certain well-known Catholic cardinal who seemed to say that the women’s movement has hurt society and especially men. He isn’t the first so–called conservative–thinking celebrity to lump all facets of the women’s movement into one, aligning all women–related efforts to radical - [The 1970's Called - They Want Their Arguments Back](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-1970s-called/) - This week we have a guest post from Pro-Life Advocate and speaker, Meagan Weber. We are just days away from the 42nd anniversary date of the Supreme Court’s decision to pass Roe v Wade and Doe v Bolton. Many pro-life organizations are solidifying the final details of their annual pilgrimage to Washington DC, and the - [Every Birth is a Different Story](https://guidingstarproject.com/every-birth-is-a-different-story/) - I'm one of those people that tends to be a bit cynical and believes that once you experience something three times, there isn't much to tell when it happens the fourth time. I've written a birth story or two before. It was good to get it out of my system, but I didn't think that - [A Different Kind of New Year's Resolution](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-different-kind-of-new-years-resolution-2/) - The new year is here and with it the many reduced gym and fitness memberships, the weight-loss pill advertisements, and the numerous articles addressed to getting fit in magazines, blogs, and morning shows. Of course, being healthy is important, but it seems often the emphasis is less about respecting one's body and more about hounding women - [A Husband’s Perspective: Postpartum Depression](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-husbands-perspective-post-partum-depression/) - Saying that postpartum depression affects only the woman experiencing it is like saying that alcoholism only impacts the person who is drinking destructively. It is obvious that postpartum depression affects the dynamic of the entire family, not only the individual. When our first child Grace was born, Abby went through over a year-long struggle with postpartum depression. (For the sake of brevity, let's use PPD from this point forward.) To say that this was an - [Things I Shouldn't Have to Say](https://guidingstarproject.com/things-i-shouldnt-have-to-say/) - I am someone who loves memories. I love photo albums, journals, and anything that reminds me of how blessed our family has been and is. We tried something new this year, an idea from pinterest that actually materialized and didn’t involve almost burning my kitchen down with a “super easy” recipe. We took an oatmeal - [New Feminists Honor Motherhood and Every Other Gift Too](https://guidingstarproject.com/new-feminists-honor-motherhood-and-every-other-gift-too/) - The word "Feminism" is a popular and also contentious word, with many women of diverse opinions and outlooks claiming the term. As Women Speak for Themselves have clearly stated again and again, no one speaks for all women on any issue, particularly "women's issues". (Though I always say that women's issues are everyone's issues.) It is - [Why It Took Me 36 Hours to Recover from Praying Outside Planned Parenthood](https://guidingstarproject.com/why-it-took-me-36-hours-to-recover-from-praying-outside-planned-parenthood/) - This week's post comes from Jewels Green, former abortion worker turned Pro-Life advocate. I was nervous. I’ve been pro-life for about 3 years but I’d only prayed outside of abortion facilities a few times. Each time I’d been nervous, uneasy, worried. Each time had been painful, discouraging, yet grace-filled. Bearing witness to the horror and - [Feminism's Christmas Superpower](https://guidingstarproject.com/feminisms-christmas-superpower/) - I remember my great grandma's apron at Christmas time. It was constantly worn and almost threadbare, but it never looked unkempt or particularly dirty. It suited the happy scene and it suited grandma. She was in the environment she thrived on and the little frown wrinkle between her brows didn't fool anyone. She loved to serve. It - [The Importance of Pro-Life Doctors](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-importance-of-pro-life-doctors/) - Like many people I know, I have been spending the month of November attempting to be deliberately more aware of my blessings. I’ve written before about keeping a journal in which I have been listing the blessings in my life, which is a great way to keep a good perspective on things and remain grateful. - [Is Choice All That Matters?](https://guidingstarproject.com/is-choice-all-that-matters/) - I observed a few heated internet exchanges recently between those who consider themselves Feminists and those they perceived as "anti-woman". Most recently, the topic was egg and sperm donation. One person (who is male) stated that egg donation exploits the donor. The person whom he was speaking with (a woman) then accused him of sexism - [Giving Opportunity](https://guidingstarproject.com/giving-opportunity/) - This week's post comes from GSP blogger, Chaunie Brusie, letting us know about a great opportunity to help women and infants in need. Since I wrote my book, Tiny Blue Lines: Reclaiming Your Life, Preparing For Your Baby, and Moving Forward in an Unplanned Pregnancy, I've been hoping to get it into the hands of the - [Give to the Max 2014 Results!](https://guidingstarproject.com/give-to-the-max-2014-results/) - Thanks so much for Giving to the Max this past week! Thanks to your generosity we raised a grand total of $1545.00 in less than 24 hours to benefit the national Guiding Star Project and two of our affiliate cities. We are so grateful for all your support! - [The Value of Us All](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-value-of-us-all/) - Earlier this spring, a young African-American woman posted a photo of herself breastfeeding at her college graduation. Rather than see the positive side, that this young woman graduated college while raising and breastfeeding a baby, so many people had only negative things to say, and the woman eventually ended up deleting it. A few months later - [It's Okay, You Can Be a Feminist](https://guidingstarproject.com/its-okay-you-can-be-a-feminist/) - Our culture takes issue with the term 'Feminist,' by casting a singular light on it. A woman is either proudly a "feminist," or takes insult at the term. Because "Feminist" can carry a connotation of the crass and crude, many women remove themselves from the term, despite their power to use their status boldly. Feminism, - [Feminism Redefined](https://guidingstarproject.com/feminism-redefined/) - To those who think that feminism is poison: Let me introduce myself. I am a SAHM of 6 darling children, a wife to an amazing man, a homeschooler, a church-goer, a daughter, a sister to 6 siblings and their spouses, aunt to 18. Oh, and I am also a feminist. Wait! Before you click away - [Taking Time to Look Closely](https://guidingstarproject.com/taking-time-to-look-closely/) - A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I were loitering in our foyer after Church, chatting with various families while our crew ran amok around us. A friend that I have only just begun to get to know better over the past few months came over and said, “I just wanted to tell you - [To Be a Woman](https://guidingstarproject.com/to-be-a-woman/) - It is of supreme importance to talk about the Feminine Abilities and to try to give them the honor and respect that is their due, because they are so often disdained in our culture. I wonder sometimes, however, that if we focus so much on those things, if we might run the risk of making - [How Do We Support Those Who Make Bad Decisions?](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-do-we-support-those-who-make-bad-decisions/) - This week, we have a guest post from Meagan Weber, a powerful woman with an amazing story. To learn more about Meagan, you can read her testimony: https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/sex-drugs-abuse-and-suicide-my-journey-from-the-darkness-to-pro-life-activi To keep up to date with Meagan, follow her on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/MegWeberFromtheAshes?ref=ts&fref=ts If you are interested in having Meagan speak at your event on the topic of Assisted - [How to Heal Broken Sisterhood](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-to-heal-broken-sisterhood/) - I was in the middle of the most physically and emotionally difficult year of my life. My health had been shaky, I was battling chronic pain and having difficulty finding foods that didn't send my stomach into spasms. My fifth child was six months old and I was experiencing post-partum depression for the first time. - [Will The Men of the Natural Fertility Revolution Please Stand Up?](https://guidingstarproject.com/will-the-men-of-the-natural-fertility-revolution-please-stand-up/) - It is becoming increasingly clearer with time and research that the magic birth control Pill sold to women as the answer to all sexual inequity is merely a cancer causing, stroke starting, problem masking, and fertility decreasing mess of a “medication”. It hasn’t helped women become any more self actualized and in reality has created - [Together For Life!](https://guidingstarproject.com/together-for-life/) - On September 17th, the Guiding Star Project partnered with The ProLife Center at The University of St Thomas to host our Together For Life fundraiser in the Twin Cities. Abby Johnson was our main speaker and we were so honored to have her help share the vision of the Guiding Star Project. As the former - [Mirror, Mirror, Running Around My House....](https://guidingstarproject.com/mirror-mirror-running-around-my-house/) - I can name dozens, if not hundreds, of ways in which I have been completely unprepared for motherhood. But if I am honest, one of the things that has shocked me the most and continues to almost scandalize me every three to four months is a little project I like to call Seasonal Clothing Swap - [The Disempowerment of Women](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-disempowerment-of-women/) - Parenting experts often discuss the importance of how parents talk to their children. Parents are reminded to keep discussions positive and to uplift children by our encouragement and trust in their abilities. Call a child stupid or worthless often enough, the child will believe it and live up to the label. On the other hand, - [Struggling Mommy](https://guidingstarproject.com/jealous-mommy/) - I'm a stay at home mommy. I wanted it this way. I would never want that to change. But there are times when I find myself looking over the fence. The greener pastures look oh, so green compared to what I'm standing on. My youngest son was just diagnosed with a corn allergy. It's left - [Investing in Friends](https://guidingstarproject.com/investing-in-friends/) - Recently I had an encounter with a friend I had not seen in years. It started as a friendly Facebook message, “Hey can I get your phone number?” Excited to catch up with her as it had been a few years I shared it with her and said “Call anytime!” The next day I saw - [Never Too Many Babies](https://guidingstarproject.com/never-too-many-babies/) - By Chaunie Marie Brusie, RN, BSN No matter how many babies you've had, there's no such thing as being too prepared. A few nights ago, I had my first-ever “false labor alarm.” I’ve just never been one of those women who wavered on the contractions, wondering,“Oh, was that a real one? Is this it?” My - [A pretty kind of chaos](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-pretty-kind-of-chaos/) - This morning when I woke up, our house was a brisk 64 degrees, and I got almost giddy remembering that fall is right around the corner. There are so many things I love about fall- the leaves changing, the cooler weather, layering clothes, apples, pumpkins...the list goes on. As a former teacher and current homeschooling - [Campus Sexual Assault](https://guidingstarproject.com/campus-sexual-assault/) - My first two years of college were spent at a state university. I lived on campus, and walked everywhere. The campus was gorgeous, and it felt like living in a dream. I loved my classes, I was meeting new people, and I had even reconnected with some youth group buddies. Many evenings, I would leave - [Mothers Always Know](https://guidingstarproject.com/mothers-always-know/) - I was putting on my flip flops to go back outside for more walking when I realized that perhaps I should not leave the house after all. I looked at the round tub next to me, longing for the warmth of the water to be poured down my back again. Then another contraction came and - [NFP Benefits](https://guidingstarproject.com/nfp-benefits/) - As many of you may know, many people celebrated NFP Awareness Week recently. There were so many great articles floating around the blogosphere, and I wanted to share a little bit about the many ways NFP has blessed our marriage. Going into our marriage, there was never a question as to whether or not we - [Get Thee To An Instructor!](https://guidingstarproject.com/get-thee-to-an-instructor/) - I have a confession to make. I wasn't always so confident in tracking my fertility signs as I am now. Ahaba Marriage Meter app Not the sort of saucy and sordid confession you were hoping for? Sorry. But that's my confession. Anyone who has used Natural Family Planning for some time knows that it takes - [Rebuilding the Culture](https://guidingstarproject.com/time-to-rebuild/) - The Guiding Star Project has been getting a lot of email inquiries and other activity lately, so much in fact that we are having trouble keeping up with it all! I of course am excited about the Guiding Star Project's mission, but it's cool to see so many others excited about it too. I can't - [When You Aren't Loving Motherhood](https://guidingstarproject.com/when-you-arent-loving-motherhood/) - “Do you really think you would enjoy this?” I said to my husband over our fajitas last night.“Do you really think you would like staying home, day after day after day with them?” He looked rather sheepishly down at his plate of rice and beans and shook his head. I nodded, triumphantly stabbing my grilled - [Having it all as the Mother of Five](https://guidingstarproject.com/having-it-all-as-the-mother-of-five/) - I sit down to write this blog post (which is 5 days overdue) between three kids jumping on the trampoline with large bouncy balls, one playing a computer game, one riding his bike in the alley behind our house, and my husband sleeping off a night-shift from the night before. I have ushered four - [Mirror, Mirror, on the Blog...](https://guidingstarproject.com/mirror-mirror-on-the-blog/) - There has been a lot of chatter recently about whether or not to tell young girls that they are pretty. This post is going to be more of a conversation starter than a conclusion maker, because I’m torn. Simcha Fisher has a thoughtful post “Please tell your daughter she's pretty.” She recounts an Ad that - [Moms of Littles, This Stage Does Not Define You](https://guidingstarproject.com/moms-of-littles-this-stage-does-not-define-you/) - Do you ever get the feeling that you are a complete mess? Like, take yesterday for instance. I made the bold decision to take all three kids into the store for a split second in order to purchase a ridiculously expensive ink cartridge for my printer. We were in the store less than five minutes, - [Why Feminism?](https://guidingstarproject.com/why-feminism/) - Every so often (rather often, in fact) this or that person in the blogging world, in politics, or in every day life will comment that Feminism is not needed anymore. They say the word is too "tarnished" now, being associated with angry and vulgar women. They say that what the original feminists fought for, the - ["It doesn't concern you!"](https://guidingstarproject.com/it-doesnt-concern-you/) - "(Insert name here), it doesn't concern you!" This is a phrase I find myself uttering often throughout my 13-14 hour days with the hooligans. I have one with a particularly busybody temperament who is the recipient of this phrase more than the others. While the others are somewhat oblivious to their surroundings, this child always - [Desperately Daddy](https://guidingstarproject.com/desperately-daddy/) - (Adapted from this post here.) The sighs and cooing of an overtired baby are a constant symphony in our bedroom late at night. I roll over to see my equally-tired hubby rocking my youngest as his lamb-like lowing floats across our king-sized bed. Baby was just asleep; rocked there on the soft lullaby of warm - [Infertility and Loss](https://guidingstarproject.com/infertility-and-loss/) - If my eighth grade sex ed class had not solidified my pro-life stance, my infertility would have definitely done the job. All newlyweds experience the constant questioning: "How's the married life?" " When are you having kids?" "Are you pregnant yet?" "I bet your parents can't wait for those grandbabies!" We were no different. It - [Commitment to Celebrate Life](https://guidingstarproject.com/commitment-to-celebrate-life/) - This week Guiding Star blogger, Chaunie Brusie shares some of her experiences of being pregnant and not married. Her experiences support a comment I read from someone who worked at a crisis pregnancy center. The worker stated that it usually isn't too difficult to convince someone who isn't religious not to abort, because what - [The Double Standard of Women's Healthcare](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-double-standard-of-womens-healthcare/) - Written by Amanda Castro The Matt Walsh Blog is something that I read in passing. Usually my friends will post something on their feed and it pops up in mine and if the title is catchy enough, I read it. It’s not that fancy. His latest article, “I paid to have babies murdered and all I - [On Idealism and Embracing Reality](https://guidingstarproject.com/on-idealism-and-embracing-reality/) - I was a better mom before I had kids. Much better, in fact. This is mostly due to the fact that my theoretical children weren’t able to talk, think for themselves, or make poor choices...details that, amusingly enough, seemed unimportant at the time. The summer after my freshman year of college, I baby-sat four kids, - [Infertility and Infant Loss Resources](https://guidingstarproject.com/infertility-and-infant-loss-resources/) - It is Infertility Awareness Week and we at The Guiding Star Project would like to join our thoughts with the many who struggle with this issue. Sometimes infertility means being unable to conceive. Other times it can take the form of people who have had children, now being unable to have more. Some who experience - [Pornography 101](https://guidingstarproject.com/pornography-101/) - Guiding Star founder, Leah wrote an opinion piece last week about Miriam, the Duke University Freshman who is receiving a lot of media attention because she is working her way through college by starring in porn films. The post got me thinking. CNN host, Piers Morgan; the women of The View; and many others are - [Porn is NOT liberation; it is Exploitation](https://guidingstarproject.com/porn-is-not-liberation-it-is-exploitation/) - I recently came across the Piers Morgan interview with a Duke University student who has been living a double life as a college student and porn star. This young lady, Miriam Weeks, says she has been working in the sex industry to help pay for her college tuition, but that she would choose this lifestyle regardless - [The Truth About Sexual Violence](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-truth-about-sexual-violence/) - How can we support survivors of sexual assault while encouraging the rehabilitation of sexual assault offenders? The above question has been plaguing me since I started writing this post weeks ago. It follows that supporting survivors and dismantling rape culture would include rehabilitation and counseling for offenders, as well as understanding offender demographics, but how - [A Helping Hand](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-helping-hand/) - In general, there are few things that can entice me to grocery shop with all of my kids in tow, for obvious reasons, but deals too good to pass up is one of them. Our local grocery store has a "Dollar Day" four times a year. I prep my list the night before, bring a - [What about when my body DOES have problems? An interview with Rexann Hammons.](https://guidingstarproject.com/what-about-when-my-body-does-have-problems-an-interview-with-rexann-hammons/) - Our culture likes to paint the female body as an oppressor, a sinister villain opposed to all the dreams that women have for themselves. It is the nemesis who cunningly tries to foil all our chances at equality by menstruating, gestating, and lactating. In this scenario, birth control pills and devices, and abortions are the - [Getting Closer to a Healthier Body Image](https://guidingstarproject.com/getting-closer-to-a-healthier-body-image/) - I dislike my body. After four children, things are not exactly where they used to be. Things are bigger, other things are smaller, others are misshapen. It certainly isn’t he body I used to have. I’m jealous of women who bounce right back to their pre-pregnancy body. We all know someone who seems to miraculously - [Be Courageous, You Never Know Where it Might Lead](https://guidingstarproject.com/be-courageous-you-never-know-where-it-might-lead/) - A few weeks ago, I was buzzing through Walgreens taking advantage of a little toy sale they had and getting a few other things. Having my 9 month old in the small cart and the 2 year old on my hip made for an interesting visit. My two year old is your average two year - [An Open Letter to Dr. Wicklund](https://guidingstarproject.com/an-open-letter-to-dr-wicklund/) - Tonight, I found the following photo haunting my Facebook feed. For the sake of brevity, I will move beyond my initial ranting thoughts that focused on lack of funding, true healthcare reform, and medical practices that over-complicate birth. I want to address the concerns that Dr. Wicklund mentions in her above experience: resources. Dr. - [Battle Buddy](https://guidingstarproject.com/battle-buddy/) - Finding your almost two-year-old standing on your kitchen counter digging in the cupboard for candy, completely naked. Calling your mother in tears to exclaim, "I'm running out of places to hide the knives!" or "They figured out the childproofing again!" Having your four-year-old charge head-first into your priest, nearly tackling him. These are all scenarios - [Population Control: The New White Man's Burden](https://guidingstarproject.com/population-control-the-new-white-mans-burden/) - In 1899, Rudyard Kipling's famous poem "The White Man's Burden" was first published. The poem was originally subtitled "The United States and the Philippine Islands". Although the poem was likely written with the intent to inspire the wealthy people from industrialized nations to "save" the "backward" races with our "superior" ways of doing things (whether - [Ricki Lake: New Feminist?](https://guidingstarproject.com/ricki-lake-new-feminist/) - I learned recently that former talk show hostess Rick Lake has begun work on another documentary concerning women’s health. This one, called Sweetening the Pill, has me really excited because it supposedly is going to be focused on shedding light on the facts about how dangerous hormonal contraceptives are to women’s bodies and will explore - [Happy Valentine’s Day!We Are Stronger than We Think.](https://guidingstarproject.com/happy-valentines-day-we-are-stronger-than-we-think/) - Cecilia Richards, President of Planned Parenthood, made waves again this week when she suggested that what women need for Valentine’s Day is abortion, more abortion, and more birth control. So, on this day of love forget romance, chocolate, and whispering sweet nothings, Richards says all women need is more mutilation of their femininity. There was - [Taking the "Crisis" Out of a Crisis Pregnancy](https://guidingstarproject.com/taking-the-crisis-out-of-a-crisis-pregnancy/) - The abortion debate is divisive, at best. To survive it, I have to believe that those on either side of the fence mostly want the same thing: to help women. This means that we differ when it comes to approach. So here we go: another post about abortion. Let me tell you first what this - [Strangers on a Train, an Accidental Tale of the Beauty and Selfless Love that is Adoption](https://guidingstarproject.com/strangers-on-a-train-an-accidental-tale-of-the-beauty-and-selfless-love-that-is-adoption/) - This post was written by Jewels Green, Pro-life advocate, writer, convert. Reprinted with permission. The original post can be found at http://jewelsgreen.com/strangers-on-a-train-an-accidental-tale-of-the-beauty-and-selfless-love-that-is-adoption/ “Adoption is real – and it’s forever.” - Dr. Bill Platypus, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood: Season 16, Episode 4: “Families” I’ll talk to anyone. No, really. I chat up the other shoppers in line at - [Open To Life](https://guidingstarproject.com/open-to-life/) - My husband and I just shared the news publicly that we are expecting baby number eight. We’ve lost two so the ones who are left with us would be the five littles, age 9 and under, whom I chase around the house all day, and the one growing safely in my womb. Six kids! We shared the news - [Appreciating Authentic Masculinity](https://guidingstarproject.com/appreciating-authentic-masculinity/) - Last October, our family moved basically into the middle of nowhere to a beautiful house on 12 acres of woods. Shortly after we moved in, our parish priest came over to "scout out the land" with my husband and put up a few deer stands. After they finished, he noticed a collage picture propped up - [When I Became Pregnant](https://guidingstarproject.com/when-i-became-pregnant/) - This post has been reprinted with minor edits with permission. The original post can be found at http://www.myfemininemind.com/2011/05/when-i-became-pregnant.html When I became pregnant I wasn't exactly the model of mental health. I had just begun actually dealing with trauma from my childhood rather than just pushing it inside and pretending it never happened. Dealing with it was - [Jason Jones and 40 to be Hosted by The Guiding Star Project](https://guidingstarproject.com/jason-jones-and-40-to-be-hosted-by-the-guiding-star-project/) - For Immediate Release January 7, 2014 Twin Cities, MN: The Guiding Star Project will be hosting Jason Jones and holding a screening of the "40" film on January 25th at the University of Saint Thomas OEC Auditorium as part of their 2014 fundraising campaign. Admission is free to the general public, and there will be a time to - [Holistic Healthcare: A Game Changer](https://guidingstarproject.com/game-changer/) - The world of gynecology is not a fun place for women such as myself. It can be pretty tough to find a physician willing to take a holistic approach in treating health/fertility issues. From the start, I had irregular cycles. When I was in middle school, it was attributed to my body adjusting to the - [A Different Kind of New Year's Resolution](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-different-kind-of-new-years-resolution/) - The new year is almost here and many people are preparing to put their New Year's resolutions in action. For many women, their resolution will be to lose a certain amount of weight, or perhaps they've made the more general resolution to "get in shape." Of course, being healthy and trying to make positive changes - [Will the Real Men Please Stand Up?](https://guidingstarproject.com/will-the-real-men-please-stand-up/) - I was just having a conversation on my Facebook page with a friend, inspired by this story. My posting that story was as a bit of a comparison to this story. The conversation was about how sad the world has become when men can’t just be men. In the first story, the girl’s boyfriend chose - [Stefany's NaPro Story](https://guidingstarproject.com/stefanys-napro-story/) - One thing that sets New Feminism apart is its insistence that women are good. It insists that we can not respect women by disrespecting their bodies. We cannot raise women up while painting their bodies and their natural functions as bad. As The Guiding Star Project's aim is to create Guiding Star centers where women - [The Feminine Abilities](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-feminine-abilities/) - I've been asked several times recently what I mean when I refer to this idea of "The Feminine Abilities". I use the phrase when I speak and sometimes when I write. By “Feminine Abilities” I am referring to the three uniquely female physical abilities: to conceive, birth, and nourish children with only their bodies. To ovulate, - [Girl Plates and Boy Plates](https://guidingstarproject.com/girl-plates-and-boy-plates/) - My family and I are just trying to get through dinner. The two year old is singing, and nursing a fresh wound from her brother’s fork. The seven month old is losing his patience with the green beans and is ready to be nursed. My husband and I are trying to finish our plates before - [Pro-Life In The Trenches.](https://guidingstarproject.com/pro-life-in-the-trenches/) - In college, a group of students and I would pray outside an abortion clinic early Saturday mornings. After several weeks of praying outside on my knees in the cold, I had an itch to do more, so I trained to be a sidewalk counselor to try and convince women, between the distance of the parking - [Fecundophobia? Seriously? Try Neoteny.](https://guidingstarproject.com/fecundophobia-seriously-try-neoteny/) - Over the last 3 weeks, there has been a buzz about the newly termed “fecundophobia” or fear of children and fertile women. It is argued that this fear is the problem with our society. Really? That’s our great problem? I’m not buying it. While I’ll admit there seems to be an aversion to fertility, children, - [Modesty in the Modern World](https://guidingstarproject.com/modesty-in-the-modern-world/) - There’s much a stir in cyber space about the word ‘modesty’ these days. The antics from both sides of the fence, from all over the map, blare loudly across social media and the blogosphere. Whilst most everywhere you look, the mainstream media smears images and catch phrases that scream the exact opposite of what any - [Intimate Partner Violence](https://guidingstarproject.com/intimate-partner-violence/) - One of the reasons I believe in the mission of The Guiding Star Project is its supportive nature. Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a cause that has become close to my heart, and the mission of the project is one that by its nature is capable of providing survivors with the support and resources needed - [Do you Believe in Reproductive Freedom?](https://guidingstarproject.com/do-you-believe-in-reproductive-freedom/) - An often-used phrase that one hears today is "reproductive freedom." It's most often used by those working for women's access to contraceptives and abortion. New Feminists certainly don't wish that women have no freedom to choose when or who they will marry and we also feel that the ability to plan one's family-size is good. - [Mapping Our Births](https://guidingstarproject.com/mapping-our-births/) - We are excited to feature Guest Blogger, Peg Conway, with her debut piece for The Guiding Star Project, Mapping Our Births! In a sprawling slum outside Nairobi, Kenya, activist cartographers use hand-held GPS devices to put this otherwise undocumented city on the map; they manually enter landmarks like informal schools, storefront churches, and broken manholes. - [As Long As They're Healthy...](https://guidingstarproject.com/as-long-as-theyre-healthy/) - When I was growing up in the 90's, before ultrasound and gender revelations became the standard, I have vivid memories of conversations about Boy or Girl, and the automated responses that followed. "Are you hoping for a boy or girl?" One would ask an expectant mother. "I don't care," she would reply, "As long as - [Lessons From My Daughter](https://guidingstarproject.com/lessons-from-my-daughter/) - I did not know how much having a daughter would change me. I was always secretly terrified of having a daughter. I have two younger brothers, and I knew boys. I understood boys. I struggled a bit with female friendships growing up, and I witnessed firsthand the complexity of the relationships between my mom and - [NaPro Technology: Hope For Women Struggling With Infertility](https://guidingstarproject.com/napro-technology-hope-for-women-struggling-with-infertility/) - A woman’s fertility is a sacred thing- something about the ability to create and grow another human being makes us feel empowered, and is often viewed as the height of femininity. But many women often end up facing struggles with their own fertility, making them feel like less of a woman, though in actuality it - [My Top 5 Breastfeeding Moments](https://guidingstarproject.com/my-top-5-breastfeeding-moments/) - It's World Breastfeeding Week, a week set aside to encourage breastfeeding in expectant mothers and show support for those who are currently nursing their children. I have been breastfeeding my children pretty much for the last seven years. There were a couple small breaks when I weaned my toddlers to get ready for the birth - [Breastfeeding Is Hard](https://guidingstarproject.com/breastfeeding-is-hard/) - Breastfeeding is hard. Yep. I said it. I have nursed all my children, and I am committed to nursing any future children, but it is hard. Sometimes it seems that those of us that are able to nurse our babies either forget to mention this, or don’t like to tell new moms it is hard. - [Why Are We So Afraid?](https://guidingstarproject.com/why-are-we-so-afraid/) - Before I even begin this article, let me warn you that there will be more questions than answers here. Even so, the questions need to be asked; the conversations need to begin. Why are women so fearful of childbirth? So much so that for many the thought of natural childbirth these days (without pain medication - [What Else Have We Lost?](https://guidingstarproject.com/what-else-have-we-lost/) - Posts I think it's fair to say that this culture has issues when it comes to women's bodies. For example, babies who are breastfed have lower risk of allergies, diarrhea, constipation, ear infections, upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, reflux, obesity, asthma, SIDS, multiple sclerosis, leukemia, and heart disease. The reaction that lots - ["There's Only ONE Mom!"](https://guidingstarproject.com/theres-only-one-mom/) - Ahhhhh . . . do you hear that? The sound of . . . well, not silence, exactly. I am currently typing this in the midst of seven kids five and under thundering up and down the stairs in a rather intense game of hide and seek. Though technically, the one month old and the - [Why Pace Your Family Naturally?](https://guidingstarproject.com/why-pace-your-family-naturally/) - I'll tell you, now that my husband and I have a daughter and a son, we get this a lot: Oh, you got your two! Your bookends. Well, you can be done now. I shrug, laugh, smile, and make a vague comment about being open to a big family. Many of our friends come from - [They Call It The Curse](https://guidingstarproject.com/they-call-it-the-curse/) - They call it, “The Curse.” It’s a subject that makes us squirm in our seats or feel embarrassed in the grocery check-out line. Most of us are not comfortable with the subject of menstruation. We certainly don’t have positive associations with the event. It’s gross. Embarrassing. Something we don’t want anyone to know about. Uncomfortable - [Birth Stories are My Writing Kryptonite](https://guidingstarproject.com/birth-stories-are-my-writing-kryptonite/) - In the midst of all the craziness a home with three children under four can bring, I seriously cannot find the words to tell you how happy I am to not be pregnant. No, really. I have sat down at least five times to write this post and every time it results in a sentence - [BREAKING NEWS: Plan B Will Now Be Available to Girls Without Age Limits or Prescription](https://guidingstarproject.com/breaking-news-plan-b-will-now-be-available-to-girls-without-age-limits-or-prescription/) - Plan B will be sold to any aged woman or girl, without prescription, in the coming months. The federal government will comply with a federal court order to lift restrictions and instruct the drug’s manufacturer to take steps toward this end. The Justice Department stated in a letter to the Second Circuit’s court of appeals - [Can Pro-Life Groups Work Together...A Year Later](https://guidingstarproject.com/work-together-a-year-later/) - Last July our blog featured a post titled Can Pro-Life Groups Work Together? An excerpt: I really don’t want to come across as mean-spirited towards some of the most passionate and (usually) loving people you’ll ever meet, but over these past five years I’ve witnessed disheartening and unnecessary passive aggressive conflict on a level of - [Nourishing Our Family, Starting with the Body](https://guidingstarproject.com/nourishing-our-family-starting-with-the-body/) - We mothers are at the heart of the culture of life. Yet, often times, it is hard enough to keep our families nourished physically, much less spiritually and emotionally. What we eat is what we are on a physical level. Good food means better energy and better health, so that we can receive the graces - [A Disappearing Future](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-disappearing-future/) - Don't it always seem to go. That you don't know what you've got 'til its gone... "Puo". The elderly woman stands up from her seat as I enter the crowded bus. "No. No. Ecco." A younger woman gets up from next to her and allows the elderly woman to remain seated. I am 7 months pregnant, - [Girls!](https://guidingstarproject.com/girls/) - Some women are dripping with diamonds, Some women are dripping with pearls Lucky me! Lucky me! Look at what I'm dripping with: Little girls! I have three girls. And when I say girls, I mean GIRLS. With the exception of my middle one- she is a bit of a "tomboy" like I was when I - [To Empty Oneself - a tribute to the infinite of Motherhood](https://guidingstarproject.com/to-empty-oneself-a-tribute-to-the-infinite-of-motherhood/) - Right off the bat, I must confess that I am writing this at 37 weeks pregnant and racked in pain. I had every intention of writing an eloquent reflection on mothers, as we have just celebrated Mother’s Day, and add my knowledge to my experience and pull it together to witness to the great power - [Not a "Real Baby"](https://guidingstarproject.com/not-a-real-baby/) - This theme has been cropping up since we first heard the devastating news from the ultrasound technician, "The baby's heart isn't beating." At that moment I would have traded my own heart if it meant my baby's might begin to beat again. But that was not to happen. As the tears rolled down my face - [To Feed A Child](https://guidingstarproject.com/to-feed-a-child/) - "No one here is going to tell you that you can't breastfeed your baby, but here are your daughter's test results," the doctor told me as I looked longingly at my four week old daughter. She had an IV on the top of her head, was just taken off of oxygen support, and was being - [GSP Reacts to Plan B Decision](https://guidingstarproject.com/gsp-reacts-to-plan-b-decision/) - For Immediate Release May 3, 2013 Minneapolis, MN – The Guiding Star Project reacted to the news of the approval by the FDA to allow sales of the “Plan B” Morning-After Pill to girls as young as 15 years old, without a prescription. “We are saddened by this incredibly irresponsible action,” said Laura Ricketts, Executive - [Our Alex](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-alex/) - When I was in my second year of teaching, I had a co-worker come up to me in the hallway and inform me that she had had a dream that I was pregnant, that she was "usually pretty good about knowing these things," and that I should probably take a test. I laughed, and told - [Pursuit of Beauty](https://guidingstarproject.com/persuit-of-beauty/) - It should come as no shock that the prevalent American culture puts a high value on the sexual identity of a woman. How sleek, slender and fierce she looks in order to complete her job or attract a significant other. Well this afternoon I was using Google to try and find something I had watched a few - [The good kinda of gossip](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-good-kinda-of-gossip/) - When I first got married I remember several women, both of my own age and that of my mother's, warning to me to be careful of those "mom groups", or "wife's night out gatherings." They gave a cautionary tale of the tendency many women have when in groups to uncharitably gossip and more specifically to - [My Breast Effort](https://guidingstarproject.com/my-breast-effort/) - I love breastfeeding. It might be one of my favorite wonders of the female body. Being able to nourish my baby, with my body, even though she is on the outside, is awesome. I love the bonding that I get to have with her. And I'm sure you've heard all the arguments on how breastfeeding - [Natural Family Planning...It's a party?!](https://guidingstarproject.com/natural-family-planning-its-a-party/) - The topic of Natural Family Planning is a complex one that is as unique as the couples who choose to use it. For some it's very simple, straightforward, and easy. For others it's a challenge, needing detailed counseling from a trained professional. Regardless, we support and value those who put the time in to educate - [Gosnell Trial Reaction](https://guidingstarproject.com/gosnell-trial-reaction/) - For Immediate Release April 15, 2013 Minneapolis, MN – The Guiding Star Project has been closely watching the Trial of Abortionist Kermit Gosnell. Leah Jacobson, Founder of the Guiding Star Project had this to say, "We here at Guiding Star are dismayed to hear the details of the Gosnell case and the tragic deaths that - [A Sexual Assault Conversation (Part Two)](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-sexual-assault-conversation-part-two/) - (To read Part One: please click here!) From the moment sexual assault becomes a part of your life, the process of healing begins. Often, a survivor finds the process similar to grieving a loved one: in the same way that the loss of someone close to you causes you to mourn while life moves on, - [Let’s Set the Record Straight: Myths and Truths about New Feminism](https://guidingstarproject.com/lets-set-the-record-straight-myths-and-truths-about-new-feminism/) - This article was originally posted on the New Feminism Rising blog by Theresa Martin. With her permission we have reprinted it here: I read a very disturbing article recently on the “feminist” backlash against “conservative” women in politics. It was chocked-full of hateful slurs and name-calling. However, what was actually most disturbing to me (because honestly sticks - [Accepting Help](https://guidingstarproject.com/accepting-help/) - As a high-energy, type-A, go-getter who comes from a family of high-energy, type-A go-getters, I have always struggled with pride and perfectionism. Pride in the fact that I am (under normal circumstances) able to accomplish a million things in a day and perfectionism in that they will generally be done correctly and in a very - [Expectations](https://guidingstarproject.com/expectations/) - In October 2005, my husband and I went to the doctor to see our very first baby for the very first time. It was a routine 20 week ultrasound and we were so excited to catch a glimpse of the little person who was growing inside of me. We watched the screen closely, not knowing - [Our Call to Advocacy](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-call-to-advocacy/) - We are all advocates in some way. We may not view ourselves as such, but in our words and actions we advocate. We strive to advocate for good: caring and loving others, doing the right thing, and speaking out against injustice. Sometimes we forget that a lack of action or words speaks volumes: perhaps in - [Bella Figura - Help! Please, Make It Stop!](https://guidingstarproject.com/bella-figura-help-please-make-it-stop/) - The little alarm bells started tripping off for me at my first appointment to the doctor during this pregnancy. There was a rather large poster in the elevator and the same one in the waiting room of the women’s floor of the clinic. And yet, again, there was the same poster in the exam room. - [Checkmate on Choice](https://guidingstarproject.com/checkmate-on-choice/) - If you will, think for a moment about all the controversy and disagreement on the issue of abortion as if it were playing out on a huge chess board. Imagine the opposing sides facing off in a battle to win the decisions of women about what to do in instances of pregnancy; pro-choice and abortion - [Women's History Month](https://guidingstarproject.com/womens-history-month/) - For Immediate Release March 6, 2012 The Guiding Star Project Participates in Women’s History Month Stephens City, VA – The Guiding Star Project is participating in Women’s History Month this year with a “New Feminism Quote Contest” on their Facebook and twitter pages. “We wanted to take advantage of the extra attention that is given - [A Sexual Assault Conversation (Part One)](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-sexual-assault-conversation-part-one/) - It was Thanksgiving my freshmen year of college. After the standard family time, I had plans to spend some time with one of my best friends. He picked me up and we went to his parent’s house so we could catch up. He told me how his classes were going and all about his most - [The Single Voice](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-single-voice/) - I’ve never done this before. The blogging world is totally new to me and though I've wanted to support The Guiding Star Project by writing about my personal experiences I never thought I’d actually do it. Why, you ask? Because I’m single. No, that’s not a billboard statement in hopes of getting a husband or even - [Self-Worth](https://guidingstarproject.com/self-worth/) - In a fit of empty-nesting/surviving another Minnesota winter, my mother has been cleaning and organizing old pictures. To say she has come across some humdingers would be an understatement. We have been enjoying looking back at hysterical pictures of my younger brother and I dressed in matching, homemade ensembles, as well as 80’s fashions. Nothing - ["Wombing"](https://guidingstarproject.com/wombing/) - The title here may have led you to believe that I am going to be writing about pregnancy. I am not. I am, however going to endeavor to discuss with you an aspect of femininity that my husband and I have dubbed “wombing.” It is the female disposition towards inclusivity. “Interiority” is the bigger more technical - [A Generation Later: Heartbreaking Consequences of the Sexual Revolution](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-generation-later-heartbreaking-consequences-of-the-sexual-revolution/) - Often times the “Sexual Revolution” of the 1960s is hailed as a time of liberation and independence for all, but in particular for women. Freed of the “shackles” of the consequences of sexual encounters, the hormonal contraception (aka “the pill”) gave women the opportunity to “have sex like men” without being bound or hindered by - [March for Life - An Encouraging Picture](https://guidingstarproject.com/march-for-life-an-encouraging-picture/) - The Guiding Star Project was very pleased to be able to participate in the March for Life this year. It was a chilly and snowy day in Washington, D.C. full of meetings and speakers and conventions and of course the March itself. Conservative estimates said it was attended by over 500,00 people. According to Eternal - [Album Debut Concert a Beautiful and Entertaining Evening!](https://guidingstarproject.com/album-debut-concert-a-beautiful-and-entertaining-evening/) - On January 25th, 2013 we were so blessed to debut Danielle Rose’s newest musical album Culture of Life. The concert was a sell-out and the crowd that filled the Open Window Theatre in Minneapolis was certainly a special one! Many in attendance have been fans of Danielle’s music for years and eagerly awaited her newest - [The Women of the Ward](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-women-of-the-ward/) - "A woman by her very nature is maternal -- for every woman, whether ... married or unmarried, is called upon to be a biological, psychological or spiritual mother -- she knows intuitively that to give, to nurture, to care for others, to suffer with and for them -- for maternity implies suffering -- is infinitely - [80 Days](https://guidingstarproject.com/80-days/) - As of today, there are 80 days until my third child is due (according to the registry where I entered my ‘To Buy’ list) and I can feel the anxiety bubble rising. I have never been more anxious about delivery than I am with this child. I lost the baby in my first pregnancy at - [Fear: What They Mean When They Say Choice](https://guidingstarproject.com/fear-what-they-mean-when-they-say-choice/) - Fear is a powerful motivator. Fear can lead us to act in ways that we never would have imagined. It can prompt us to do good, but all too often it pushes us to things we will later regret. There are certain types of people who prey on fear. They know how to use fear - [In Memoriam](https://guidingstarproject.com/in-memoriam/) - We received the above clipping from one of our wonderful supporters. We thought it was a thoughtful and thought-provoking response to the approach of the Anniversary of Roe Vs. Wade on January 22nd. The Guiding Star Project would like to encourage others to take similar action in their communities. Below you will find a - [Choosing Life](https://guidingstarproject.com/choosing-life/) - My husband and I are currently expecting our fourth child, due May 1st. I’m just over halfway there, and at that glorious (and oh too short!) point of pregnancy where I am large enough that people aren’t wondering if I’m expecting or just ate too much for lunch, but not yet large enough to be - [Danielle Rose Concert](https://guidingstarproject.com/danielle-rose-concert/) - For Immediate Release December 29, 2012 Minneapolis, MN – The Guiding Star Project is pleased to announce Danielle Rose’s Culture of Life Album Release Concert. The concert will take place on the evening of January 25 th at the Open Window Theatre in Minneapolis. The Concert will showcase Danielle Rose’s New Culture of Life Album - [Living a Life of Gratitude](https://guidingstarproject.com/living-a-life-of-gratitude/) - If you spend any amount of time on facebook or pinterest, you likely saw the someecards card that reads “Black Friday: Because only in America, people trample others for sales exactly one day after being thankful for what they already have.” Though I chuckled when I first read it, I was immediately struck with how - [For Fear](https://guidingstarproject.com/for-fear/) - I have been part of an abortion. I was just a student, still in nursing school, having just completed my OB rotation. The mother was young, like me, but the pregnancy was very much planned. What she didn't plan for were the "fetal anomalies" that the baby had--developing with kidney problems. The staff told me - [In Thanksgiving for My Mom](https://guidingstarproject.com/in-thanksgiving-for-my-mom/) - I have a confession: I am stubborn. It feels good to write it. I am stubborn. The fact that I am stubborn is what made me believe that I truly did not have it in me to stay at home full time if (or when) I had children. I spent most of my formative years - [The Grass-fed, Free-Range Golden Calf](https://guidingstarproject.com/grass-fed-free-range-golden-calf/) - *One of the greatest things that makes our lives easier is the gift of technology. While our female bodies have worked the same way for centuries, technology has given us greater understanding how they work, using natural knowledge to give us answers and clues to the process within. The ability to share information so easily - [Nice to Meet You!](https://guidingstarproject.com/nice-to-meet-you/) - I am excited to introduce myself to you as the new Executive Director of The Guiding Star Project! My name is Laura Ricketts and I hail from the Shenandoah Mountains of Virginia. I am privileged to be a wife and mother to 4 children at home and 3 in Eternity. When not homeschooling and chasing around an - [Unexpected Graces](https://guidingstarproject.com/unexpected-graces/) - I recently had the chance to cross the item “ride 104 miles in a tow truck with my entire family” off of my bucket list. Are you jealous? Oh, it’s not on your bucket list? Truthfully, I can think of few things that sound less enticing. Maybe “fly to Australia with three kids age four - [Pro-Life Feminism](https://guidingstarproject.com/pro-life-feminism/) - I feel like I've been carrying a secret. I've worked hard to create my online "persona." Diligently posting on my blog, commenting on other mommy bloggers sites, taking writing classes, even attending a blogging conference. Waiting and hoping for my big break, the moment when I will make it as a writer. And through it - [Pregnancy and Domestic Violence](https://guidingstarproject.com/pregnancy-and-domestic-violence/) - Sometimes it feels as though to truly comprehend the prevalence of domestic and sexual violence in our nation you have to spend some time as an advocate, or be a survivor. Once you are in the trenches so to speak, not only do you have people you know disclose to you about themselves and their - [Letter to Melinda Gates from an African Woman](https://guidingstarproject.com/letter-to-melinda-gates-from-an-african-woman/) - We put up a few posts on our Facebook page a few months ago when it was announced that billionaire Melinda Gates, wife of Bill Gates, had led the effort to raise $4.6 billion (yes "B" as in BILLION!) to provide contraceptives to African nations. While we as New Feminists know this will ultimately destroy - [I am Woman, LET me Roar!](https://guidingstarproject.com/i-am-woman-let-me-roar/) - Let me begin by saying that I find an amazing beauty and strength in every woman I meet. Whether she agrees with me or not, I appreciate her “feminine genius.” There is some unique and original aspect of her womanhood that just by being herself, it jumps out to the world around her as if to - [Endorsement](https://guidingstarproject.com/endorsement-2/) - If you've ever read Abby Johnson's book unPlanned, you know that many people who begin to work in the abortion industry do so out of a misguided sense of compassion for women in need. They typically have huge hearts and care very deeply about humanity, but have sadly fallen for the lies that abortion and - [“just a mom”](https://guidingstarproject.com/just-a-mom/) - Hello! My name is Amanda. I have been married to my husband Paul for six years, and we have been blessed with three spunk-filled and amazing kids- Mary (4), Augie (3) and Veronica (1). My husband works as a Creative Director for a commercial real estate firm, and I stay at home with our kids, - [Endorsement](https://guidingstarproject.com/endorsement/) - We've been collecting some AHHH-MAZING endorsements these past few weeks! And now that we've shared them with our supporters at our banquet we want to start sharing them with you too. First up is a beautiful tribute from abortion survivor Melissa Ohden. Thank you so much Melissa for this beautiful endorsement! "Imagine a place where - [New Feminism Pregnancy and Birth](https://guidingstarproject.com/new-feminism-pregnancy-and-birth/) - It’s that time for me again. Just recently I started the third trimester of my fourth pregnancy. My family is used to what happens next, and this time around, I’m fully embracing the crazy lady that is starting to emerge. Like many women who feel their bellies expanding daily, I become consumed body and soul - [I dreamed a dream......](https://guidingstarproject.com/i-dreamed-a-dream/) - Once upon a time, I envisioned starting my own holistic women’s center. Not just a birthing center or a doctor’s office, but a comprehensive one-stop-shop for all things womanhood. I pictured free childcare for siblings, health services, including midwives, an extensive library for furthering education, a massage therapist, maybe even a little coffee and tea - [BIG News! GSP and GSD officially affiliate!](https://guidingstarproject.com/big-news-gsp-and-gsd-officially-affiliate/) - The Guiding Star Project officially affiliates with its mother organization, Guiding Star Duluth! Many of you may not realize that The Guiding Star Project actually got it's start in Duluth, MN under another name, Guiding Star Duluth in 2009. If you've read through some of our information or know a little bit of the back - [Finding Femininity](https://guidingstarproject.com/finding-femininity/) - Hello readers, my name is Amanda Castro. I am a Youth Minister at a large rural parish in Southwest Minnesota. I love photography, theology and being a big kid. My husband and I have been married for about 19 months and we are enjoying it greatly. The past four years of my life have been - [My Journey in Advocacy](https://guidingstarproject.com/my-journey-in-advocacy/) - Do you remember the board game Battleship? If Scrabble did not exist, Battleship would be my favorite game. It is beyond exciting to hide behind your board and plot. Unfortunately, I do not allow myself to play this game anymore because the urge to cheat is so strong. *SPOILER ALERT* The trick is to keep - [Onward to Autumn](https://guidingstarproject.com/onward-to-autumn/) - Wow! Can you believe summer is already wrapping up?!? With yellow school buses making their rounds and leaves starting to turn a beautiful bright orange, we know the seasonal change is upon us. With the new season comes some new changes for The Guiding Star Project. We are so excited to highlight a few of - [Can Pro-Life groups work together????](https://guidingstarproject.com/can-pro-life-groups-work-together/) - For those of you who are familiar with the Guiding Star Model you know that good collaboration of separate service providers and organizations is essential to the realization of our mission. We are working to create comprehensive women’s centers that can provide for basically all of the needs of childbearing women and their families. This - [5 Things I’d Rather Have Covered](https://guidingstarproject.com/5-things-id-rather-have-covered/) - Couple of links in this one.......check them all out and you're sure to feel more passionate about the HHS contraception mandate. Our friend Becky over at Reclaiming the Womb.com has given us permission to repost her article on things we'd rather see covered in the new healthcare mandate. We can think of a few more - [There's an App for that](https://guidingstarproject.com/theres-an-app-for-that/) - Gotta love innovations that make motherhood easier (and just plain cool!) Our own Kristin Detloff shares the latest on smartphone apps created with the nursing mama in mind over at CatholicMom.com. Read her latest TechTalk post and then share your age-old tips for breastfeeding success here. Did breastfeeding go easily for you? Was it an empowering - [HHS Mandate](https://guidingstarproject.com/hhs-mandate/) - For Immediate Release April 8, 2013 Virginia – The Guiding Star Project has urged all of its supporters to make their voices heard during the open comment period on the HHS Mandate. The comments close at 11:59pm EST today, April 8, 2013. The Guiding Star Project has used a Social Media Campaign and sent action - [How to find an NFP friendly Doc...](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-to-find-an-nfp-friendly-doc/) - Last year the following NFP doctor “how to” was published by our friend Jess over at NFPworksblog. Since then I have received numerous requests on our NFP forum from young women needing further assistance finding a doctor in their area. As a result our tips have been updated! If you are searching for an NFP - [Believe in your Body](https://guidingstarproject.com/believe-in-your-body/) - A few weeks ago we asked over on ourFacebook page and our friend site Living the Sacrament for you to share reasons why you choose to use natural methods of family planning versus the widely championed artificial birth control being mandated in the controversial Obama Administration's HHS Mandate. We got some wonderfully insightful responses and wanted - [Having our Say....](https://guidingstarproject.com/having-our-say/) - Deadly health risks for women: The unspoken side of the Obama birth control mandate By Jenn Giroux February 14, 2012 Reposted with permission from http://jenngiroux.com/2012/02/14/deadly-health-risks-for-women-the-unspoken-side-of-the-obama-birth-control-mandate/ For far too long there has been an ominous silence across America on arguably the most controversial and devastating issue of the day — birth control. As so often we - [We have a say too.](https://guidingstarproject.com/we-have-a-say-too/) - I am sorry we haven't been posting here in response to the chaos and insanity taking place all around us with the HHS Birth Control Mandate. It has been a month of trying to catch our breath and figure out what exactly many women's groups are asking and demanding the American people support in the - [Pro-Life "Specialists"](https://guidingstarproject.com/pro-life-specialists/) - In a brief exchange via social media this evening, I was reminded why it is so important for those of us in the pro-life movement to keep a bigger picture mentality when looking at abortion and how to change a society that accepts and supports this horrendous practice as a "right". I read a post - [Abortions are NOT a "normal or necessary" part of any woman's fertility](https://guidingstarproject.com/abortions-are-not-a-normal-or-necessary-part-of-any-womans-fertility/) - We were contacted today by one of our friends in Ohio who brought to our attention that the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) is now promoting an ad Campaign sponsored by the local abortion provider Preterm. The movement called “My abortion, My life” seeks to “Help people see abortion for what it is: a - [Supporting our Sisters](https://guidingstarproject.com/supporting-our-sisters/) - New Feminists Encourage NEVER Condemn Other Women Men have known for ages about the power of a woman's words; how their wives can completely demoralize their efforts with a simple raise of the eyebrows and a quick, "Really, dear?". We women instinctively understand how we can use words to manipulate and hurt others if we really want - [Natural Family Planning in a Planned Parenthood World](https://guidingstarproject.com/natural-family-planning-in-a-planned-parenthood-world/) - "We're NOT the Rhythm Method". Really, then what are you?A little while ago I was talking with a woman who teaches sex education in a public high school. Intrigued by what was being taught in teenage health classes and being a strong supporter of New Feminism, I asked if they spent much time teaching about the natural signs - [Thank You & Why Music Matters](https://guidingstarproject.com/thank-you-why-music-matters/) - I can't thank those of you enough who attended or sent along support for the fundraising concert last night! It was such an enjoyable evening and I am so grateful to have such an amazing community to call home and people to call my neighbors and friends. If you weren't able to attend, we'll get - [Danielle Rose Concert, coming soon!](https://guidingstarproject.com/danielle-rose-concert-coming-soon/) - Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to help bring empowering music to our world! The invitations and press releases are out for the upcoming dinner/concert/fundraiser supporting the mission of Guiding Star through the beautiful music of Danielle Rose! The details: October 28th, 2011 Timbermist Event Center, Brainerd, MN Doors open at 6:00pm The event starts at - [What is a "New Feminist"? Part 2](https://guidingstarproject.com/what-is-a-new-feminist-part-2/) - We left off in Part 1, after a short history of Feminism in America, with the question of what a "New Feminist" looks like. I made the argument that the "Feminism" most of us think of when we hear the word, is actually a sharp departure from earlier "feminist" thought and action. Most of us tend to - [proactive, NOT reactive](https://guidingstarproject.com/proactive-not-reactive/) - I am still working on Part 2 to "New Feminists", but I had a thought that I wanted to share sooner than later. So please be patient me with and let me jump topics for a bit here. I promise I will come back to tell you all about what New Feminists look like! And that - [What is a "New Feminist"?](https://guidingstarproject.com/what-is-a-new-feminist/) - The Second Wave of Feminism doesn't have quite as clear of a start date, but many of the ideas and foundational building blocks were already being promoted in society as early as the 1910s-20s. Margaret Sanger was already hard at work bringing birth control to our country; although interestingly, she was never allied with the work of - [When the music changes.....](https://guidingstarproject.com/when-the-music-changes/) - There is an old African proverb that says, " When the music changes, so does the dance.” I believe that this is true, and that it extends beyond just music and dancing. When the heart of a culture is changed, so are the actions that follow. Because of this, it is with great joy that I share the - [A little ditty about breastfeeding....](https://guidingstarproject.com/a-little-ditty-about-breastfeeding/) - In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7, I thought I would devote a little time to singing the praises of nursing our babies. Like I mentioned in an earlier posting about the many different issues that make up a truly pro-life (not just anti-abortion) position, breastfeeding DOES fall within the bigger picture of recognizing how amazing our - [Straight from Abby's blog](https://guidingstarproject.com/straight-from-abbys-blog/) - I stole the quotation you are about to read from Abby Johnson's latest blog, which you can find here. If you don't know who Abby is, do yourself a favor and pick up her book, UnPlanned. Abby is a brave lady who is willing to throw herself out under the bus of public opinion just - [How is THIS "pro-life"?](https://guidingstarproject.com/how-is-this-pro-life/) - I sometimes get questions from people asking how things like fertility and breastfeeding are pro-life issues. Many people say there is little, or no connection between these things and the main issues they consider to be in the pro-life arena; abortion, euthanasia, and embryonic stem cell research. To which I reply, "Oh contraire!" It is my firm belief - [AAFCP, here we come!](https://guidingstarproject.com/aafcp-here-we-come/) - The Guiding Star Project is excited to officially kick off our vision casting and networking campaign at the national convention for the American Academy of FertilityCare Professionals, taking place this week in Duluth, MN. More information about the convention can be found here. We are so excited to make our debut at a convention focused - [Menstrual Suppression](https://guidingstarproject.com/menstrual-suppression/) - "Although a woman taking a menstrual suppression pill will take a few dozen more active hormone pills over the course of a year than a woman taking the 21-day version of the pill, there's probably [emphasis added]no meaningful increased health risk. The small risks of stroke and blood clots associated with traditional oral contraceptives - - [Here we go!](https://guidingstarproject.com/unite/) - As we prepare to launch this vision-casting initiative for Guiding Star Centers, I'm reminded of the suffragists and the incredible odds that stood against them as they began their crusade for recognition of women's dignity. Their goal took roughly 50 years to achieve, but I am hopeful that with the advent of the internet and - [Naturally Beautiful Feminism](https://guidingstarproject.com/sample-news-post/) - The women many of us think of when we hear the word "feminists" are the young, college educated women of the 1960's and 70's; burning bras and embracing a "free love" approach to their bodies and sexuality. This Second Wave of Feminism is what most of us recall when we hear the word. Now there are a lot of ## Pages - [The Guiding Star Project](https://guidingstarproject.com/) - We equip women to fearlessly embrace fertility, childbirth, breastfeeding, and motherhood through Wholistic Women’s Healthcare©, education, and community. - [Guiding Star Cycle Show Workshop](https://guidingstarproject.com/guiding-star-cycle-show/) - Engaging age-appropriate puberty & fertility education workshop designed for girls ages 9–12 to help them understand and embrace their developing female bodies. - [Wholistic Women’s Wellness Program](https://guidingstarproject.com/wholistic-womens-wellness-program/) - Tired of Being Told “Everything Looks Normal”?So are we—You deserve real care that sees the whole you. BOOK A CLARITY CALL TODAYBOOK A CLARITY CALL TODAYSTART MY CARESTART MY CARETired of Being Told “Everything Looks Normal”?So are we—You deserve real care that sees the whole you. REGISTER TO LEARN MOREREGISTER TO LEARN MORETrue whole-woman care - [Find Care Near Me](https://guidingstarproject.com/find-care-near-me/) - Our Guiding Star CentersFLORIDAGuiding Star Tampa Bay Birth & Wellness Center IOWAGuiding Star Cedar ValleyGuiding Star MarshalltownGuiding Star Siouxland MINNESOTAGuiding Star WakotaGuiding Star Crosby—Home to GS National(website coming soon) NEW: Telemedicine Services for Minnesota Residents TEXAS & NEW MEXICOGuiding Star Southwest(Includes El Paso & Las Cruces Centers) We have a bold vision to bring Guiding - [Guiding Star Magazine](https://guidingstarproject.com/guiding-star-magazine/) - Fearlessly Female. Wholistically Pro-Life. Always EmpoweringA bold voice for women’s dignity, feminine design, and true healthcare—every stage, every story, every issue. View Digital Magazine Guiding Star Magazine is our beautifully designed quarterly publication that champions a bold and life-affirming vision for womanhood. Rooted in our commitment to Wholistic Women’s Healthcare©, each issue invites you to - [Guiding Star Gala](https://guidingstarproject.com/gala-evening/) - DECEMBER 12, 2025 CROSSLAKE, MINNESOTA GET TICKETS NOWTHIS EVENT WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY OUR SPONSORS—THANK YOU!BECOME A GALA SPONSORBECOME A GALA SPONSORJoin us for a Special Mass with…Bishop FeltonWe invite you to begin the evening with us in prayer, remembrance, and hope by joining us for a special mass for the Unborn, in honoring the - [Read Our Blog](https://guidingstarproject.com/read-our-blog/) - Guiding Star Blog Real Girl PowerMargaret Schay March 19, 2026 From the Inside Out: A Former Planned Parenthood Director Speaks Out on What Women DeserveThe Guiding Star Project June 15, 2025 A Weekend of Wonder: How Guiding Star Is Transforming Fertility Awareness and Puberty Education in the U.S.The Guiding Star Project May 28, 2025 Make - [Cycle Registration](https://guidingstarproject.com/cycle-registration/) - [Our Team](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-team/) - National Project StaffClick each staff members image to read their bio. Leah A. JacobsonCEO + FOUNDER Lisa CanningGS TAMPA BAY LIAISON Sarah WardSENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angela ReimerEXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Kari BeadnerNATIONAL CYCLE SHOW COORDINATOR OUR TEAM Board of DirectorsClick each board members image to read their bio. Patricia de Lara SmithTREASURER Mary FerrarelliSECRETARY Teresa KenneyBOARD MEMBER - [Product Partnerships](https://guidingstarproject.com/product-partnerships/) - Product PartnershipsAt Guiding Star, we believe in working together to create a culture that honors women, cherishes families, and celebrates life. That’s why we form product partnerships with companies who share our values and mission. By collaborating with like-minded organizations, we not only offer resources that truly support women and families, but we also strengthen - [Magazine Ad Sponsor Opportunities](https://guidingstarproject.com/magazine-ad-sponsors/) - [Info session Thank you WP](https://guidingstarproject.com/thank-you/) - Thank You for Registering!You’re officially registered for our Wholistic Women’s Wellness Info Session.We can’t wait to meet you and share how our team is transforming women’s healthcare. Next StepsCheck your email for a confirmation message with your Zoom link and session details.If you don’t see it within a few minutes, please check your spam or - [Our Four Core Services](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-model-of-care/) - Through Wholistic Women’s Healthcare© solutions, education, and community—we equip women to fearlessly embrace fertility, childbirth, breastfeeding, and motherhood. INTRODUCING A proactive approach to women’s healthcare that values motherhood and life Available exclusively at Guiding Star Centers nationwide FIND CARE NEAR MEOur Model of Care At Guiding Star, we believe in an integrative model of care - [Cycle Education](https://guidingstarproject.com/cycle-education/) - Not sure how to talk to your daughter about her first period? We’ll help you start the conversation with confidence and care.Not sure how to talk to your daughter about her first period? We’ll help you start the conversation with confidence and care.Discover how to guide her through this important milestone in a way that - [DONATE](https://guidingstarproject.com/donate/) - YOUR SUPPORTS EMPOWERS FEARLESS FUTURES Guiding Star strengthens women, families, and society through education, community, and Wholistic Women’s Healthcare©. Together, we can build a fearless future—because every woman deserves a village to thrive. SUPPORT OUR MISSIONWE ENVISION A FUTURE WHERE NO WOMAN EVER FEARS PREGNANCYWe have been entrusted with an important mission of removing the - [Online Fertility Education with Symptopro](https://guidingstarproject.com/online-fertility-education-with-symptopro/) - Personalized online fertility instruction and education from the comfort of your own home for single women and/or couples REGISTER NOW Learn From the Experts For over 35 years, the SymptoPro© Fertility Education team has been providing quality, effective, personalized fertility charting instruction. They firmly believe that every woman and couple has the right to understand - [What's Going on in My Body Chapter 1 Download](https://guidingstarproject.com/whats-going-on-in-my-body-chapter-1-download/) - Chapter 1 DownloadWhat’s Going On In My Body? Do you remember what it felt like when your body started to change—awkward, confusing, maybe even a little scary? You’re not alone. If… You’re a mom wanting to lovingly prepare your daughter for her first period You’re an educator or youth leader searching for a clear, age-appropriate - [The Fearless Future Podcast](https://guidingstarproject.com/the-fearless-future-podcast/) - The Fearless Future PodcastAt Guiding Star Project, we believe women deserve better care and empower women to be Fearlessly Female. Through Wholistic Women’s Healthcare© solutions, education, and community—we equip women to fearlessly embrace fertility, childbirth, breastfeeding, and motherhood at our physical centers across America! We have so much to say on this topic that we - [Guiding Star Academy DRAFT](https://guidingstarproject.com/guiding-star-academy-draft/) - Are you tired of a health care system that masks women’s symptoms with highly toxic drugs, rather than teaching them to understand their bodies? Do you believe in a type of feminism where a woman embraces her body and feels empowered by her fertility? THE FREE MEMBERSHIP COMMUNITY FOR WOMEN WHO WANT TO CHANGE CONVERSATION - [Education Partners NEW](https://guidingstarproject.com/education-partners-new/) - Partner with us to create a fearless future for every woman in America.PARTNER WITH USDo you desire to share the Guiding Star worldview but are not ready to rebrand or restructure into a full Guiding Star center? This is the solution. We provide everything you need to teach with confidence: 6 cutting-edge curriculums you can teach virtually or - [Form Test](https://guidingstarproject.com/form-test/) - [Family Services](https://guidingstarproject.com/family-services/) - motherhoodandfamily lifeFIND CARE NEAR MEMOTHERHOODandFAMILY LIFEFIND CAREThe Guiding Star Project believes motherhood is a valuable asset to society and honors the daily work and learning of women, men, and children through enriching family support services and support. Drop-In Child Watch Each of our centers provides onsite drop-in child watch for mothers and families receiving services - [Postpartum Services](https://guidingstarproject.com/postpartum-services/) - Breastfeedingandpostpartum careFIND CARE NEAR MEBREASTFEEDINGandPOSTPARTUM CAREFIND CARE Breastfeeding is a healthy, natural biological process, and we empower women by guiding and supporting them as they feed their babies. Each of our Guiding Star Centers offer breastfeeding support, either through the services of a certified lactation support person or through resources to guide women to local - [Pregnancy Services](https://guidingstarproject.com/pregnancy-services/) - PREGNANCY CAREandBIRTH SERVICESFIND CARE NEAR MEPREGNANCY CAREandBIRTH SERVICESFIND CAREPregnancy and childbirth is a beautiful and natural season in a women’s life, a period of transition and reflection as the mother prepares to bring her baby into the world. Here at Guiding Star we believe birth is meant to be a sacred and empowering experience for - [Natural Fertility](https://guidingstarproject.com/natural-fertility/) - Natural FertilityandFamily planningFIND CARE NEAR MENatural FertilityandFamily planningFIND CARE Our Guiding Star Centers honor the natural gift of fertility and the crucial role of motherhood in society. We uphold that fertility is a healthy biological process that women can understand and embrace. Each of our centers empowers women with fertility care services through in-person - [WHW](https://guidingstarproject.com/whw/) - Women’s health WeekUnique program designed for college women to help them discover the truth and goodness of their feminine identities WATCH VIDEO TO LEARN MORE SUPPORT WOMEN’S HEALTH WEEKA woman’s natural body is strong, beautiful, capable, and dignified. Every woman has the right to understand the natural feminine gifts of her body so she can - [FAQs](https://guidingstarproject.com/faqs/) - FAQs Here are The Guiding Star Project’s FAQs and answers. Who is The Guiding Star Project? We are a group of people who uphold Natural Law through the promotion of New Feminism. We believe… In the inherent dignity of every human being beginning with natural conception and ending with natural death; In wholistic© healthcare solutions - [Donation Form](https://guidingstarproject.com/donation-form/) - [Webcast Registration](https://guidingstarproject.com/webcast-registration/) - [fearless-future-conference-replay](https://guidingstarproject.com/fearless-future-conference-replay/) - [Education Partners](https://guidingstarproject.com/education-partners/) - [Guiding Star Project Whitepaper](https://guidingstarproject.com/whitepaper/) - PRESENTING: THE GUIDING STAR PROJECT WHITE PAPERThe Guiding Star White Paper advocates for Wholistic Women’s Healthcare©, a revolutionary, life-affirming model that moves beyond fragmented, siloed care to an integrated approach—combining fertility awareness, midwifery care, breastfeeding support, and restorative reproductive health to honor and support women’s natural design at every stage of life. DOWNLOAD THE WHITEPAPER - [Privacy Policy](https://guidingstarproject.com/privacy-policy/) - Last updated: 06.07.24 The Guiding Star Project (“us”, “we”, or “our”) operates https://guidingstarproject.com/ (the “Site”). This page informs you of our policies regarding the collection, use and disclosure of Personal Information we receive from users of the Site. We use your Personal Information only for providing and improving the Site. By using the Site, you - [Our Story](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-story/) - OUR STORYSeeing the need—finding the solution. SUPPORT OUR VISIONOUR STORYA future where women in America do not fear pregnancy. A vision is born…The Guiding Star Project is a women’s movement with a wholistic feminism worldview that educates and empowers women through a whole-life approach to healthcare that honors their natural female bodies. The vision of - [TEST Donation page](https://guidingstarproject.com/test-donation-page/) - [Donate Form](https://guidingstarproject.com/donate-form/) - At Guiding Star, we help women protect their fertility and identity as mothers through our sisterhood of medical centers.We are so grateful for each and everyone of our Shining Stars who has supported our work. Every time you donate to Guiding Star you empower women and families nationwide through authentic, comprehensive, wholistic, life-affirming care. BECOME A LUMINARY - [Bring A Guiding Star Center Near Me](https://guidingstarproject.com/bring-gsp-near-me/) - Bring a Guiding Star Center Near YouEvery Guiding Star Center contributes to a long-needed cultural shift that affirms the beauty, dignity, and importance of women, mothers and their families within society. We are currently in the process of rolling out an exciting new entity. If you are passionate about changing the cultural narrative surrounding women’s - [Donate Test](https://guidingstarproject.com/donate-test/) - [Women's Health Week Form Thank You](https://guidingstarproject.com/womens-health-week-form-thank-you/) - Thank You!Thank you for your interest in bringing a Women’s Health Week to your campus! We will be in touch to discuss this with you soon. - [Get Involved](https://guidingstarproject.com/get-involved/) - Get Involved As we grow this grassroots movement across this country, we are in need of people to share our vision and support our work. We need people like you to volunteer with Guiding Star. If you are interested in volunteering as a: College intern Community Leader Spokesperson on behalf of Guiding Star Or you - [Volunteer Form Thank You](https://guidingstarproject.com/volunteer-form-thank-you/) - Thank you for your interest in volunteering! We will be in touch soon! - [Donation Confirmation](https://guidingstarproject.com/donation-confirmation/) - [give_receipt] - [Kartra TEST](https://guidingstarproject.com/kartra-test-2/) - [KARTRA TEST](https://guidingstarproject.com/kartra-test/) - [Media Kit](https://guidingstarproject.com/media-kit/) - MediaOur Videos The Guiding Star Project has a collection of informative, helpful videos on YouTube. WATCH OUR VIDEOSMeet Our SpeakersLeah Jacobson speaks on: The History of the “Old” Feminist Movement & the Dawn of “New Feminism” Traditional Feminist Ideologies & their Failings for Modern Women The Language of Women’s Health and the Implications on Authentic Care - [Our Team - OG](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-team-og/) - Board of Directors Mark Severson acting board chair Mark A. Severson is a shareholder attorney in Severson Porter Law, P.A. He is an MSBA Certified Specialist in Real Property Law and has been selected multiple times as a Rising Star on Super Lawyers, a designation earned by no more than 2.5% of attorneys in each state. - [Join the Revolution](https://guidingstarproject.com/join-the-revolution/) - EMBRACE. EMPOWER. ACTIVATE.Join our community of passionate monthly giving partners on a mission to help us ensures every woman knows her fertile female body is meant to be loved, embraced and understood, not something to be feared. GIVE MONTHLYEMBRACE. EMPOWER. ACTIVATE. Join the RevolutionThe Wholistic Feminism Revolution is a passionate group of monthly giving partners - [Cycle Show OG](https://guidingstarproject.com/cycle-show-og/) - Cycle ShowLEARN MORE AND REGISTER YOUR DAUGHTER TO ATTENDWhat is the Cycle Show Workshop? The Cycle Show Workshop is an educational, interactive, multi-media, fertility awareness workshop for young girls, ages 9-12. It is a desirable addition to the standard reproductive health education given in schools; its aim is to equip young girls with the knowledge - [Donate-OG](https://guidingstarproject.com/donate-og/) - DonateRevolutionizing women’s healthcare one woman at a time. Help us expand access to women’s health services nationwide. Your support helps us provide wholistic health care services to women and families by maintaining and opening more Guiding Star Centers nationwide. We are committed to advancing a wholistic feminist worldview and optimizing women’s natural healthcare through our - [Our Story-OG](https://guidingstarproject.com/our-story-og/) - The ProjectWhy We ExistThe Guiding Star Project was born from the conviction that women deserve better than the current standard for mainstream women’s healthcare. We are working to create care centers all across the nation to promote an empowering, wholistic healthcare alternative to the current women’s medical “care” juggernauts. BECAUSE THERE’S A PROBLEM WITH MODERN FEMININE - [Guiding Star Cycle Show FAQ](https://guidingstarproject.com/guiding-star-cycle-show-faq/) - Guiding Star Cycle Show FAQREGISTER FOR CYCLE SHOWHow Do I Know if My Daughter is Ready for the Cycle Show? We believe that every young woman deserves to understand how her body was made so that she can learn to value and respect the beautiful design that is HER! We know that when girls value - [Employment](https://guidingstarproject.com/employment/) - EmploymentAt the Guiding Star Project, we know that our work is much bigger than ourselves. We come to work every day knowing that we are changing the world. Seriously! Our work creating a new norm in women’s health and wellness is changing the way future generations of young women will view themselves and their amazing - [Wholistic Women's Healthcare Resources](https://guidingstarproject.com/wholistic-womens-healthcare-resources/) - Wholistic Women’s Healthcare ResourcesThe Guiding Star Project believes that a Culture of Life encompasses far more than a traditional “pro-life” statement. We’re passionate about empowering women to understand, embrace, and love their natural bodies, and to feel that they have a tribe of supportive women around them through life’s hardest days. If you’re not near - [Infant Loss and Perinatal Support and Care](https://guidingstarproject.com/infant-loss-and-perinatal-support-and-care/) - Infant Loss and Perinatal Support and CareMiscarriage and Stillbirth Losing a child at any time is a deeply personal and difficult time for many women. There are a number of beautiful groups providing loving support to mothers grieving the loss of their child. We see the possibility for Perinatal Hospice care and support to be offered - [Medical Facilities](https://guidingstarproject.com/medical-facilities/) - Medical FacilitiesFinding a doctor that recognizes and honors the beauty of each individual patient and supports all human life is a blessing beyond measure. Thankfully, there are places in our nation committed to employing healthcare workers who uphold the original Hippocratic Oath, which states; “I will prescribe regimens for the good of my patients according - [Luminary Club](https://guidingstarproject.com/luminary-club/) - Luminary Club“All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle” – Saint Francis of Assisi You can be a Luminary! Your monthly membership will allow us to work all across the nation spreading our message of empowerment for women through authentic healthcare and education. It allows us to build a - [Donor Dashboard](https://guidingstarproject.com/donor-dashboard/) - [Donation Failed](https://guidingstarproject.com/donation-failed/) - We're sorry, your donation failed to process. Please try again or contact site support. - [Contact Us](https://guidingstarproject.com/contact-us/) - Contact UsThank you for your message. We will be in touch soon!×There was an error trying to send your message. Please try again later.×SEND MESSAGEWe look forward to connecting with you. PO Box 238, Ironton, MN 56455 contact@theguidingstarproject.com - [Learn](https://guidingstarproject.com/learn/) - LearnWe believe that women are smart and capable of learning new things throughout their entire lifespan. We want to connect you to resources and information that will expand your understanding of your own beautiful body and abilities. Check out our Blog for great articles on all elements of women’s health and wellness. Our YouTube channel - [Endorsements](https://guidingstarproject.com/endorsements/) - Endorsements We are grateful for these exceptional life-affirming endorsements. If you want to add your own words of support for our vision and mission, please feel free to contact us with your endorsement and we’ll add it to the list! The vision of The Guiding Star Project is to honor and empower women by establishing - [Shop](https://guidingstarproject.com/shop/) - [Sample Page](https://guidingstarproject.com/sample-page/) - This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger ## Products - [Baby Onesie](https://guidingstarproject.com/product/baby-onesie/) - "My Mom is Fearlessly Female" Baby Onesie —Because fearlessness starts young Let your little one make a statement before they can even talk. This ultra-soft cotton onesie is as comfy as it is empowering, featuring the bold declaration: “My Mom is Fearlessly Female.” Perfect for the tiny humans of courageous mamas, it’s a sweet and - [Baby Bib](https://guidingstarproject.com/product/baby-bib/) - "My Mom is Fearlessly Female" Baby Bib—Mealtime just got mighty Because boldness starts at the bib! This adorable, soft, and practical baby bib says it all: My Mom is Fearlessly Female. Whether it's peas flying or giggles flowing, this bib stands strong — just like Mom. Made with baby-soft fabric and easy-to-clean material, it's perfect - [Glass Water Bottle](https://guidingstarproject.com/product/glass-water-bottle/) - Sip boldly. Live fearlessly. Our Fearlessly Female 16oz Sipper Glass is sleek, durable, and ready for whatever you’re drinking. Choose classic or upgrade with a bamboo lid + straw. BPA-free, FDA certified, and planet-friendly. Every glass fuels the Guiding Star Project, championing Wholistic Women's Healthcare©. Hydrate with purpose and empower fearless women with every sip. .: One - [Insulated Water Bottle—40oz](https://guidingstarproject.com/product/insulated-water-bottle/) - Fearlessly Female 40 oz Insulated Water Bottle —Hydration with a mission Fuel your fearless with every sip.Our 40oz Fearlessly Female Maxi Cup is the ultimate sidekick for women on the move. From sunrise hikes to late-night study sessions, this powerhouse tumbler keeps your drink perfectly hot or cold for hours—because bold women don’t slow down. - [Women’s Slim Fit T-shirt](https://guidingstarproject.com/product/womens-slim-fit-t-shirt/) - Fearlessly Female Slim Fit Tee Limited Sizes Left (S & XS Only!) Our Fearlessly Female slim fit tee is more than just a shirt — it's a declaration. Made from ultra-soft cotton and tailored for a flattering, feminine fit, this tee empowers you to move through the world boldly, beautifully, and unapologetically. Perfect for layering ## Fusion Elements - [Cycle Show Gala Kartra page](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/cycle-show-gala-kartra-page/) - [Picture overlay](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/picture-overlay/) - [Toggles](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/toggles/) - [education 1](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/education-1/) - [education block 2](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/education-block-2/) - [education block 1](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/education-block-1/) - [Mobile Header Donation Banner](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/mobile-header-donation-banner/) - [Image Left](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/image-left/) - [donate carousel](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/donate-carousel/) - [Our Story Header](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/our-story-header-2/) - OUR STORYSeeing the need—finding the solution - [Our Story Header](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/our-story-header/) - [Service Banner](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/service-banner/) - [Services Mobile Banner](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/services-mobile-banner/) - [Four Core Services](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/four-core-services/) - [Split Row](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/split-row-2/) - [Split Row with Pic](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/split-row-with-pic-2/) - We exist…TO SUPPORT, SERVE, AND CARE FOR WOMEN FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE We provide life-affirming, comprehensive health care for women that honors the biological functions of the female body and mind through every stage of life from pre-pubesence through menopause. LEARN MORE - [Split Row with pic](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/split-row-with-pic/) - [Split row](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/split-row/) - [Social Links 2.0](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/social-links-2-0/) - [Social Media Icons for Mobile](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/social-media-icons-for-mobile/) - [Blog Post Card 793](https://guidingstarproject.com/fusion_element/blog-post-card-793/) - guidingstar July 22, 2026 ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://guidingstarproject.com/category/uncategorized/) - [Latest Thoughts](https://guidingstarproject.com/category/latest-thoughts/) - [pro-life](https://guidingstarproject.com/category/pro-life/) - [Press Release](https://guidingstarproject.com/category/press-release/) - [Breastfeeding](https://guidingstarproject.com/category/breastfeeding/) - [parenthood](https://guidingstarproject.com/category/parenthood/) - [New Feminism](https://guidingstarproject.com/category/new-feminism/) - 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[infant loss](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/infant-loss/) - [pregnancy and infant loss awareness](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/pregnancy-and-infant-loss-awareness/) - [pregnancy and infant loss awareness month](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/pregnancy-and-infant-loss-awareness-month/) - [adoption](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/adoption/) - [family](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/family/) - [national adoption month](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/national-adoption-month/) - [parenthood](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/parenthood/) - [parents](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/parents/) - [Creighton model](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/creighton-model/) - [cycle charting](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/cycle-charting/) - [Marquette method](https://guidingstarproject.com/tag/marquette-method/) ## Product categories - [Fearlessly Female](https://guidingstarproject.com/product-category/fearlessly-female/)