Lala salama is Swahili for "sleep peacefully" and this beautifully illustrated book is a soothing East African lullaby for young children. Lala Salama: A Tanzanian Lullaby is written by Patricia MacLachlan and illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon.

The rich colors of the lush oil paintings complement the peaceful story of a mother and baby throughout their day. I love how the mother carries her baby on her back - while gathering water, working in the fields, and preparing food. Children's stories that are meaningful and portray aware parenting styles are high on my list of good children's literature. 

Through this lush tale, the mother speaks to her baby, telling of the rhythms of the day, and gently soothing her baby to sleep. Stories before bedtime are a wonderful ritual for parents and children to share, and calming lullaby stories such as "Lala Salama: A Tanzanian Lullaby" are a perfect ending to a full day and assist in ensuring sweet dreams for your little one. 

Sweet potatoes! They are so delicious and healthy. One of my most prized grounding root dishes. This is my favorite sweet potato dish which I learned how to make from one of my postpartum doula clients years ago. She was a new mom - famished from breastfeeding her newborn round the clock and eating a restricted diet due to her baby having reflux and food allergies. Her neighbor, a highly esteemed gourmet chef, brought her a bowl of these delicious sweet potatoes which satisfied her intense mama hunger with deeply nourishing roots with a special flavor twist. She was so enamored with them, she saved some for me to try, to attempt to replicate the recipe, so I can share with more hungry postpartum mamas. After years of making this recipe, this is my favorite vegan version to satisfy the hunger of anyone - even a new mama! 

2 large sweet potatoes, washed and cubed
3 T. coconut butter
1/2 lime, juiced
1/2 tsp. salt
1/3 c. fresh cilantro, chopped

Simmer the sweet potatoes in just enough water to cover until tender, 15-20 minutes. Drain and add coconut butter, lime juice, and salt. Mash. Add chopped cilantro and stir. Taste. Add more salt or lime juice if desired. Enjoy!!!

For babies 6 months and older, reserve some sweet potatoes and mash plain.