La Leche League of South Bend

Cloth Diaper Event

2012-02-01T06:37:00.000-08:00

There is a new shop in Granger called Orange Tree Gifts and they are offering a cloth diaper event on Sunday, February 12 from 1:00-3:00. Orange Tree Gifts is located at 322 W. Cleveland Road, Granger, IN 46530, W: (574) 247-1926 C: (574) 904-4426

Now More Ways to Follow LLL of South Bend

2012-01-14T19:20:00.000-08:00

Slowly but surely we are joining the modern digital age, we now have a Twitter account!

Join us on there and spread the word:)

Babywearing Meeting!

2012-01-13T17:16:00.000-08:00

This month's La Leche League morning meeting topic is Babywearing!

What do you love about wearing your baby or toddler? What type of carrier have you always wanted to try?

Is there a tricky back or side carry you need demonstrated? Then this meeting is for you! And for the babywearing pros among us, this is an opportunity to share the love and spread your wisdom:) Please bring your carriers and try ours! We'll have ring slings, pouches, Mobys, woven wraps, ergos, and more.

Of course we always have space for your breastfeeding questions, concerns, and successes.

See you this Tuesday, January 17 @10am

Sunnyside Presbyterian Church

115 S. Frances St.

South Bend, IN 46617

Babywearing always makes me a little link-happy--check these out if you get the chance!

Here are some fabulous photos of babywearing through the ages and across the world: http://9davids.blogspot.com/2011/02/babywearing-through-ages.html

And a fabulous babywearing modern dance from France--watch all the way through if you want to be totally impressed by these mamas dancing while breastfeeding! http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xdwcqk_matern-elles_creation

I can never get enough of babywearing daddies: http://www.drmomma.org/2010/06/real-men-wear-babies.html

And here's our little album on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.433083906766.210510.139461811766&type=3

Holiday Party!

2011-12-16T11:59:00.000-08:00

We hope you'll join us for this month's morning meeting--our annual Holiday Party! Mamas, nursing and weaned babies and children are all welcome to visit, eat, and play. Leaders and big kids will help us make art projects suitable for eating and/or gifting. We will even have a project for the tiniest babies among us.

There will be La Leche Leaders and experienced Mamas aplenty, ready to discuss breastfeeding questions and concerns as well.

Come celebrate with us!

10am, Tuesday, December 20

Sunnyside Presbyterian Church

115 S. Frances St.

South Bend, IN 46617

Let's Talk Holidays!

2011-11-11T18:12:00.000-08:00

This week we'll share our ideas about dealing with the holidays as parents of young ones. Do you have tips for fielding family questions/opinions about parenting and breastfeeding choices? Traveling with babies and children? Keeping ourselves and our kids healthy in the midst of cookies and germs? Trying to maintain some semblance of routine amongst the craziness?

Of course we will always have time for concerns you might have and insights you'd like to share, along with general chatting, support, and library perusal.

We're looking forward to seeing you at 10am Tuesday, November 15

Sunnyside Presbyterian Church

115 S. Frances St.

South Bend, IN 46617

October's Morning Meeting

2011-10-14T19:13:00.001-07:00

This week we are going to talk about Birth.

How did your birth experience(s) affect breastfeeding?

What would you change?

What would you recommend to other mothers?

Bring ideas of local resources, supportive ears, and open minds as we come together to share our perspectives on this powerful topic.

As always, we will have room for your breastfeeding questions, concerns, and successes!

We're looking forward to seeing you at 10am Tuesday, October 18

Sunnyside Presbyterian Church

115 S. Frances St.

South Bend, IN 46617

September's Morning Meeting-Nutrition!

2011-09-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

Thinking about starting solids? Dealing with a picky toddler or preschooler? Wondering about how best to care for your own nutritional needs as a nursing mama? At this month's morning meeting we'll share ideas for introducing first foods and encouraging nutritious eating for ourselves and for our children. We'll even have food to play with and sample!

One of the statements in the LLL Philosophy is "Good nutrition means eating a well-balanced and varied diet of foods in as close to their natural state as possible." Happily, in addition to being a LLL Leader, Tama is also a nutrition educator, so our morning meeting is a great source of ideas for caring for our babies, our children, and ourselves!

As always, we will of course have room for your breastfeeding questions, concerns, and successes.

We're looking forward to seeing you at 10am Tuesday, September 20

Sunnyside Presbyterian Church

115 S. Frances St.

South Bend, IN 46617

Art Beat Lactation Station!

2011-08-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

This Saturday is Art Beat in downtown South Bend! http://www.artbeatsouthbend.org/ This is a really wonderful event for everybody in the family, and La Leche League and the St. Joseph County Breastfeeding Coalition are making it even more family friendly by offering a space for mamas and babies to nurse. We'll have a private area with comfy chairs, water, toys for toddlers, etc, and we hope you'll all stop by and spread the word to other nursing moms you know! You can find us on the south side of Jefferson Blvd. near St. Joseph Street.

If you would like to volunteer to help staff the booth, that would be fabulous too! Give Tama a call or email if you're interested. She's split the day into manageable shifts--any amount of time you can give would be wonderful.We had to do some coercing to get a booth, so the more of you who come out and visit us the more chance we have of becoming a permanent fixture!

Thank you all for your efforts to make South Bend more nursing friendly!

Toddlers, Pregnancy and Tandem Nursing!

2011-08-12T17:08:00.001-07:00

Is your nursing relationship changing as your baby moves towards (or through) toddlerhood?

Are you thinking about getting pregnant again but aren't sure whether you should wean first?

Wondering about nursing through pregnancy and even continuing to tandem nurse once the new baby is here?

If you are curious about any of these issues, or have experiences to share, please join us at the next LLL morning meeting! And even if these topics aren't relevant to you right now, come enjoy the camaraderie, commiseration and support of other nursing mamas. And we always make space for any other concerns or questions you may have!

LLL on the news!

2011-07-26T19:10:00.001-07:00

Check out our own Anita being interviewed about the breastfeeding doll on the news last night!

http://www.wndu.com/hometop/headlines/Breast-feeding_doll_for_toddlers_stirs_controversy_126140793.html

LLLI | One Amazing Deal!

2011-07-06T15:05:00.000-07:00

LLLI | One Amazing Deal!

2011-06-27T19:53:00.000-07:00

On Friday, June 24th, Afrykayn Moon stood waiting in line for the 11:50am 275 SMART Bus from Meijer in Taylor, Michigan (outside Detroit) north to Pontiac. While she waited for the hour long bus ride, Moon quietly nursed her two week old son in a football hold, supported by her Moby Wrap. With her, she had two car seats for the ride, a stroller, and her three year old daughter.

As the SMART bus pulled up, the others waiting in line before her boarded. She approached the bus, and the driver, Darcell, looked at Moon with a puzzled look. "What IS that?!" she asked. "What is that you're holding that way?! I know that's not a baby..." she said to Moon, leaning over for a better look. "Ah... is that a titty?!" Darcell shrieked.

"Yes," Moon replied. "That is my son. I am feeding my son."

"You're going to have to cover that up!" Darcell ordered Moon, who continued to nurse as she helped her three year old onto the bus, and pulled her items aboard.

"You're going to have to cover THAT up!" Darcell repeated two additional times - the order becoming more forceful.

Moon said that she would not cover or stop nursing her baby and offered to give the driver the laws of Michigan which state (Mich. Comp. Laws § 41.181, § 67.1aa and § 117.4i et seq.):
Public nudity laws do not apply to a woman breastfeeding a child.
Federal law also protects Moon and her nursing newborn when they are on property otherwise funded with any federal dollars (Public Law No: 106-58 (Sec. 647) if she and her child are otherwise permitted to be there.

Read the full article at the Peaceful Parenting blog (http://www.drmomma.org/2011/06/detroit-mother-ordered-off-bus-for.html).

If you want to get involved there will be a nurse in or contact the bus company in support of breastfeeding mothers and their children.

Oakland County SMART Bus Terminal Nurse-In

Date: Friday July 1, 2011

Time: 9:00am -12:00pm

Location: Oakland County SMART Bus Terminal

Nurse-In Facebook Event Page

Breatdeeding video from LLL of Canada

2011-06-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

This video is from La Leche League of Canada but it's true no matter where you live:)

Summer Fun With Toddlers

2011-06-22T16:46:00.000-07:00

In case you missed the last morning meeting, Tama shared some great resources with the group for activities to do with toddlers over the summer in South Bend.

Fun With Toddlers

June's morning meeting

2011-06-17T17:03:00.000-07:00

Next week's morning meeting will be about summer fun in Michiana! Local things to do with babies and toddlers, day trips, and tips for making them work your nurslings!

Of course we will always have time for concerns you might have and insights you'd like to share, along with general chatting, support, and library perusal.

See you then!

Summer Reading

2011-06-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

Looking for some good reads for the kids this summer? Check out http://www.in.gov/isdh/17360.htm for a great list of kids books that show breastfeeding as the norm. Lot's of these books can be found at the local libraries:) Enjoy!

First Annual Prenatal Care Educational Conference

2011-05-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

Luncheon Fliernew

Summer Strategies

2011-05-13T16:29:00.001-07:00

Summer is almost upon us, and with it comes looser schedules, late night sunshine, and travel. All of that made for a good time before babies, but now it can complicate our lives. This Tuesday, let's share tips for interrupted sleep routines, sun protection, and well-meaning family/friends questioning our parenting and breastfeeding choices.

Of course we will always have time for concerns you might have and insights you'd like to share, along with general chatting, support, and library perusal.

See you Tuesday!

April's Morning Meeting!

2011-04-16T05:32:00.000-07:00

Did you know that in addition to being an expert on breastfeeding, La Leche League also has great resources on starting solids, toddler eating habits and whole family nutrition? And at the South Bend morning meeting we are especially lucky because Tama is a nutrition educator! So by popular demand, we are going to do another meeting on Starting Solids and Family Nutrition!

Maybe last time your baby was too little for you to be ready to think about solids. Maybe you need a refresher on where your baby or toddler is right now, or maybe you would like to share some ideas for healthy, tasty food for the whole family. Or perhaps you're just looking forward to visiting with all of our wonderful Mamas and Babes! Whatever your reasons, I can't wait to see you all this Tuesday morning!

As always, we will of course have room for your breastfeeding questions, concerns, and successes.

10am Tuesday, April 19

Sunnyside Presbyterian Church

115 S. Frances St.

South Bend, IN 46617

Let's Talk Sleep!

2011-03-13T09:14:00.000-07:00

Daylight Savings Time may provide more evening sunshine, but I think most parents of wee ones agree--it also adds yet more challenges to an already challenging time of day!

This week we will be discussing that precious commodity for all parents--Sleep. There are as many sleep philosophies and set-ups as there are babies. Come share ideas of what has worked for your family, struggles you face, and an open heart for commiseration.

We have several books in the LLL library you may want to check out, including 2 new copies of Dr. McKenna's "Sleeping with Your Baby: A Parent's Guide to Cosleeping, Whether you do it occasionally or every night, do it safely."

We're looking forward to hearing your sleep successes and challenges, as well as your breastfeeding questions, concerns, and successes!

10am Tuesday, March 15

Sunnyside Presbyterian Church

115 S. Frances St.

South Bend, IN 46617

Pretzel Fun!

2011-01-19T17:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all who came out for our first foods/family nutrition meeting!

Here are Tama's pretzel recipe and some photos from this week's meeting.

Whole Grain Soft Pretzels

1 T yeast
1 1/2 cup warm water
1 T honey or sugar
1 t salt
1 cup bread flour
3 cups whole wheat flour

Glaze
1 egg beaten with 1 T water
or
1 t sugar and 1/4 cup warm water

Optional ingredients
3 T oil + 1/2 cup dry milk powder

Optional toppings
coarse salt
sesame seeds
poppy seeds

Dissolve yeast in water with honey in bowl until bubbly. Stir in salt, desired iptional ingredients and 2 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Add remaining flour to make a soft dough. Knead for 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Let rise for 45-60 minutes or until doubled in size. Punch down; divide into 16 equal portions. Roll into 16” long ropes. This is where the family can help! Kids love making “snakes” and have unusual ideas about the pretzels eventual shapes. (Examples: names, initials, or numbers.)

Transfer pretzels, using a wide spatula, to greased or parchment-lined baking sheets. Let rise 20 minutes. Your “artist” can brush glaze on tops and sprinkle with desired toppings. Bake at 400 for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown; remove to racks to cool.

Shaped dough freezes well. To bake, dip frozen pretzels in water, sprinkle with coarse salt and bake for 30 minutes. Frozen baked pretzels can be thawed in a 350 oven for 5-6 minutes.

This is a great snack for your child to share with school friends, especially if s/he has had a hand in making them. It’s a fun group activity too.

Yield: 16 servings

January's Morning Meeting--Solid Foods

2011-01-16T04:44:00.000-08:00

Thinking about starting solids? Dealing with a picky toddler or preschooler? This month's morning meeting will be all about introducing first foods and encouraging nutritious eating as our children grow. We'll even have food to play with and sample:)
Come with questions or experiences to share.
As always, we will have time for any breastfeeding concerns you may have.
Looking forward to seeing you Tuesday at 10am, Sunnyside Church, 115 S. Frances St. South Bend, IN 46617

Tuesday, January 11th

2011-01-10T10:02:00.000-08:00

Don't forget! Tomorrow's meeting is at 7 PM at River Park Branch Library. Drive Safe!

Morning Meeting--It's a Party!

2010-12-18T06:26:00.000-08:00

This week's morning meeting falls on the Winter Solstice, so we thought it would a great excuse for a party! Leaders and big kids will help us make art projects suitable for eating and/or gifting! We will even have a project for the tiniest babies among us. Join us to visit, eat, and play!

There will be La Leche Leaders aplenty, ready to field breastfeeding questions and concerns as well.

Come celebrate with us!

10am, Tuesday, December 21

Sunnyside Presbyterian Church

115 S. Frances Street

South Bend, IN 46617

November's Morning Meeting!

2010-11-15T16:42:00.000-08:00

Join us tomorrow as we share our ideas about dealing with the holidays as parents of young ones. Do you have tips for fielding family questions/opinions about our parenting and breastfeeding choices? Traveling with babies and children? Keeping ourselves and our kids healthy in the midst of cookies and germs? Trying to maintain some semblance of routine amongst the craziness?

Of course we will always have time for concerns you might have and insights you'd like to share, along with general chatting, support, and library perusal.

Under construction UPDATE

2010-10-07T12:48:00.000-07:00

I started to make a few changes to the blog and add some info I think local moms will appreciate. But like any other task to be done with small children, I have been interrupted.

Sorry for any confusion this might cause. It should be done soon and thank you for your patience:)

-Anita

*UPDATE*

The changes have been made and we hope they make the information on here easier to find. If you have any suggestions please send them to lllofsouthbend@gmail.com:)

Global Breastfeeding Challenge in South Bend

2010-09-08T12:40:00.000-07:00

Come join us for some fun and advocacy next month!
Global Breast Feeding Challenge Flyer

Art Beat Lactation Station!

2010-08-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

Are you planning to visit the exhibitions this weekend at Art Beat? There will be a Lactation Station for you in the air conditioned lobby at 217 S. Michigan St.
If you are able and willing to help volunteer at the station then please send us an email at lllofsouthbend@gmail.com
Hope to see you all there!

Art Beat Update

2010-08-04T11:48:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately we just received word that we were not accepted into Art Beat this year:(

World Breastfeeding Week & Art Beat

2010-08-01T20:00:00.000-07:00

La Leche League of South Bend would like photos of you nursing your baby to make a video montage for Art Beat. Please email you photos to: kinglynnmarie@yahoo.com by August 12.

It is World Breastfeeding week August 1-7 - pat yourself on the back for the wonderful gift you are giving your baby!

Meeting Reminder

2010-07-12T08:00:00.001-07:00

Come share your joys and challenges in breastfeeding. How did you adjust to a new baby in the house? If you are expecting please come also. Share your thoughts at the la Leche League Meeting Tuesday evening, July 13 at 7 pm, River Park Branch Library.

Volunteer at the Indiana State Fair

2010-07-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

To celebrate World Breastfeeding Week and Breastfeeding Awareness Month, the Indiana Mothers’ Milk Bank is once again providing Lactation Stations at the Indiana State Fair. We aim to provide a clean, comfortable place for moms to breastfeeding, relax, change their babies, and gather information about current women and infant health issues.

Volunteers will receive free admission to the fair, a t-shirt, and chance to help improve the health of infants and children in our state.

For any questions about volunteering, please email us at StateFairVolunteer@immb.org.

Volunteer Sign Up - Fair 2010

Tine Thevenin

2010-06-24T07:05:00.000-07:00

We mourn the death of La Leche League Leader, Tine Thevenin, aged only 68.
She influenced two generations with her best-selling self-published book, "The Family Bed: An Age Old Concept in Child Rearing." It sold over 150,000 copies and was translated into Dutch and German. In 1993, she came out with a second book on ...child rearing: "Mothering and Fathering: The Gender Differences in Child Rearing."
Her online obituary can be found here.

Meeting Notice

2010-05-10T11:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful mothers! Come join us Tuesday evening at 7 pm at Riverpark branch library to share your breastfeeding and mothering experiences and questions.

View SJCPL Locations in a larger map

Purdue Breastfeeding Survey

2010-03-12T15:32:00.001-08:00

A Purdue University sociologist is recruiting Indiana mothers to take part in a study about breast milk pumping in the workplace.
Associate professor of sociology Elizabeth Hoffman is conducting a study on the issue to better understand the obstacles and challenges that women face. She's seeking mothers who used to pump at work, are currently doing so, started but had to stop, or had planned to pump at work but were unable to do so.
Participants are invited to participate in a 30-minute confidential interview or a 20-minute confidential online survey. Anyone interested in participating in the interview or has questions should contact Hoffmann at 765-496-2225.

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

NDU's Lactation Areas

2010-03-10T11:30:00.001-08:00

The University is pleased to announce the availability of three general lactation areas on campus for faculty, staff, and graduate students to support women balancing their work and study commitments with their needs as mothers of young children. Each campus location offers a quiet, clean, and secure environment for women who need to express breast milk during their time on campus.
Lactation rooms are located in the Hesburgh Library, DeBartolo Hall and Grace Hall. Employees will be able to access the rooms with their Notre Dame ID card. Employees can request lactation room access by visiting http://hr.nd.edu/work-life-balance/lactation-rooms or contact askHR at (574) 631-5900 for additional information.
In most situations, an employee can express her milk during normal meal and break times. However, additional time may be needed and supervisors are encouraged to reasonably flex schedules to allow for these exceptions. If you have any questions, please consult your HR Business Partner.
We look forward to serving you.

Old2Gold Time Again!

2010-03-08T17:38:00.001-08:00

Last year, the South Bend La Leche League volunteered with Old2Gold, the annual “garage sale” of student goods at Notre Dame. Volunteers from local non-profits sort and organize everything from bikes to shoes to lumber and clothes. In return, a portion of the sales goes to each of the organizations based on the number of hours volunteered. Last year, we earned close to $20 per hour!

If you are interested in supporting breastfeeding support and information in our community, please consider supporting your local La Leche League group by volunteering. Here’s how:

This year Old2Gold takes place June 26.
Volunteer training sessions (mandatory) last one hour and take place the week of May 24-27. Registration begins April 19 at http://old2gold.nd.edu. Once there, please indicate that you are volunteering as part of La Leche League.

Volunteers will be placed on work detail according to the preferences stated in their application. You will be contacted by phone or email (your choice) to confirm your work schedule. Once there, you will be asked to sign in and out. Experience indicates that “choice” volunteer jobs go quick, so if you are interested, yet selective in how your time is spent, sign up early.

Updates and reminders will follow. Thank you for supporting your South Bend La Leche League group!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

2010-03-03T12:01:00.001-08:00

We were recently contacted by a Notre Dame student who is looking working on a short film about a single mother.

Quoted from the email:
Our main character, Rosa, is a Mexican-American woman who is independent and strong, and most importantly believes in raising her own baby. A large part of her character is that Rosa insists upon natural breastfeeding as part of a healthy and loving mother-child relationship. As such, there is some simulated breastfeeding in our film and we hope to cast an actual mother and child (preferably of Hispanic background) - we would not show the actual breastfeeding but would suggest it.

If you are interested in being considered for the role of Rosa, please contact Marie Wicht at mwicht@nd.edu or 203-918-5007

Thank you
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

St. Joseph County Breastfeeding Coalition Meeting

2010-02-09T18:50:00.000-08:00

The Group will be discussing the following:

World Breastfeeding Week
Coalition organization
Potential grant opportunites and project ideas

Bring a lunch and a friend!

St. Joseph Count Breastfeeding Coalition Meeting
Location:St. Joseph County WIC 325 N. Lafayette Blvd. South Bend
Time:12:00PM Friday, February 12th

You can RSVP on The SJCBC Facebook page.

The Passing of Viola Lennon, A Founding Mother

2010-01-23T12:46:00.000-08:00

It is with great sadness that we have learned that Viola Lennon, co-Founder of La Leche League International and co-author of The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, passed away peacefully in the Chicago area on Friday, January 22. Service and memorial details will be made available as soon as possible on the LLLI web page.

Viola Lennon was born in 1923. She credits her mother with having the strongest influence on her philosophy of breastfeeding and mothering, saying, “My mother portrayed breastfeeding as an enjoyable experience that brings you close to your baby.”

In 1951, Viola married William (Bill) Lennon with whom she had ten children. Edwina Froehlich, Viola’s friend from college, invited her to a meeting at the home of Mary White’s home in 1956, and she quickly joined the others.

In 1972, Viola took on the important role of Chairman of the LLLI Board of Directors, a position she held for five years. During this time, she helped guide the LLLI Board in the formalization of the policies and procedures for running this growing organization, as well as in defining the organizational philosophy and principles. When LLLI’s finances took a downturn in 1984, Viola spearheaded our “Second Founding” and later became the Director of the LLLI Funding Development Department, a position she held for many years. Vi developed close personal relationships with many generous donors who supported LLLI’s efforts financially and contributed in many ways to the success of the organization.

When she left her staff position as Funding Development Director, she dedicated her time and effort to the expansion of the Alumnae Association, becoming one of its strongest proponents.

Viola says, “Breastfeeding… led me to self-discovery and to a greater appreciation of the full humanity of the babies who were entrusted to me. Each woman needs to trust her own instincts, her own feelings, and her own sense of what will work for her with each baby. Women in the 1950s had forgotten the wisdom of previous generations in relation to breastfeeding. Mothers who tried to breastfeed on their own were almost always destined to fail.” She laughs when she adds, "The neighbors sent their children to watch me breastfeed because they knew the children would not see it anywhere else!”

LLL of South Bend in the Examiner!

2010-01-14T17:26:00.000-08:00

Parenting 101: Where to find breastfeeding support in South Bend

Baby Wearing 101 UPDATE

2010-01-13T10:51:00.000-08:00

Have a baby sling and not sure how to use it? This Monday the 18th at 10:30 we will be meeting at the River Park Branch Library meeting room for demonstrations and help with this sometimes complicated art. We're still waiting for confirmation on the room but we have a back up in case we are rejected, so keep a look out for any changes posted on the blog.
Bring your own sling or try some of the other types that will be there. If you have experience in baby wearing, even if it's only one kind of carrier, please consider joining us to share your techniques:)

*UPDATE* 1/14/10
The River Park Library room has been confirmed. Hope to see you all there!

2010-01-12T16:35:00.000-08:00

LLL Kid Winter Party

2009-12-17T14:20:00.000-08:00

Location: River Park Branch Library
2022 Mishawaka Avenue
South Bend, IN 46615 US
When: Tuesday, December 22, 1:00PM to 3:00PM

There will be games and a craft and some snacks and if you want to bring food you are welcome to do so but please don't feel obligated to do so. We just want to get everyone together to celebrate the season!

RSVP at Evite.com

Meeting Location Changes

2009-12-14T06:55:00.000-08:00

Both the daytime and evening meetings have changed locations. The days and times have stayed the same.
The evening meeting will now be held at the River Park Branch Library and the daytime group will now be at Sunny Side Presbyterian Church

Breastfeeding

Let Us Know What You Think

2009-12-03T06:47:00.000-08:00

Times are changing. We're looking for a new location for the evening meeting. We would also like to evaluate how we can best support local breastfeeding mothers. We have a short survey for local breastfeeding mothers and we look forward to getting your feedback. Follow this link to the survey.

We appreciate you taking the time to answer our questions. We have tried to leave plenty of opportunity for more information to be submitted but if you have other suggestions or questions, please email us at lllofsouthbend@gmail.com.

Going Digital

2009-11-25T06:42:00.000-08:00

New Beginnings has moved to a digital format. Visit this link to see the new look, http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/724fa0ad#/724fa0ad/1

New Morning Meeting Location!

2009-11-23T19:01:00.000-08:00

The morning meeting will be meeting at Sunnyside Presbyterian at 115 S Frances St, 287-1524, have agreed to provide us with monthly meeting space! The first one will be December 15.
The meeting room will be on the lower level accessible by stairs or elevator. Just look for the signs direction you to the room.

View Larger Map

Hope to see you all there!

Nursing Rooms at Shedd Aquarium

2009-11-17T05:33:00.001-08:00

After some renovations at Shedd Aquarium they now offers a nursing room. Until recently the nursing room was designated on the maps and at the door with a logo of a bottle.

One of our local mothers was one of many who contacted the directors of the aquarium and happily they are in the process of changing the bottle logos to the international breastfeeding logo:

Shedd Aquarium is located in Chicago and has regular free community days. You can find out more about their free days and other admisson discounts as well as all the sights to see while you are there at http://www.sheddaquarium.org/discounts.html

Tuesday AM Meeting

2009-11-16T11:37:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow we will be gathering at Krista's home (945 S. 21st St., South Bend, IN 46615):

View Larger Map

Meeting Reminders

2009-11-06T11:14:00.000-08:00

Sorry to anyone who was overloaded with meeting reminder emails from google calendar. I'm not sure what happened to make it mass produce like that but we are working on it and are sorry for bogging down your email boxes.

November's Evening Meeting

2009-11-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

November's Evening Meeting (11/10 at 7PM) will still be at the St Joseph Medical Center in the St Monica Room.

Hope to see you there!

Morning Meeting- Location Change

2009-10-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

This coming Tuesday the morning meeting will not be held at the River Park Branch Library. Instead we will be gathering at Krista's home. For more information call Krista or Tama.
Hope to see you there!

Birth Discussion Event

2009-10-14T17:41:00.000-07:00

Did you know you don’t *have*
to be in a hospital to give birth?

Join the Michiana Birth Professionals group for a panel discussion
BEST BIRTH LOCATION: HOME, HOSPITAL, BIRTH CENTER
the first in a 4-part series of discussions about childbirth options in Michiana

6:30 p.m. (social/networking time starts at 5:45 p.m.)
Saturday, October 24 at the
South Bend Chocolate Cafe, 122 S. Michigan St., South Bend

Some 98 percent of women in the United States give birth in the hospital. But the hospital is only one of several venues where a woman might choose to welcome her new baby. In the Michiana area, many women are choosing home births, and still others are making use of low-intervention birthing centers. Panelists for this forum will include a certified nurse-midwife from the Fairhaven group in Goshen — a group that recently opened the area’s only licensed birth center; a mother and family therapist who chose home births; and doulas, nurses and midwives who work in hospital settings.

Birth professionals, expectant parents, students and anyone interested is invited to attend the discussion forum and hear the benefits and drawbacks of different birth settings.

For more information:
Deborah Allen at 574-274-0898, Deborah.allen@live.com
or Stephanie Price at 574-333-4903, tsjprice@gmail.com

Chili Cook Off For Breastfeeding

2009-10-05T13:20:00.000-07:00

SAVE THE DATE!

October 15^th 2009

KICK OFF

St. Joseph County’s Breastfeeding Coalition

Join fellow breastfeeding advocates for some FRIENDLY COMPETITION and to hear the plan for Indiana to achieve BIG GOALS from our state breastfeeding coordinator, Tina Cardarelli.

5:30 – 6:30 Chili Cook-off. Lactation specialists compete to make the best comfort food since breast milk—chili! You taste, you vote. Just a buck a vote!

6:30—7:00 Do you know what Indiana’s goals are for breastfeeding and how St. Joseph County fits into the plan? Come find out as Tina Cardarelli shares a vision for Indiana!

7:00—7:30 Community Connect. Bring your flyers, business cards, questions, and quests to share with like-minded members of our community.

Memorial’s Innovation Café

(1^st floor of the Navarre building)

For more information contact amydmurray@yahoo.com

Art Beat 2009 Update

2009-09-28T18:11:00.000-07:00

If you didn't make it downtown this past Saturday for Art Beat mark it on your calendar for next year!
We had a great time and the weather was beautiful. Not only was our booth pretty popular but we were surrounded by talented artists selling a large variety of wares. The nearby stage was busy with eclectic music and skilled performers. We all had so much fun and made many notes for next year;)

Art Beat Countdown

2009-09-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

Art Beat is 2 days away!!!!!!
We still have plenty of space for your artistic contributions;) Don't worry about whether or not it's a Rembrandt, we want real pictures of real women breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is a normal and healthy life sustaining art of it's own. Let's share our art with the community!
I am happy collect and return all contributions so give me a call, Anita 289-1589.

*Please make sure it is ready to display (framed or mounted, or whatever is necessary depending on the medium)

Thanks so much & we hope to see you there!

Countdown to Art Beat 2009!

2009-09-14T19:28:00.000-07:00

Art Beat is a little over a week away! Our booth number is 2.19 and will be near Colfax & Sycamore.
We still have lots of planning to do. If you would like to submit art to display or help in some other way please contact us at lllofsouthbend@gmail.com.
Art Beat will be Sept. 26 10am -6pm. Check out more about it at http://www.artbeatsouthbend.org/

Meeting Tonight!

2009-09-08T09:09:00.000-07:00

Don't forget tonight's meeting!

Night Meeting
7 PM- Every Second Tuesday
St. Joseph Medical Center
St Monica Room in the Education Center
801 E. LaSalle Ave

Art Beat 2009

2009-09-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

We just received confirmation that we will have a booth at Art Beat 2009. It's coming up soon and we would love to display your art. If you have something(s) you would like to submit (to be returned to you after the festival) please contact me. Drop me a note on Facebook, email me at craftyhoosiermama@gmail.co

m or call me at 574-289-1589.
Have a great day!

Birth Junkie Movie Night in Elkhart

2009-08-13T06:34:00.000-07:00

Birth Junkie

Complimentary Tea for Expectant Mothers

2009-08-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

Download the pdf file at Event Flyer

2009-08-06T10:09:00.000-07:00

Worldwide Breastfeeding Picnic

Host: Anita Wright
Location: Rose Park
The park is circled by 15th Street on the north and 16th Street on the south with the 1400 block of South West Street bordering the parks east side., Mishawaka, IN View Map
When: Friday, August 7, 2:00pm
Phone: 574-289-1589

Happy Worldwide Breasfeeding Week. To celebrate we will be having a potluck picnic. Bring your family and friends and a dish to share.
There's a playground and Splash Pad so don't forget swim suits for the kids!
Can't wait to see you all!

LLL of South Bend

don't forget tonight's meeting!

2009-07-14T06:33:00.001-07:00

7 PM-St. Joseph Medical Center
St Monica Room in the Education Center
801 E. LaSalle Ave

Enter in the main lower level. Go right of the gift shop and down the education hall. The St Monica Rm is a few doors down on the right ;)

Come Join Us!

2009-05-09T13:04:00.000-07:00

We're now on Facebook!
Join the Facebook Group

Swine Flu Considerations for Pregnant & Breastfeeding Women

2009-05-02T04:09:00.000-07:00

Breastfeeding considerations
Women who are breastfeeding can continue while receiving antivirals.
However, women who are ill with swine influenza A (H1N1) should take
steps to reduce the risk to their infants, such as frequent hand
washing and possibly wearing a mask (see below). The risk for swine
influenza transmission through breast milk is unknown. However,
reports of viremia with seasonal influenza infection are rare.

Efforts to identify the risk for pregnant women from swine influenza A
(H1N1) during 2009 are underway. Enhanced surveillance for
hospitalized patients with swine influenza A (H1N1) has been
initiated. Additional information about swine influenza is available.

THE FULL ARTICLE IS
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinician_pregnant.htm

Happy Earth Day

2009-04-22T17:14:00.000-07:00

Come join us Saturday, April 25th for the Earth Day Festival at Howard Park from 11-3.

Breastfeeding Mothers Give Mother Earth A Hand on Earth Day

Schaumburg, IL (April 2002)--What is the one thing only mothers can do to help reduce landfill waste, preserve valued energy, and help prevent deforestation? Breastfeed their children. As people from around the globe commemorate "Earth Day," human milk remains the ultimate natural renewable resource and perhaps the most overlooked way of helping to create a healthier planet.

Human milk requires no resources for packaging, shipping or disposal. The production and disposal of artificial baby milk products add to our environmental problems by consuming energy and producing waste. The 550 million tins of formula sold in the United States alone placed end to end would circle the earth one and a half times. The production of artificial baby milk in the USA each year produces 86,000 tons of tin and 1,230 tons of paper labels which add substantially to the landfill waste.

Breastfeeding preserves valued energy. No energy is wasted producing human milk the way it is wasted when producing artificial baby milk. Precious fuel is used to transport the ingredients of formula and the baby milk products themselves. Energy is used for sterilizing bottles and refrigerating them.

The environment also pays a price for growing soybeans or raising cattle to produce the artificial baby milk. Clearing land for pasture results in deforestation, which then results in land depletion and soil erosion. Growing soy requires fertilization and irrigation.

Exclusive breastfeeding is a natural child spacer. The contraceptive effect of exclusive and unrestricted breastfeeding offers 98% protection against another pregnancy in the first six months. In many women, continued breastfeeding will postpone return of fertility for a year or longer.

While breastfeeding is a wondrous act of nurturing between a mother and child, it also has an enormous impact on the global ecosystem. Breastfeeding not only grows a healthy mother and child but also grows a healthier planet.

Although we live in a polluted world, scientists agree that human milk is still the very best food to nourish our babies, and it may even protect babies from some of the effects of pollution.

To find out more about why human milk is "green," i.e., the healthiest and most ecologically sound way to nurture babies, or for breastfeeding information and support, contact La Leche League International by visiting our award winning website at www.lalecheleague.org or calling 847-519-7730. Since 1956, La Leche League International has been providing breastfeeding assistance through mother-to-mother support, education and information.
Breast Milk Is Green *

(*Ecological)

It's a natural, renewable resource and is all the baby needs for the first six months of life.

It requires no resources for packaging, shipping or disposal.

No precious energy is wasted producing artificial baby milk and related products.

No land needs to be deforested for pasture or crop production.

It does not create pollution from the manufacturing of human milk
substitutes, bottles, teats, and cans.

It helps space babies by suppressing fertility in the mother.

This message is brought to you by:
La Leche League International
957 N. Plum Grove Road
Schaumburg IL 60173
847-519-7730
Visit us at our award-winning website at www.llli.org

Raising Funds with Old2Gold

2009-03-04T08:17:00.000-08:00

From Old2Gold is the University of Notre Dame’s annual end of year yard sale of items donated by students. 100% of proceeds go to local charities who assist with the sale’s operation.

LLL of South Bend is eligible to earn funds from the sale by helping staff it. LLL earns funds and the volunteers get first peek at the goods;)

The 2009 sale will be held on Saturday, May 23 in Notre Dame Stadium. To find out more about volunteering and sign up go to http://old2gold.nd.edu/info-for-volunteers

Hold the Date!

2009-03-03T19:59:00.000-08:00

La Leche League of South Bend will be hosting a Communications Skills Workshop April 17th-18th. The exact time has not yet been set but please hold the date.

This is a workshop designed to teach empathetic listening skills and how to impart information. This workshop teaches skills which are useful in dealing with children, spouses, friends and in counseling situations. The cost will be $10 and is open to everyone but spots are limited.

More information is one the way so stay tuned...

2009 Indiana Conference

2009-03-03T16:46:00.000-08:00

Registration materials for LLL of Indiana's one day conference on April 25 are now available! Please check them out and RSVP to Susan Para. We look forward to seeing many of you in Avon for this wonderful day of learning and meeting, connecting, and having fun together.

The first is to be viewed online and the second is to be printed.

Registration Booklet 2009 Flat

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Education Brochures & Catalogs la leche league

Registration Booklet 2009 Print

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Brochures & Catalogs marketing data

meeting room update

2009-02-10T07:58:00.000-08:00

Don't forget- tonight is the evening meeting.
Instead of meeting in the St. Monica room we will be in the kitchen demo room. It's in the same hall, you just continue past the St. Monica room, follow the hall to the left and the room is the last door on the right.

tonight's meeting canceled

2009-01-13T08:03:00.000-08:00

Due to weather this evenings meeting will be canceled. If you have and questions or concerns please contact a Leader.
Wishing you all a safe and warm day:)

Evening Meeting

2009-01-12T17:42:00.000-08:00

Tuesday this week is our evening meeting. The weather has been kicking it up a notch so keep checking the blog for any cancellations.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-01-06T19:50:00.000-08:00

Hello & Happy New Year,
As we start a new year we have a new flyer with our meeting times and new locations:) Our daytime group has moved back to the freshly renovated River Park Branch Library.
Check out the blog for announcements of events to come. We have a few ideas brewing... :) We hope to see you soon!

La Leche League of South Bend

Morning Meeting Update

2008-09-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

We will be able to have the AM meeting next week at River Park Methodist at 10:00am.
They are located at 920 S 23rd St on the corner of Mishawaka Ave and 23rd.
[http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&ie=UTF8om=1&q=920+S.+23rd+Street%2C+South+Bend+IN+46615]
There is a parking lot in back.
We will be discussing food: introducing solids, healthy toddler treats and family nutrition. Food provided to taste. LLL Cookbooks available to order.

Meetings Location Change Notice

2008-09-04T12:46:00.001-07:00

We have a new location for the monthly evening La Leche League meeting.
We will now be meeting at the St Monica Room in St Joseph's Regional Medical Center. Enter at the first floor main entrance and ask at the information desk for directions to the room.

View Larger Map

September Morning Meeting Notice

2008-07-25T16:18:00.000-07:00

We just received word that the Tutt Branch Library will be closing September 1st for remodeling and will not be reopening till sometime in 2009.
We are working on finding a new location so keep checking back for updates.

Sleep and Fatigue Survey

2008-07-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

Drs. Kathleen Kendall-Tackett and Thomas Hale are researching mothers' sleep and fatigue, and invite mothers with babies under 12 mos. old to take their survey. They would like to include breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding women, and women of all ethnicities and income levels. The survey takes 20-30 min. and is completely confidential. It has been approved by the Institutional Review Board at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas.
The link for the survey is:
http://neonatal.ttuhsc.edu/lact

The researchers hope to document:

Where and how much do babies sleep?
Are mothers who breastfeed and co-sleep more or less tired than mothers who don’t?
Are mothers telling their friends, relatives and health care providers where their babies sleep?
Are there ethnic group differences in where babies sleep?
What is the role of depression, psychological trauma and difficult birth in mothers’ ongoing daytime fatigue?

www.GraniteScientific.com
www.BreastfeedingMadeSimple.com

A Letter from LLLI- Edwina Froehlich

2008-06-08T08:39:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

It is with the deepest sadness that we share with you that Edwina Froehlich, co-Founder of La Leche League International, passed away on June 8, 2008 at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights, Illinois, USA, after suffering a stroke on May 25. Edwina is survived by her three sons, three daughters-in-law and nine grandchildren as well as her many friends and the organization she helped found.

Funeral and memorial arrangements are pending. Please visit www.llli.org/edwina.html for more information and to leave a message at the online memorial to Edwina.

As soon as you are able, please share this message with Leaders who may not have email.

Sincerely,

Jane Tuttle, Chairman of the Board

Barbara Emanuel, Executive Director

Nipple Cream Warning

2008-05-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Food and Drug Administration on Friday warned women not to use or purchase Mommy's Bliss Nipple Cream, marketed by MOM Enterprises Inc. of San Rafael, California.

The cream, promoted to nursing mothers to help soothe dry or cracked nipples, contains ingredients that may cause respiratory distress, vomiting and diarrhea in infants, the agency said.

The potentially harmful ingredients in the cream are chlorphenesin and phenoxyethanol.

The full article can be read at http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/05/23/fda.nipple.cream.ap/index.html

Bill SB 219 Has Passed!

2008-02-21T04:56:00.000-08:00

Good News. SB 219 – lactation support in the workplace passed the full House on 3rd (and final) reading by a vote of 90 – 3!! It’s now off to the Governor for his signature and will then become law.

You can find out more about this bill here.

Tips for Breastfeeding Through the Holidays

2007-12-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

By Sherri Hedberg, IBCLC

The holidays are a joyful time, but they also bring their share of stress. When you add a nursing baby to the list of things to do, especially if this is your first holiday with your new baby, it can bring some special challenges. Below are some tips that may help!

1. Don't forget to nurse the baby. This may sound like a very funny statement, but it is not uncommon. With all the extra activity, both mom and baby may get distracted and miss an occasional nursing. Especially when traveling, you need to be sure that your baby isn't going too long between nursings. The reason that this is important is that it can increase your risk for getting a plugged duct or a breast infection. So, try to stay as close as possible to your regular nursing pattern.

2. Mom, eat well! Those holiday treats may look yummy, but be sure that you eat a meal first! You do not have to follow a strict diet to breastfeed, but you still need good food for energy! Also, be sure that you are drinking plenty of fluids and watch your caffeine intake. If you decide to partake in some holiday cheer, a drink or two will not harm your nursing baby.

3. Rest. . . Make sure that you are getting your sleep! We already know that we can survive on a couple hours sleep from the newborn days - but staying up to wrap presents may not be a good choice. If you can nap with your baby during the day, take advantage of it.

4. Watch your baby's cues. If he becomes fussy, sneak away to a quiet room for some mommy-time. If you are in a new place and your baby is having problems relaxing, consider taking a warm bath or shower together.

5. Plan around your baby's naptimes. Now that you are a mom, your family must take priority when planning holiday events. With a little preparation, you can participate in the fun - and with a happy and rested baby.

6. If you notice any problem with breastfeeding, call for help quickly. If you are away from home, call the La Leche League hotline number. 1-800-LA-LECHE LLL Leaders staff this phone line 24 hours a day - even during the holidays.

7. Have fun and enjoy your baby!

December PM meeting cancelled

2007-12-11T15:29:00.000-08:00

All St. Joseph County Public Library Locations are closed today (Tuesday Dec 11th), due to weather.

The American Center for Cancer Research on Breastfeeding

2007-11-08T05:20:00.000-08:00

The American Center for Cancer Research has just released the new study on diet and cancer and includes specific recommendations to breastfeed--and be breastfed!

The breastfeeding summary:

BREASTFEEDING
Mothers to breastfeed; children to be breastfed!

PUBLIC HEALTH GOAL
The majority of mothers to breastfeed exclusively, for six months

PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION
Aim to breastfeed infants exclusively2 up to six months and continue with complementary feeding thereafter3
1 Breastfeeding protects both mother and child
2 'Exclusively' means human milk only, with no other food or drink, including water
3 In accordance with the UN Global Strategy on Infant and Young Child Feeding

SUMMARY
Justification
The evidence on cancer as well as other diseases shows that sustained, exclusive breastfeeding is protective for the mother as well as the child.
This is the first major report concerned with the prevention of cancer to make a recommendation specifically on breastfeeding, to prevent breast cancer in mothers and to prevent overweight and obesity in children. Further details of evidence and judgments can be found in Chapters 6 and 8.
Other benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and their children are well known. Breastfeeding protects against infections in infancy, protects the development of the immature immune system, protects against other childhood diseases, and is vital for the development of the bond between mother and child. It has many other benefits. Breastfeeding is especially vital in parts of the world where water supplies are not safe and where impoverished families do not readily have the money to buy infant formula and other infant and young child foods. This recommendation has a special significance. While derived from the evidence on being breastfed, it also indicates that policies and actions designed to prevent cancer need to be directed throughout the whole life course, from the beginning of life.

**********
To read the full report (all 500 pages!) go to:
http://www.dietandcancerreport.org
Chapter 6 deals specifically with lactation

Welcome

2007-11-06T14:39:00.000-08:00

After some technical difficulties we have moved the blog to Blogger.com. We hope you all enjoy the added features like the links and reading lists. Please feel free to subcribe to the rss feed so you can keep up-to-date with notices and news.

La Leche League of South Bend

Cloth Diaper Event

Now More Ways to Follow LLL of South Bend

Babywearing Meeting!

Holiday Party!

Let's Talk Holidays!

October's Morning Meeting

September's Morning Meeting-Nutrition!

Art Beat Lactation Station!

Toddlers, Pregnancy and Tandem Nursing!

LLL on the news!

LLLI | One Amazing Deal!

Breatdeeding video from LLL of Canada

Summer Fun With Toddlers

June's morning meeting

Summer Reading

First Annual Prenatal Care Educational Conference

Summer Strategies

April's Morning Meeting!

Let's Talk Sleep!

Pretzel Fun!

January's Morning Meeting--Solid Foods

Tuesday, January 11th

Morning Meeting--It's a Party!

November's Morning Meeting!

Under construction *UPDATE*

Global Breastfeeding Challenge in South Bend

Art Beat Lactation Station!

*Art Beat Update*

World Breastfeeding Week & Art Beat

Meeting Reminder

Volunteer at the Indiana State Fair

Tine Thevenin

Meeting Notice

Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful mothers! Come join us Tuesday evening at 7 pm at Riverpark branch library to share your breastfeeding and mothering experiences and questions.

Purdue Breastfeeding Survey

NDU's Lactation Areas

Old2Gold Time Again!

St. Joseph County Breastfeeding Coalition Meeting

The Passing of Viola Lennon, A Founding Mother

LLL of South Bend in the Examiner!

Baby Wearing 101 *UPDATE*

LLL Kid Winter Party

Meeting Location Changes

Let Us Know What You Think

Going Digital

New Morning Meeting Location!

Nursing Rooms at Shedd Aquarium

Tuesday AM Meeting

Meeting Reminders

November's Evening Meeting

Morning Meeting- Location Change

Birth Discussion Event

Chili Cook Off For Breastfeeding

Art Beat 2009 Update

Art Beat Countdown

Countdown to Art Beat 2009!

Meeting Tonight!

Art Beat 2009

Birth Junkie Movie Night in Elkhart

Complimentary Tea for Expectant Mothers

don't forget tonight's meeting!

Come Join Us!

Swine Flu Considerations for Pregnant & Breastfeeding Women

Happy Earth Day

Raising Funds with Old2Gold

Hold the Date!

2009 Indiana Conference

meeting room update

tonight's meeting canceled

Evening Meeting

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Morning Meeting Update

Meetings Location Change Notice

September Morning Meeting Notice

Sleep and Fatigue Survey

A Letter from LLLI- Edwina Froehlich

Nipple Cream Warning

Bill SB 219 Has Passed!

Tips for Breastfeeding Through the Holidays

Under construction UPDATE

Art Beat Update

Baby Wearing 101 UPDATE