June 2nd La Leche League of Murray held her sixth meeting. Our group has had great showing of at least eight moms at each meeting. During this meeting we had 2 leaders (a third home waiting on baby), 3 moms new to LLL, 2 with preterm babies who are NICU graduates, one expecting baby #1, and 3 returning moms. We had 2 older children, 3 tots and 3 infants and 3 babies on the way. We had to meet in our "toddler room" this time around as the normal meeting space was "under construction." A little tight, a little warm, but adequate for our group.
This was Liz's first meeting to lead and she did an awesome job. We started with the question, "What advice would you give to friends about to have her first baby, regarding breastfeeding?" Answers ranged from "it's natural but doesn't come naturally!" to "learn to breastfeed laying down" and "Understand hospital policies with regards to keeping baby close and giving of artificial nipples, etc."
Our discussion surrounded Topic 3 in our Series Meeting selection. Liz had us each take one or two strips of paper with various "problems" or "difficulties" encountered through the normal course of breastfeeding and we discussed whether what was stated should be of concern or considered "normal behavior."
"My toddler is nursing like a newborn." "I feel like I'm not making enough milk, my six week old is hungry all the time." "I feel no desire for intimacy." All of the aforementioned came under the "normal behavior" section. We discussed in length about changes in desire for intimacy as well as behavoirs of nursing babies/tots at various stages based on what they may or may not be going through. Other things discussed were a baby's avoidance of solids, and then of course questions of personal nature with regards to pumping, bottles and nursing, etc. Some of the information was new, particularly to first time moms of newborns or expecting moms, and it was a wonderful discussion for all of us with regards to just getting to know our own baby's behaviors and being in tune with our own children, realizing the "normal course of breastfeeding" is different for every nursing pair.
Haley is our new librarian and did a great job getting our books ready for check out. So, for those who are members, realize that we now have a nice set of library books, in large part donated to us by the LLL of Sandy group in recent months. We also have several issues of "New Beginnings" available for mother's interested in reading articles in this LLL bi-monthly publication.
Please also be aware that the Breastfeeding Cafe is coming to the Downtown Library for the month of August and we are looking for volunteers to take shifts in two hour intervals. . . you would be involved with the public, answering questions, handing out information, etc.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Baby Arrives: Meeting 2
LLL of Murray met for the 5th time May 5, 2009. We had 13 moms: 3 leaders, 4 expecting moms, 2 moms new to LLL. We also had 15 kiddos, 3 babies, 6 tots & 6 kiddos 3+. Jaclyn led the meeting today and did an awesome job.
The meeting began with a LONG list of housekeeping, followed by introductions and the question "What is your favorite 'go-to' meal? (Either to make or to bring home)" In the true spirit of Cinco de Mayo, many moms answered in the form of various types of Mexican food, and still others followed the general theme of various ethnic foods, like Indian food, Korean curries, etc. Some have specific dietary restrictions due to nursing or dietary choices and this formed their answers with NEW dishes they are finding to be wonderful.
Jaclyn prepared a series of questions for the group which lead to discussions about those who supported us through pregnancy, roles of grandparents, extended family, even neighbors and friends in those early days with baby, specifically with regards to nursing, ways we did or are preparing for a baby coming into the family, who had the most difficult adjustment when baby came, and a few questions with regards to the roles and ways to be sure that older siblings are made to feel special when a new baby comes into the family.
The discussion was awesome. So many moms had great suggestions for other moms, those who have traveled the road of being moms of "only children" and creating "older siblings," those who have dealt with reactions and responses of non-supportive family and friends either of early breastfeeding or extended nursing, thoughts on baby wearing, co-sleeping, diet options, dealing with guests but avoiding "playing hostess" when people come to see a new baby, etc.
Thanks to all the great moms who are making our group a wonderful place to be! Don't forget, if you're interested in what a La Leche League leader does to become a leader, or think this is something you might be interested in doing yourself, feel free to join us next Tuesday at noon, same location as always, for an "interested moms" meeting. RSVP to lllofmurray@gmail.com if you're planning to attend. Looking forward to meeting with everyone.
The meeting began with a LONG list of housekeeping, followed by introductions and the question "What is your favorite 'go-to' meal? (Either to make or to bring home)" In the true spirit of Cinco de Mayo, many moms answered in the form of various types of Mexican food, and still others followed the general theme of various ethnic foods, like Indian food, Korean curries, etc. Some have specific dietary restrictions due to nursing or dietary choices and this formed their answers with NEW dishes they are finding to be wonderful.
Jaclyn prepared a series of questions for the group which lead to discussions about those who supported us through pregnancy, roles of grandparents, extended family, even neighbors and friends in those early days with baby, specifically with regards to nursing, ways we did or are preparing for a baby coming into the family, who had the most difficult adjustment when baby came, and a few questions with regards to the roles and ways to be sure that older siblings are made to feel special when a new baby comes into the family.
The discussion was awesome. So many moms had great suggestions for other moms, those who have traveled the road of being moms of "only children" and creating "older siblings," those who have dealt with reactions and responses of non-supportive family and friends either of early breastfeeding or extended nursing, thoughts on baby wearing, co-sleeping, diet options, dealing with guests but avoiding "playing hostess" when people come to see a new baby, etc.
Thanks to all the great moms who are making our group a wonderful place to be! Don't forget, if you're interested in what a La Leche League leader does to become a leader, or think this is something you might be interested in doing yourself, feel free to join us next Tuesday at noon, same location as always, for an "interested moms" meeting. RSVP to lllofmurray@gmail.com if you're planning to attend. Looking forward to meeting with everyone.
Big Announcement!!!!!
La Leche League of Murray would like to announce two new leaders!!!
Liz & Jaclyn.
Our three Murray leaders bring with them 3 toddlers (2 girls, 1 boy), and 3 bellies. . .Babies all due Mid-June to Mid-August (2 more girls, 1 more boy). As the lone leader of the Murray group for the past 4 months, I am so excited about the fresh approach and new knowledge my co-leaders will bring to our budding group in Murray.
Congratulations Jaclyn & Liz!!!!
Liz & Jaclyn.
Our three Murray leaders bring with them 3 toddlers (2 girls, 1 boy), and 3 bellies. . .Babies all due Mid-June to Mid-August (2 more girls, 1 more boy). As the lone leader of the Murray group for the past 4 months, I am so excited about the fresh approach and new knowledge my co-leaders will bring to our budding group in Murray.
Congratulations Jaclyn & Liz!!!!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
The Importance of Breastfeeding
Better late than never. As the Murray LLL group approaches her 5th series meeting, I'd like to give an update on our last meeting (which rounded out a complete set of series meetings for the Murray group).
We had 11 moms at our April meeting. 3 were new to the Murray group (2 new to LLL, 1 being a SLC group regular), 1 infant, 6 tots, and 5 expectant moms (with 6 babies on the way) and since our meeting, we are happy to report that twin girls have come into the world!
Our opening question was with regards to favorite springtime activies (the weather was lovely the day of our April meeting, though it's fluctuated since) and things to look forward to (especially for mamas who will be facing a first summer with baby or a first summer with a toddler who can really enjoy the outdoors).
We listed together benefits of breastfeeding, among which were safety, sterility, perfect food, easily transported, abundant, and also went into many emotional, psychological and physiological benefits for both mommy and baby. And the discussion followed into the people or reasons which made each of us explore breastfeeding, stick with it and for some of us, even continue on to enjoy the breastfeeding relationship for much longer than we'd planned or anticipated for ourselves.
Books which were highlighted for this meeting were The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding (LLL) and The Breastfeeding Book (Martha Sears).
We are excited to announce that our library has grown significantly over the past month and we will have several books to offer member mothers for check out and perusal beginning with our May meeting (This Tuesday).
We had 11 moms at our April meeting. 3 were new to the Murray group (2 new to LLL, 1 being a SLC group regular), 1 infant, 6 tots, and 5 expectant moms (with 6 babies on the way) and since our meeting, we are happy to report that twin girls have come into the world!
Our opening question was with regards to favorite springtime activies (the weather was lovely the day of our April meeting, though it's fluctuated since) and things to look forward to (especially for mamas who will be facing a first summer with baby or a first summer with a toddler who can really enjoy the outdoors).
We listed together benefits of breastfeeding, among which were safety, sterility, perfect food, easily transported, abundant, and also went into many emotional, psychological and physiological benefits for both mommy and baby. And the discussion followed into the people or reasons which made each of us explore breastfeeding, stick with it and for some of us, even continue on to enjoy the breastfeeding relationship for much longer than we'd planned or anticipated for ourselves.
Books which were highlighted for this meeting were The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding (LLL) and The Breastfeeding Book (Martha Sears).
We are excited to announce that our library has grown significantly over the past month and we will have several books to offer member mothers for check out and perusal beginning with our May meeting (This Tuesday).
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Weaning and Nutrition
March 3 was the third meeting for our La Leche League of Murray group. The meeting was lead by Timbra (lone leader of the Murray LLL group). We had 10 moms in attendance, 2 of whom were new to the group. 3 babes (under 1) and 8 tots (under 4) were also there. Our topic this month was Meeting 4: Weaning and Nutrition. We started out the meeting with introductions and shared our favorite indulgences, then got down to business. Because many of the moms have so far had at least one toddler, the meeting was geared more towards nutrition than weaning. We began with an excerpt in the most recent New Beginnings magazine, a mother's description of weaning, followed by an article in the same magazine on making dietary changes, which also included some recipes to try. From here we made a list "Why You Buy" and it was obvious that each mother is at a different stage of understanding, knowledge and concern for nutrition. Of course economical/expense, dietary choices/restrictions, and avoidance of certain ingredients were on the list. We also got more specific with ingredients, discussed certain foods which included various preservatives, and discussed some dietary differences within the group (vegetarian, vegan, gluten free diets, etc). Finally we went around the group and described ways we were trying to "healthify" our own family's diets. Switching out red meat for ground turkey, making comfort foods/traditional foods healthier, being label readers and choosing brands that omit certain ingredients in place of brands we've "always used" (or maybe even mom always used), making more things from scratch, and how to "hide" fruits and veggies in foods, specifically by pureeing them and including them where they won't be noticed. We highlighted Dr. Sears' Healthiest Kid in the Neighborhood as our book to back up some of the info for this month's topic. The intention is to attempt to highlight at least one book from the La Leche League Bibliography when each topic is presented.
Due to a large number of tots, the meeting was quite "busy." Some of the moms stayed until 2:30 discussing baby wearing and interesting "symptoms" while nursing. I learn more and more with each meeting.
Our group now has a treasurer, however, as our greeter has gone back to work a few days/week, we are now in search of a greeter. At present the group is not prepared with "new mom" packets (that's moms who are new to the Murray group), but if you read this blog and attend meetings, and would like to consider being part of the group in this way, be aware that we will be seeking a greeter in coming months, and have a "new mom" packet available (hopefully) in May.
Remember: For LLL members, the Sandy LLL group holds an enrichment the 4th Tuesday of the first 3 months of the series. Next Tuesday (3/24) the topic is "Benefits of Pre and Post-Natal Yoga." Check it out!!!
Due to a large number of tots, the meeting was quite "busy." Some of the moms stayed until 2:30 discussing baby wearing and interesting "symptoms" while nursing. I learn more and more with each meeting.
Our group now has a treasurer, however, as our greeter has gone back to work a few days/week, we are now in search of a greeter. At present the group is not prepared with "new mom" packets (that's moms who are new to the Murray group), but if you read this blog and attend meetings, and would like to consider being part of the group in this way, be aware that we will be seeking a greeter in coming months, and have a "new mom" packet available (hopefully) in May.
Remember: For LLL members, the Sandy LLL group holds an enrichment the 4th Tuesday of the first 3 months of the series. Next Tuesday (3/24) the topic is "Benefits of Pre and Post-Natal Yoga." Check it out!!!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
The Art of Breastfeeding and Avoiding Difficulties
Tuesday February 3rd LLL of Murray held her second official meeting. We had 12 moms in attendance, the only 4 "returning moms" were the leader and the 3 moms who took on group jobs at our fist meeting. . . so, 8 new moms. An entirely different group dynamic and lots of new perspectives. We had 4 expecting moms (all of whom have older children, 3 of whom are still nursing) and babies in attendance from ages 2 weeks to 3 years. I am also happy to announce that Jaclyn is our new group Treasurer/Bookkeeper. We hope to be selling slings, maya tais, etc in the near future.
Our discussion began with the questions "Who were you before you were 'mom' and how have you held onto those things or incorporated them into your life AS a mother?" Answers ranged from community activism turned breastfeeding advocate, to those with degrees in higher learning still using their specialties a few hours each week or when they need to be part of the "grown up" world, and of course we had some working moms as well.
This month's meeting topic was Meeting 3: The Art of Breastfeeding and Avoiding difficulties.
Each mother was given a piece of paper with a difficulty that may be encountered during the "normal" course of breastfeeding written on it: mastitis, nursing strikes, "normal" nursing patterns in a newborn, more/less nursing at milestones,etc. We went around the room reading our "difficulties" and hearing from those who had encountered some of them. We discussed what the "normal" course of breastfeeding included and that "normal" is an arbitrary word really, each baby, mother and nursing situation is completely different. We also talked through some difficulties not listed, such as dealing with public opinion on nursing in public, including places like gyms, malls and even the pediatrician's office. And finally talked through where different moms found their resolve to continue nursing even when experiencing difficulties at various stages/ages of nursing.
Moms came and went at various times due to older children in school, work schedules and the like. I was able to meet with one mom privately before she left while the meeting needed to continue for a few minutes without me. Several of the "new" mothers had learned of our meetings online either through our blog or other online forums. About half of the mothers stayed after the official meeting where I was able to address some one-on-one questions. The later conversation circled around child wearing, weaning and child spacing. To make our meeting space more "breastfeeding friendly" we displayed photos of nursing moms (with photographer's permission) taken for a project titled "Positive Images of Breastfeeding" which have recently been donated to the Utah Breastfeeding Coalition. Of course these will be taken down after each meeting.
Our discussion began with the questions "Who were you before you were 'mom' and how have you held onto those things or incorporated them into your life AS a mother?" Answers ranged from community activism turned breastfeeding advocate, to those with degrees in higher learning still using their specialties a few hours each week or when they need to be part of the "grown up" world, and of course we had some working moms as well.
This month's meeting topic was Meeting 3: The Art of Breastfeeding and Avoiding difficulties.
Each mother was given a piece of paper with a difficulty that may be encountered during the "normal" course of breastfeeding written on it: mastitis, nursing strikes, "normal" nursing patterns in a newborn, more/less nursing at milestones,etc. We went around the room reading our "difficulties" and hearing from those who had encountered some of them. We discussed what the "normal" course of breastfeeding included and that "normal" is an arbitrary word really, each baby, mother and nursing situation is completely different. We also talked through some difficulties not listed, such as dealing with public opinion on nursing in public, including places like gyms, malls and even the pediatrician's office. And finally talked through where different moms found their resolve to continue nursing even when experiencing difficulties at various stages/ages of nursing.
Moms came and went at various times due to older children in school, work schedules and the like. I was able to meet with one mom privately before she left while the meeting needed to continue for a few minutes without me. Several of the "new" mothers had learned of our meetings online either through our blog or other online forums. About half of the mothers stayed after the official meeting where I was able to address some one-on-one questions. The later conversation circled around child wearing, weaning and child spacing. To make our meeting space more "breastfeeding friendly" we displayed photos of nursing moms (with photographer's permission) taken for a project titled "Positive Images of Breastfeeding" which have recently been donated to the Utah Breastfeeding Coalition. Of course these will be taken down after each meeting.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
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