Betty Rose – Breastfeeding World

What is World Breast Pumping Day?

Betty Rose — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 15:39:37 +0000

January 27, 2018, the breastfeeding community celebrated World Breast Pumping Day!

Unless you’re a pumping mom, no one really knows the endless sacrifice that pumping moms have in their breastfeeding journey.

Pumping Moms Get Sh!t Done!

This isn’t to say that breastfeeding or formula feeding mothers don’t get sh!t done – but it’s to recognize the fact that moms how pump, whether exclusively, by need or by choice, have added duties to their days. They not only have to take care of their child, they are also needing to make time to pump. They need to find a place to pump. And they need to have supplies to pump. With all those balls in the air, they also need to have peace of mind to pump enough.

In a society where fast paced is the key – pumping moms have to sacrifice free time for pump time.

Related Post: How Does a Mom Get Anything Done?

This movement is Necessary

Last year, the team from Snugabell, a Canadian retailer of pumping essential and creators of Pump Ease hands free nursing bras, set a date a side in January to honor all the moms who pump breast milk for their little ones. They wanted to create a special day, similar to that of the Big Latch On. Moms who pump, exclusively or as needed, would be celebrated and supported for their tireless efforts to nourish their children.

“The breastfeeding world can be overwhelming and moms who pump as part –or as all – of their breastfeeding journey often feel excluded. World Breast Pumping Day is an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the time, energy, and dedication pumping requires; it’s a chance to honor the love in every ounce.”

-Snugabell

This year’s them is “Pumping Moms Get Sh!t Done.”

We want to break through the pastel version of motherhood we’re fed by mainstream media and laud the perfectly imperfect reality of pumping moms. Pumpin’ mamas are building freezer stashes, waking up during the middle of the night to get one more pumping session in, skipping lunch with coworkers to pump at their desk while inhaling a sandwich, pumping beside their NICU babe’s bassinet, and sterilizing pump parts and bottles (so many pump parts and bottles) while they carry on with daily life.

-Snugabell

As a pumping mom, the word “exhausted” is what I use to describe my day. It paints the color of no breaks – and literally, as a working mother, this was true. While on a lunch break, I was pumping. On a 15 minute break, I was pumping. Then when I returned home from work, I was breastfeeding. Truly the only time I was not doing anything, was when I was sleeping.

What this means and how you can participate

Recognizing that mothers need better resources, care and appreciation has been undying voice of women. As we enter into smaller communities of moms, the breastfeeding community, we still have micro communities that need additional support beyond the general need. Our working moms, our stay at home moms, our pumping moms need support. And that support is given by its members on days similar to the Big Latch On and World Breast Pumping Day. They are supported through unity and empowerment!

The work and dedication pumping requires is impressive. Pumping, setting up, cleaning up, feeding, storing the milk – pumping can take more than twice the time and effort than breastfeeding or formula feeding. We started to hear from pumping moms that they felt excluded from the breastfeeding world, especially exclusive pumpers. They said they didn’t feel like they were really breastfeeding, which was heartbreaking to hear because these women are hooking themselves up to machines, sacrificing sleep and relaxation and social lives to pump to feed their babies. We felt they needed to be acknowledged and celebrated.

-Snugabell

So, on Jan 27, we took to social media- you can too

Give a shout out to your friends, your neighbors, your co-workers, the woman commuting next to you – anyone who is a pumping mom and tell her she is amazing.
Post photos of breast pumping moms, bottles of milk, or storage bags of breastmilk
Look out for images you can share on social, then give other moms encouragement
Use the hashtags #WeCanPump, #WhyIPump, and #PumpingMomsGTD
Tag @Breastfeeding_world and @snugabell on Instagram or Twitter
Then, join in the fun of giveaways at the Snugabell WBPD Event Page on Facebook throughout the day!

We want to reach moms where they are, scrolling through their phones and trying to catch their breath in between sterilizing bottles and serving dinner, wiping noses and bums, and rocking little ones to sleep. We want to acknowledge the many ways moms are getting shit done. Because we think moms are amazing and we’re tired of being fed this pastel version of motherhood where everyone is happy and everything is clean.

Life is messy and chaotic and there’s a certain type of beauty in the noise. World Breast Pumping Day is an opportunity for us all (moms-to-be or moms of many) to stand together and support each other’s choices, even if those choices look different than the ones we make for our own families.

-Snugabell

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Betty Rose

Betty Rose is a writer and the voice behind the #MomLife Column. Born and raised on the Pacific Island of Guam, she now resides in Seattle, Washington. After having her first child, she began sharing her new role as a Chamorro mother living in the stats and continues to contribute feature stories of Pacific Island communities in other publications. She embraces the diversity, the struggles of motherhood and hopes that, through her writing, she can break and bring awareness to the barriers set on minority communities across the world.

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post What is World Breast Pumping Day? appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

See darling photos of the breastfeeding people of Guåhan (Guam)

Betty Rose — Wed, 24 Jan 2018 18:28:07 +0000

Erica Farwell Photography captures Breastfeeding World’s first ever Guam Photo Shoot:

A mother’s breastfeeding journey is no doubt a life event that is most successful and enjoyable when we have the support of others, and guidance of those who have gone before us.

That is why it’s no surprise that when Alexia Garcia began her New York City photo project through Alegares Photography, it became a vital resource,encouraging and empowering mothers. What began within the NYC community, now stretches across the globe.

Breastfeeding World has grown so much over the few short years of its existence.

After having our first-ever out of country event in Ecuador in August 2017, we headed to the West Pacific Island of Guam and held Breastfeeding World’s second out of country photo shoot with Erica Farwell Photography.

Quick Facts About Guåhan (Guam)

Guåhan, as locals refer to Guam, is a territory of the United States, similar in country status as Puerto Rico. The tropical island is nearly half way across the world from from Washington, D.C. (about 7,920 miles!). It is roughly an 8 hour flight west of Hawaii, 3.5 hour flight south of Japan and is home to over 160,000 island residents.

The weather is summer all year around. IT. IS. HOT! But it is also the island paradise many seek, with its white sand and clear blue beach waters.
The local food is amazing. It’s a blend of pacific-asian flavors – heavy on the rice and soy sauce. With just the right touch of Chamorro flavor, it’s incomparable to others.
The hospitality of the people is like none other in the world.
And if you ask any tourists from Asia, the luxury shopping is just the topper of what makes Guåhan such a renowned destination for travel and vacation in the pacific.

An island full of diversity

Guam is native home of Chamorros, though a vast majority of the population, identify as Guamanian – locals who consider Guåhan home but may not come from native lineage. It’s a fascinating diverse population full of culture from other outer Micronesian islands like Palau, Chuuk, Kosrae, Yap and Pohnpei, further combined with Asian flare of residents with ties to Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines. And that’s just a few!

And while there was much political controversy the month prior to the Guåhan Photo Shoot (the first instance of North Korean missile threats to the island in August 2017), there wasn’t much to stop local moms from gathering for Breastfeeding World’s event.

Guåhan’s Iconic Latte Stone Park

The most remarkable aspect about Breastfeeding World that sets our community apart from others in the #normalizebreastfeeding movement, is documenting mothers and children in the most iconic places of our cities. For Guåhan residents, aside from the beautiful beach shores, the Angel Santos Latte Stone Memorial Park is iconic as it gets. It’s lies in the city capital of Hagåtña and makes for a central commute for residents.

Latte Stones are one of the very few artifacts from Chamorro ancient society that remain.

These megalith structures are carved from limestone and were then used as a foundation for traditional hut houses. The stone’s height is also a symbol for class, with larger latte stones belonging to higher class residents, like chiefs. Smaller latte stones, thus, belonged to lower class residents.

Throughout Guåhan’s history – through multiple country colonization and the World Wars – a majority of existing latte stones of the island were destroyed. What remains standing give locals and academic scholars a glimpse into what ancient Chamorro villages may have looked like prior to western influence.

Capturing the Spirit of Guåhan

We couldn’t have asked for a better landmark to capture the spirit of Guåhan. The setting of Latte Stones in the background and gathering of event attendees were a perfect representation of the island as it is today. Seeing a gathering of both local residents and military personnel was beyond AMAZING.

Bridging the Gap between local and military families

There is an inherent gap between local and military communities in terms of shared community resources. This is often seen in countries with overseas military bases, like Guåhan. Often, locals do not have access to military resources, and military families are less familiar of available local resources. In the mist of it, having Breastfeeding World’s event open to the public meant all families could gather in support of normalizing breastfeeding and connect with each other as breastfeeding advocates for the island.

There are dozens of volunteers from a handful of local organizations who lead the island’s breastfeeding movements.

They are the Breastfeeding Action Team Guam, which is comprised of educators, lactation consultants, medical professionals, doulas, nurses, business owners, government leaders, etc. Their expertise play a hand in guaranteeing that local moms have their breastfeeding rights heard at work and in public spaces. Contributing hard spent time, they focus on bringing awareness to the island. Together, they do this by educating the community of the benefits of breastfeeding and the resources of support that are available to families.

Sharing resources as a community is the goal

Breastfeeding World’s Guåhan shoot gave the perfect opportunity to share these resources with attending guests. While some moms knew about local breastfeeding groups (like IBCLCs Kirsten Robert and Barbara Mafnas’ Guam Mama’s Breastfeeding Support, or the La Leche League of Guam), others did not. While online and physical support systems are in place on island, like other communities, awareness of these resources is limited to just a small portion of the motherhood population.

It was exciting to exchange support groups between military and local moms. Most exciting was encouraging mother’s to attend the free Saturday Socials at Guam’s birthing center, Sagua Managu. Every week, Barbara Mafnas, IBCLC, holds free community classes for mothers. She does assessments on babies, checking weight, checking latch, etc. It’s a great opportunity for families with no health insurance to see a specialist who can help recommend or suggest needs for a their newborn as it relates to breastfeeding.

Mafnas goes the extra mile by providing other exemplary parenting classes for first time parents. She holds Daddy Classes once a month. There, first time fathers can learn the basics of swaddling baby, changing diapers, assisting mom during breastfeeding and other important teachings such as looking for baby cues.

Resources for Local Moms and Military Families

We also shared local government resources for families. Learning about Guåhan’s Women, Infant and Children Program (WIC), gave insight to families who need assistance. It helped clarify questions for those who were curious if they qualified. And it was so nice to have a WIC representative stop by the event to meet with families. This reassured us that there is support for our cause.

For military families who prefer closer to base events, we shared the efforts of Guam’s La Leche League. The group meets twice a month – once in the north, then in the south end of the island. Like BATG, LLL Guam is spearheaded by volunteers, who resumed La Leche League presence on island about 2 years ago. Connor Kelly is the point of contact for LLL Guam. In her work, she speaks about breastfeeding bi-monthly at the airforce base’s Bundles For Babies Program.

What attendees had to say

Let’s preface the highlights of our event by saying that Guam is HOT! We knew traveling from a temperate stateside climate to a tropical island paradise would mean diving into warm weather. However, what we failed to remember was the humidity!

My favorite part was seeing babies of different ages that are being breast fed.

-BFW Guam Guest, on her favorite part of the event

The weather was worth it

We have to (have to!) thank all the families that showed up, socialized and gracefully continued to participate in the shoot despite the weather. The week prior was a never ending rainstorm for the island. This meant that on the first day of no rain, the day of the shoot, there was much more humidity than usual. Top that off with Guam’s heat, gave families a limited amount of time before babies became uncomfortable just hanging outside. It really was so hot with very little breeze that time of day.

There was nothing we could do but laugh and spin our facial sweat as a “glowing” part of the portraits. (Insert chuckle here.)

But that is island life – and island weather. Because of this, the shoot started a few minutes earlier than planned. However, even after group photos were done, guest were still making their way to the shoot. It was nice to see mothers drop by and get individual photos taken by Erica Farwell to contribute to the Photo Project.

I just recently found out about this group online, and for me it meant that there are mothers out there who are successful BF mothers who achieved thier goals with the help of others support. They have thier own stories to share, with struggles, but were able to finish thier goal by getting help from support groups like this.

-MJCT, on what Breastfeeding World means to her

Empowering and encouraging mothers is our mission

While the weather wasn’t the most comfortable, many of the guests said they would attend another event like this in the future. It was great to hear that mothers were encouraged to be comfortable nursing in public. This most especially for locals who come from very traditionally cultured backgrounds. In sense of encouragement was felt in every conversation.

For me and my family it made us comfortable feeding around others most especially new people!

– BFW Guam Guest, on the impact BFW has on her community

It helps encourage me and other mothers to continue breastfeeding, and to show first time mothers and the rest of our community that breastfeeding is natural and that we should be able to do so publicly.

– BFW Guam Guest, on the impact BFW has on her community

Creating a Community

Before and after the photo session, we raffled off Breastfeeding World Swag Bags that included state side sponsors from the Big Latch On. We also had great giveaways from local shops like The Modern Bump and Shop Guam Mom Life.

Beyond the photos, beyond the raffles, was the highlight of creating a community, then connecting mothers with each other face to face.

The online community of motherhood is a very strong, empowering one. So, naturally, meeting people in person really makes an impact on that camaraderie.

Which was made evident through the guests’ response to their favorite part of the event:

“Being with and meeting new people.

-BFW Guam Guest

“Taking the photos and meeting everyone.

-BFW Guam Guest

“Meeting other moms.

-BFW Guam Guest

“The mothers who i got to meet during the shoot.

-BFW Guam Guest

Sharing impact

One suggestion that spoke volumes of the need and want from mothers for more community support in breastfeeding was:

More mothers ! Also a word of mouth publicity about more events like this.

-BFW Guam Guest, on what could BFW Guam better

The power of community is strong. The movement of normalizing breastfeeding is border-less. Whether it be online or in person, finding that tribe which supports families in the journey of parenthood is an amazing feeling. And that is the heart of Breastfeeding World.

Connecting in Struggles and Triumphs through Breastfeeding

“After months of struggling, I finally reached peace. I found confidence, self love and the empowerment to be proud of my breastfeeding journey. Attending Breastfeeding World for me was a life changing experience. For the first time I’d been a part of something I felt passion for. Even as a mother I still to that day had never seen women proudly breastfeeding in public. I always felt ashamed for even thinking about feeding my daughter without a nursing cover around other people who weren’t my husband. On that day my attitude changed for the better and I couldn’t be more thankful. I now feed my daughter without a doubt or worry in my mind, my concerns are back to revolving around my daughter instead of other peoples opinions.”

– Kat Hovey, on her BFW Guam experience

Building Breastfeeding World Awareness

https://youtu.be/r6NrRlMsldg?t=19m40s

Guåhan’s success in creating a breastfeeding friendly community lies within the work of local organizations.

This includes BATG, LLL Guam, the Guam Mama’s Breastfeeding Support Group and the many breastfeeding advocates who call Guam home. They’ve made impressive achievements in recent years.

Just a few years ago, BATG helped Guåhan make public breastfeeding and employer support law through the Nana yan Patgon Act. They’ve helped the local hospitals commit to seeking WHO baby friendly status. They were recognized by WHO with a generous grant to help fund educational efforts of breastfeeding on island. Later, BATG would be awarded a National Recognition for Guåhan’s MagPRO Awards, the prestigious Government of Guam Employee Recognition Awards. Additionally, they’ve recently provided uniform training on breastfeeding to local hospitals and clinics. This ensures that both families and medical staff are aware of options for baby after birth, which eliminates the often quick handed prescription for formula during feedings.

A Successful Event by Community Support

We’d like to thank all the community organizations that helped to spread the word of Breastfeeding World’s First Ever Guåhan Photo Shoot. The Mommy Support Groups on Facebook have been extremely kind. Thank you, Guam Mama’s Breastfeeding Support, The Guam Mom’s Group and Guam Mommies! We’d also like to thank the Guam Daily Post for publishing the event announcement through the #MomLife Column. To KUAM, for featuring our project on the evening news. We’d also like to thank K57 radio for having us on the air to discuss the importance of empowering mothers to breastfeed. Extra special thanks to the Dept of Parks and Recs for assisting with photography permits so quickly!

We so much appreciate our local sponsors who provided awesome giveaways to our guests. Thank you to The Modern Bump for the amazing gifts to raffle off. Thank you to Graceful Journey Doula Services, Shop Guam MomLife, and Guam Birth Boot Camp for your contributions as well!

A Very Special Thank You

We deeply appreciate all the families that attended our event. Capturing Guam and the small portion of it’s breastfeeding community through Breastfeeding World’s Lens could not have been possible without your presence and advocacy.

Finally, at the heart of all this is Erica Farwell Photography. Erica was such a joy to work with on our short trip. She made the group shoot and individual shoots fun, friendly and relaxed. Even with babies uncomfortable from the heat, she still found a way to capture the most darling moments between mother and child. You can find her work at www.ericafarwellphotography.com. She specializes in family and senior portraits on Guam. Fun fact: it was Erica’s first time to Latte Stone Park herself!

Welcome to Breastfeeding World, Guam!

After all was done, the shoot was much more than just an event to attend. It was an opportunity for island residents to come together. To encourage each other’s breastfeeding goals. And join the community of Breastfeeding World that extends beyond Guåhan’s shores.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post See darling photos of the breastfeeding people of Guåhan (Guam) appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Moms Are Eager For Next Year’s Seattle Big Latch On

Betty Rose — Fri, 03 Nov 2017 13:00:07 +0000

PNW Moms make history for Breastfeeding World’s first Downtown Seattle Big Latch On

There was so much excitement kicking off Breastfeeding World’s first ever west coast Big Latch On in Downtown Seattle! Moms gathered to show just how powerful the PNW community is in coming together in the name of normalizing breastfeeding.

Lots of excitement to make it happen

Like many first-ever events, hurdles that could have happened, happened. With unexpected wild fires burning in our Canadian neighbors’ forests, Seattle had been dealing with poor air quality for weeks. While there were predictions for better air that weekend, the days leading to it proved otherwise. It caused our guests to move from our initial outdoor gathering at Gas Works Park to indoors. Mothers were determined to be present at the event. They made Breastfeeding World’s Downtown Seattle Latch On successful despite the change in plans.

The Washington State Convention Center became the perfect meeting point. We were indoors, which meant a cooler location, better air quality for the children, and a safer place for toddlers to roam freely. Most importantly, a more intimate venue to meet with other guests.

Strong bonds for building a community

With just under 2 weeks of planning, the Breastfeeding World team in NYC, Martha’s Vineyard and Central Indiana coordinated their efforts to carry out Seattle’s first Latch On with ease. Each location sent over goodies for guests, swag bags and raffle items to make the event extraordinary. In the same passion for success, many guests from the Seattle event offered their hands and volunteer time for next year’s Big Latch On. It is amazing to hear complete strangers offer support, encouragement and excitement to a common mission of building a community and supporting a cause.

How does participating in the Big Latch On impact our community?

Being present and gathering for Breastfeeding World’s first Downtown Seattle Big Latch On wasn’t just a gathering of a group of women in Seattle. It also wasn’t just a four city effort of the Breastfeeding World Team. For one whole minute, we joined 18,011 other women who breastfed 17,790 children across the world at 10:30am in their respective time zones.We came together in unity with 725 other countries to stand for breastfeeding rights everywhere.

We gather each year for the Big Latch On to normalize breastfeeding. There are so many aspects of the breastfeeding struggle in society that we see daily. This yearly event marks one day which is celebratory for all involved. We can gather, share stories of breastfeeding journeys, and provide resources and encouragement. Most of all, it brings awareness to our communities. It shines a light on the importance of breastfeeding for child, for mom and for our families.

Events like the Downtown Seattle Big Latch On help mothers celebrate the natural act of breastfeeding. By doing so, it helps normalize breastfeeding for society, to see it as an important part of motherhood and a child’s development. It is from events like the Seattle Big Latch On that cities are able to make legislative movement to protect mothers who breastfeed in public. It also makes movement to give Employers the sense to provide and care for breastfeeding mothers who return to work.

Breastfeeding World embodies this movement daily. We’re so glad to have Downtown Seattle added to the list of cities our growing community can turn to for our events.

Moments captured remain the highlight of the day

The most beautiful elements of Breastfeeding World and Downtown Seattle’s Big Latch On are the photos. Phosphorus Photography‘s Ashley Ohlson Stramp is our Featured Photographer who captured the bonding of families at the event. She was amazing at creating the images that Breastfeeding World stands for. She captured the perfect bond between mother and child, the fun between new found friends and the enjoyment of others who gather in support of an important cause.

Many mothers resonated the same sentiment of Breastfeeding World hosting a Seattle location. They were extremely happy and thrilled to find a Big Latch On in Seattle. Families traveled from across the sound, north and south Seattle and from towns an hour or more away. A family on vacation from California attended the event as well, which brought great insight to how strong the breastfeeding community is across our state borders.

We were so happy to meet each and every guest that day. Your presence means so much to Breastfeeding World and we’re going to be growing our community to make a larger and much more impactful Big Latch On next year!

Thank you to our Sponsors

Breastfeeding World’s Downtown Seattle Big Latch On couldn’t have been more exciting without our Sponsors. Thank you Phosphorus Photography, Kindred Bravely, Baltic Essentials, Mommy Con, TulaBaby, Betty Rag Bag, Bessie’s Best, Doodle Pants, Vija Design, Earth Mama Angel Baby, Klenimals, Robin Lewis.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post Moms Are Eager For Next Year’s Seattle Big Latch On appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Announcing Breastfeeding World in Seattle for the Big Latch On!

Betty Rose — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 14:19:17 +0000

Making History, One Event at a Time

We are so pleased to introduce Breastfeeding World’s first ever Downtown Seattle Big Latch On! For the first time, the volunteers and passionate mamas at Breastfeeding World can’t believe we get to host Big Latch On events from Coast to Coast. Starting from intimate Martha’s Vineyard, to iconic Times Square, to sprawling Central Indiana, and now Seattle! Our project is expanding our reach to communities across the USA.Together, we can empower breastfeeding families in each area!

As nursing moms ourselves, we know, motherhood is HARD. Breastfeeding is HARD. And just like motherhood, breastfeeding is worth it. That is why we strive to “share the breastfeeding love”. We do this through social media, our blog, our photography project, and by hosting Big Latch On events across the USA.

The Latch

The Global Big Latch On takes place at registered locations around the world,where women gather together to breastfeed and offer peer support to each other. Their friends, family and community join this celebration to promote and support breastfeeding. Volunteers from within the community host each location, hosting a Global Big Latch On creates a lasting support network for the community.

What to expect at a Global Big Latch On location?

There’s usually a little bit of beautiful chaos, lots of laughter and then some counting. We do have some records to break, which is why we need your help. We count the number of children breastfeeding at the same time (the latch count), how many breastfeeding women gathered and the total number of people who come out to show their support, so bring as

many friends and family members as you can.

At around 10.30am we count all the breastfeeding that is happening. It’s a latch on, so a child’s mouth around a breastfeeding woman’s nipple counts. If you are breastfeeding

twins or triplets (or more!) counts 2/ 3 even if they are not all breastfeeding at the same time. We figure that’s fair enough! Remember no one checks for milk transfer, children do not have to stay latched for the whole time and all ages are very welcome.

We recognize that everyone’s breastfeeding journey looks different and we want the Global Big Latch On to be as fun and inclusive as possible, while still reaching our aims of positively supporting breastfeeding in public and making it a normal part of day to day life.You can be included in the latch count by latching a child or children; using an supplemental nursing system or nipple shield; expressing milk (hand or pump) or by feeding your child breast milk via an alternative method.

Find out more on their website!

What Can You Expect from Breastfeeding World’s Downtown Seattle Big Latch On?

Check-in and Registration time is at 9:45am at the top of Kite Hill at Gas Works Park. Please be sure to arrive earlier to navigate from the parking lot to the hill top in time. There will be plenty of room to sit and enjoy South Lake Union and the Skyline of Downtown, so bring a blanket for you and your little one. Sunglasses and sunscreen will be great to have on hand!

The first 30 guests to register will be given a Swag Bag courtesy of our generous donors. At 10:15am, we’ll start gathering moms together in one group to prep and count down for the Big Latch On at 10:30am. We’ll breastfeed for 1 minute with our photographer going around to document the event and a count of our group will be done.

Afterwards, we’ll have four Raffle Baskets to raffle off to lucky mamas!

How to Participate in Our Downtown Seattle Big Latch On

Latch on Participant:

Are you a Breastfeeding or Pumping Parent with a nursling? Let us know to expect you and recieve a free swag bag by Pre-Registering Here! Then all you have to do is show up the day of and check in!

As a Volunteer:

Everyone at Breastfeeding World volunteers our time and love because of our passion for the breastfeeding community. Interested in helping make this event possible? Please email Betty Cortes at bcortes@bresatfeedingworld.org

Did I tell you about our amazing donors & contributors who are donating to your Swag Bags and Giveaways?

Breastfeeding World is a Volunteer run, self-funded and non-profit organization. We rely on donations like those from our sponsors to make event’s like the Downtown Seattle Big Latch On Possible! Supporting their businesses is a great way to let them know you think we are a great cause!

Not only will the first 30 Moms who register for our Seattle Big Latch On receive an amazing Swag Bag filled with Goodies from WHO compliant businesses, but we also will have several Incredible Raffle Baskets to give away! Follow our EVENT PAGE to find out more about what you’ll find!

Kindred Bravely

Read our Review of their line, here!

As a nursing mom, Deeanne Akerson struggled to find comfortable clothes that were both functional and stylish. “Everything fell into one of two categories: pretty but hopelessly impractical or super ugly but functional.” Since necessity really is the mother of invention, Deeanne got to work designing her own line of maternity and nursing clothes. Her brainchild, Kindred Bravely, devotes itself to making life easier for pregnant and nursing moms.

Perhaps more important than her clothing is Deeanne’s mission to build a community of moms who support and celebrate each other. In fact, she chose the name Kindred Bravely to represent sisterhood of moms and the courage it takes to raise a child. “As moms, we’ve got to stick together. We’re family now. We have the same struggles and the same desires.”

Behind the scenes, Kindred Bravely employees, most of them work-at-home-moms, help share Deeanne’s mission and values: be grateful, be generous, be brave, be encouraging. Along with delivering top-of-the-line clothing, the “Kindred BraveMoms” provide incredible customer service, share quality content, and engage with social media communities.

Baltic Essentials

Baltic Essentials -Amber & Hazelwood is one of our sponsors this year! They have provided enough Baltic Essentials Amber for a FREE Baltic Amber necklace for every mom at the event!! Baltic Amber is an organic, safe, 100% guaranteed way to safely treat your babies teething pain, fever, common cold, red cheeks, and droll! Babies are PAIN FREE in just 30 minutes! And they have mom & dad versions too for all of your aches and pains! Migraines, Back Pain, Sciatica, Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel & more! Get yours so you both will have one during the even! Use coupon FIRSTTIME to save 20%. And then show them some love! Tag @BalticEssentials on all of your amber posts!

I can’t Wait to meet you at our First Ever Downtown Seattle Big Latch On

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post Announcing Breastfeeding World in Seattle for the Big Latch On! appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Why Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag is the best gift I’ve ever received

Betty Rose — Sat, 27 May 2017 12:45:33 +0000

The only thing I wanted for Christmas last year from my other half was a Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag.

Christmas was extra special this year. E celebrated her first Christmas and I received my first Sarah Wells Bag!

Let me tell you why this breast pump bag has been the best gift I’ve ever received.

I’m a new mom. A new mom, who works.A new mom, who works and carries a laptop daily. A new mom, who works, carries a laptop and her purse daily. A new mom who works, carries a laptop, her purse and lunch daily. A new mom who works, carries a laptop, her purse, lunch and pumping gear daily.

I’m just a new mom who carries way too many bags – daily.

While lugging my laptop bag, purse and lunch to work was the norm, adding in my pumping bag just made it unusually cumbersome. One would think I was going on a mini vacation with all those bags. Definitely not the case.

I was simply going to work carrying all the gear I needed for the day:

[col1]

my wallet
make-up
car keys
misc purse necessities

[/col1]

[col2]

lunch
laptop
laptop charger
mouse
pens
note pad

[/col2]

[col3]

breast pump
flange
storage bags
breastpump parts
cooler bag

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….all of these in THREE. DIFFERENT. BAGS.

All that changed on Christmas

A Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag was the only thing I wanted for Christmas, so my other half gave the OK and gifted me my very first Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag! Of all the different bags and styles, I was drawn to the Annie Bag. It is this perfectly professional, sleek leather tote that is Executive Meeting appropriate. No one would ever guess my breast pump, nursing pads and pump parts and supplies were held in side, which is great for someone like me, who serves our Executive Team.

Amazing Annie

Amazing is the only word I can find to describe the feeling the first day I went to work with my Annie Bag. I had my laptop in there, my breast pump and pump parts and supplies…and my purse essentials! ALL. IN. ONE. SINGLE. STYLISH. BAG!

What my pumping station at work usually looked like. Sarah Wells Annie Breast pump Bag and coordinating Pumparoo make pumping at work easy. And inconspicuous to others in the work place!

I still carried lunch separately because I’m one of those people that brings rice and meat and forks and fruits, as if I’m going on a picnic for four – but it’s really just lunch for one (plus, it’s for the breast milk!).

Being able to carry all my work gear in one bag was heaven. It made me wish I had purchased a Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag as soon as I returned to work after maternity leave. It would have saved me a lot of time from packing and carrying three to four separate bags each day.

Pumparoo Perk

In addition to the Annie Bag, Dad got a great deal when he purchased and received a Sarah Wells Pumparoo. The Pumparoo is a wet and dry bag that coordinates with each of Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bags. IT IS awesome and is a must have for moms who pump on the go. While there are pockets in my Annie Bag, the Pumparoo made it possible to hold more pumping supplies and it allowed me to carry my pump parts to and from my desk without having to carry the bag itself.

The Fabulous Features

Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bags are a must for every mom – even for those who don’t pump or out of the breastfeeding stage! Here are some of the awesome features that I love:

Direct access storage pockets for breast pumps

I loved being able to open my breast pump bag and not have to lift my breast pump out of it to operate. With Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bags, the direct access storage pockets open on the side of the bag for easy convenience and access to your pump. You just slide the pump out to begin your session, or leave your pump in the pocket and pull out your tubing or power adapter only! Love, love, love not having to reorganize every pumping session with this feature!
Thermally Lined Pockets

The Kelly Greige backpack breast pump bag is an awesome choice for moms who want a hands-free option. Every Sarah Wells Bag comes with foil lined pockets to keep things cool and cold as needed. This is especially great when transporting frozen milk!

Every Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag comes with thermally foil-lined pockets, which means these bags act like coolers! This is perfect for keeping frozen milk during transport (goodbye hideous coolers that come with insurance issued breast pumps!). If you keep ice packs in there as well, anything cool will stay cool for up to 6 hours, including freshly expressed milk, refrigerated snacks like yogurt, or bottles on the go. (I’ve kept up to 10 storage packs of frozen milk at work in our freezer. On Fridays when I transport them all home they fit and stay frozen past that 6 hours!).

But the coolers aren’t just for milk! As E grows, we can keep juice boxes and fruit cool throughout the day!
Water-resistant, easy-to-clean materials

Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bags are made of water resistant material. So, if you spill some milk – which HAPPENS – it’s an easy clean! You can also throw it in the washer for a quick wash and air dry if there are any other accidents or spills.
Lifetime guarantee

100% Mom Satisfaction is Sarah Wells’ guarantee. Customer service is probably the NUMBER ONE reason Sarah Wells has such a great fan base of customers. I mean, these bags are amazing in itself, but moms love being encouraged and told the products they purchase come with a satisfaction guarantee. The Sarah Wells team truly live up to this motto. So much so that Sarah herself directly communicates with customers. How awesome is it for any owner of a company to make time for their customers?!
The staging mat of the Pumparoo is excellent. It lets moms trust their pumping space is sanitary.

Accessories

The Pumparoo is a great wet and dry bag to store your pump parts before and when you’re done with your pumping session. If you’re at work and on the go, just toss in the parts you used and leave it in the refrigerator for your next pumping session. NO ONE at work will ever guess that sitting next to their lunch is your pump parts! (And no awkward stares from coworkers as you travel down the hall with your pumping gear!)

I use the dry outer pocket to hold all my extra supplies, like my nursing pads, extra valves and storage bags for milk I pump…and chocolate (because everyone needs chocolate while they pump!).

The amazing part of it?

Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag and Pumparoo are the perfect combo for any mom pumping on the go.

Sarah created a staging mat that you could never tell was there! At the back of the Pumparoo is the snappable removable mat. This becomes every mom’s safe haven for a clean sanitized table top when it comes time to pump. It’s in the same pattern and material as the rest of the Pumparoo, too!

How awesome is that? Super multi-functional and discreet in everyway when you’re at work! The Pumparoo is BPA-free, PVC-free, Phthalate-free, Lead-free and can hold up to four 8 oz bottles.

Made for every Mom in Mind

Not only are Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bags stylish and impressively functional, they grow with mom for every stage of motherhood. When I’m done nursing E, I’ll be able to use the Annie tote just like a regular work bag. The foil lined pockets will fold into itself and provide more space inside. Or, I can use that part of the bag to be my lunch bag to keep my food chill til lunch time!

“No one in our building ever knows that Dad carries my breast pump bag everyday we come home from work. I mean, look at that backpack – would you ever guess it contained chilled milk I pumped at work?”

Not just Totes

The Kelly Greige BackPack Bag is a perfect example of how Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bags are suitable beyond the breastfeeding years. Because it’s a hands free option, I see us using this bag to the park or on hikes in the future. The foil lined pocket in this particular bag is HUGE. It’s large enough to hold six 8oz bottles spaciously standing right side up. So, as we move from bottles to sippy cups to juice boxes and more, this bag becomes a stylish portable cooler for snacks and drinks on the go! The neutral design is also great for Dads to wear it as well!

BONUS: The inside of the Kelly Greige Bag has a LAPTOP SLEEVE!!! How flippin awesome is that for traveling families? Check the Facebook Live Feed below for a thorough exam of both the Annie and Kelly Greige bags. This is great for moms who work remotely or studying for school!

What if lugging around a large bag isn’t your style?

The MHEARTM BAG is your answer! Sarah Wells thought of moms past the breastfeeding and pumping stage, too! As the latest addition to the Sarah Wells family, MheartM bags give moms additional freedom. These bags still have a foiled lined pocket, but are smaller for that time in motherhood when a large bag isn’t needed.

It has 8 pockets (every moms dream for organization in a light weight bag!). Two pockets are thermally lined. You can keep things like yogurt or sippy cups cool if you’re on a quick stroll to the park. There are two inner pockets with tuft sleeve elastics that is perfect for water bottles or baby bottles ready for formula. There are two small inner zipper pockets as well. It’s a great space for all the small loose items you want in one place. There are also two large outer pockets. One is in the front, for easy access to things like pacis or teethers. The other is in the back, for things like your your wallet so it sits close to the body. All the pockets are deep and more expansive than the MHeartM seems on the outside.

The coolest part of Sarah Wells MHeartM Bags are the multi functional ways you can wear it!

There are at least 5 different ways the single strap can create “different MHeartM bags”.

Shoulder Bag

Use the strap as a shoulder bag that is petite and on the go. The Strap hooks on to the metal loops at the top of the bag and is adjustable.
Messenger Bag

Baby wearing moms will love the fanny pack transformation with a few adjustments of the MheartM strap. Hands free and easily accessible without wearing straps on the shoulder! Photo credit @milksprouts

If you like cross body purses, this will be your go to style! By extending the length of the strap, you can convert the should bag look into a messenger bag!
Fanny Pack

For Baby wearers, a fanny pack is helpful when straps are too difficult to add the already busy shoulders. Sarah created two small loops in the back side of the pocket where the strap can slip through. This creates a belt like option for a fanny pack. AMAZE BALLS!

Converting the MHeartM bag into he Stroller BFF option gives parents confidence and security being out at fairs or venues like Disney. The straps convert and allow the bag to be secured to the stroller. This means less chances of someone running away with your belongings!
Back Pack

If that wasn’t enough, you can use the hooks at either end of the strap from the fanny pack position and secure them to its corresponding metal loop at the top of the bag. VOILA! You have a mini back for a truly light and hands free day at the park (where *some of us* won’t accidentally hit another child in the head from our swinging messenger bag as we chase down our run away child).
Stroller BFF

My favorite has to be the Stroller option that the straps give for moms. If you don’t like wearing a bag and want to secure it to your belongings so that it is less likely to be lifted by some unfriendly stranger, then from the Fanny Pack mode, loop each strap end over your stroller bar and hook it to the corresponding metal loops at the top of the bag. This secures your MHeartM bag to your stroller!

Sarah Wells demo

Watch this Facebook live from Breastfeeding World, beginning at 34:50 to see all the ways you can wear the MheartM bag! Watch the whole video for more show of the Annie Bag, The Kelly Greige Pockets and the Abby Tote that is perfect for summer!

? Giveaway! Sarah Wells Breastpump Bag Giveaway Collab with The #MomLife Column! Winner’s pick of their bag or 2 of the newest released MheartMs! Woohoo!!

Posted by Breastfeeding World on Thursday, 25 May 2017

Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag Giveaway

I’m so in love with this bag, I wish every mom could own one! Sarah Wells has been extremely generous to give one away in a Breastfeeding World and #MomLife Column Collab! Enter here!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Plus, get a special code for 15% off by watching the Live Feed Video above!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post Why Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag is the best gift I’ve ever received appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Single Moms get the Best Appreciation on Mother’s Day

Betty Rose — Tue, 23 May 2017 13:00:10 +0000

To all the Single moms out there, playing both mom and dad roles for their little ones. You Super Moms are the Rock Stars of this world.

It takes a village to raise a child, they say. But, you’re out here raising your kid, or kids, on your own.

You’re working your 8, or 10, or 12 hour shifts. Then picking up your child and taking them home to work another 12 or more hours as mommy and daddy.

You’re making dinner, as nutritious as you can. I’m sure you’re finding whatever left overs your kid hasn’t eaten as the appetizer to your meal. A meal that you probably don’t have time to sit and enjoy leisurely.

You try to keep bath time as dry as possible, and bed time routine as quiet as you conceivably can.

After the house is silent and everyone is asleep, when it’s past 10pm or so, you make time to unwind from the day.

It could be as simple as catching up on social media on your phone. Maybe, responding to text messages or simply taking a shower for as long as you want. Because lets face it, it’s probably the only time of the day when you’re not working.

Trying to go to bed quickly yourself isn’t so easy.

With all the things you need to do; the laundry you need to fold or throw in, the trip to day care or school, getting yourself ready for work, and the never ending list for after you get out of work – all these thoughts keep you up past 12am.

And when the morning comes, your day repeats.

Your tireless, solo effort to provide for your family, the discipline you have to wake up for work, and the love you show to your child(ren) amidst all the chaos of your day, makes you Wonder Woman.

Because of this, no other mom can feel as appreciated as you do, especially on Mother’s Day.

The love your kid(s) shows is twice the love than others, because you are both mom and dad in their eyes.

The hugs your kid(s) gives is twice the strength of that than others because you are the ONLY one there to receive them.

The giggles your kid(s) has is twice the joy because you are the ONLY one who can enjoy the sweet sounds of their laughter.

The smile your kid(s) shares is twice as heart-melting than others because those smiles are SOLELY for you to see.

The list goes on.

I was there once – as that kid. The village that took care of me and my siblings changed from time to time because of our circumstances, but when it came time to Mother’s Day, it was always the same.

There wasn’t anything sweeter than giving our Mom as much love as we could through what we had.

She hadn’t remarried for years after my father passed away when I was very young. She did the best she could to provide for my siblings and me.

Every hand made card or letter that we ever wrote, was done knowing she was both Mom and Dad. And she deserved every word of love and appreciation we sent.

So, to all the single moms out there, I hope this Mother’s Day was full of extra tight hugs, the deepest giggles, and extra slobbery greeting cards that your child(ren) sealed with excessive spit to ensure it stays intact.

You deserve every bit of love your child can squeeze out on your special day and every day after.

Happy (every day is) Mother’s Day!

_{The Guam Daily Post published a version of this article.}

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post Single Moms get the Best Appreciation on Mother’s Day appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Moms Need To Be Told They Are Enough

Betty Rose — Mon, 20 Mar 2017 14:00:36 +0000

Every once in awhile, moms need to be told that they are enough.

Being a new mom is hard. Being any kind of mom is hard.

Moms continuously think about how everything around them is going to operate successfully before they put themselves in the equation.

If you’re a mom, like me, who co-sleeps and works 40 hours a week outside of the home, you can probably relate to my morning routine:

Quietly slither out of bed without baby noticing. (Success!)
Shower (but stop every few minutes to listen out if baby has woken up. Still asleep! Shower uninterrupted and successful!)
Get dressed (but move every so quietly through the room as not to wake baby).
Say “Hi” to baby (because opening that one drawer was LOUD enough to wake her up).
Put baby on activity mat so you can complete Step 3.
Dress baby
Put diaper bag together.
Gather your pump bag, lunch, and purse items together.
Fix hair (not the baby’s, yours).
Rush out of the house (because you were supposed to leave 25 minutes ago!).
Go back into the house and get car keys.

I don’t even have time for make up in the morning at home, so I apply it when I get to work, in the 5 minutes I have inside the women’s restroom before my shift starts.

My morning routine is a hustle. After work is just the same:

Get E from Grandma’s house (thank you, Madre for watching E!)
Get home (usually by 7:30pm on most days).
Change E’s diapers, then do a nursing session.
Get E to sleep (ever met a kid who just went to bed when you said it was time to? No? There’s a reason for that).
Eat dinner (if you’re more hungry than tired).
Shower (after you’ve evaluated the cost-benefit of an evening and morning shower).
Sleep (in whichever room you find yourself.)

I can’t even tell you when I brush my teeth, because it happens at some point in one of those steps – I just don’t know where.

My dishes don’t get washed every night like I was raised to do. My clean laundry sits in a pile all week long until the weekend, when I find some time to fold them. I never vacuum (thanks to Dad for doing this part!) and I literally put on whatever clean clothes I can find for work every morning.

The whole point of this?

Moms really don’t have time for anything leisure, especially mom-shaming.

So, if you’re out there criticizing a mother because her house is a mess, please stop. She doesn’t need to hear that you SEE her struggling, because you made a comment about her “messy house”. She doesn’t need to hear that YOU have time to cook every night for your family, then question why she doesn’t. What she NEEDS- is to be encouraged. Moms need to know they are enough.

Mom, you are enough.

Before we continue to criticize a mother for her choice in the way she keeps herself and her home or the way she raises her children, stop and think of what impact your words would have on her day.

Every mom mothers differently. Every mom has a routine that works perfectly for herself. It may not be the same as yours or her neighbors, but every mom tries her best to do what she can with the time she has, and still find it in herself to say confidently that she is a GREAT mom.

Remember, this woman multitasks like no other human on earth.

She is mentally running a marathon. Though she may hide it quite well, she is tired…especially tired of mom-shaming.

So, to all the moms out there who are juggling more than one “job” by being a mom, keeping up the house, working or volunteering, or watching a friend’s kid so that friend can go to the store to buy groceries, this one’s for you. Thank you for all you do.

You, and your family, and the organized chaos that you so sweetly have a handle on…is enough. And for that, you are loved.

Read more about building a village and encouraging moms here and be part of the community that embraces everything about motherhood. Join the movement on Instagram to End Mom Shaming with The Mama Stamp.

The Guam Daily Post published an original version of this article.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post Moms Need To Be Told They Are Enough appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Why SproutFit Clothes will be the best Baby Gift of the Year

Betty Rose — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 19:51:18 +0000

SproutFit baby clothes is changing the clothing game forever.

Before our daughter was born, I made it clear that we wouldn’t buy her clothes. I told Dad that we’d probably be able to get by with her generous grandparents, godparents and friends. As predicted, they blessed us with tons of outfits. Tons of outfits she quickly grew out of, and which needed replaced.

I love seeing my daughter dressed up in all sorts of outfits. But like many moms, I knew that buying clothes would be expensive. Trying to keep up with style and trends can add up, especially since we’re buying clothes for a baby who quickly grows into the next size a month or so after that first purchase.

In my search to buy clothes, I’ve also chosen to support handmade shops because I am a socially conscious consumer, and because I want to other moms and companies with ethically produced items and genuine love for making. That’s when I came across SproutFit. I couldnt’ believe the solution it’s owner Whitney Sokol was creating for every parent!

SproutFit is everything.

The clothing line literally eliminates the 0-3mos, 3-6mos, 6-9mos, 9-12mos baby clothing size ranges. It’s replaced with one 0-12mo size, and a larger 12-24mo option.

The design of each piece allows it to grow with baby. With strategically placed snaps, and longer and tapered sleeves and legs, sizes adjust by rolling or scrunching. For kickoff, the designers have created long and short sleeve body suits, leggings, bandana bibs and a generous double layered 40×40 blanket.

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SproutFit is consciously made in the US. It’s also eco-friendly with double layered, antimicrobial bamboo fabric that has a hint of stretch. The material helps baby stay warm in the winter weather and cool in summer weather.

The best feature?

The entire collection comes in coordinating colors of reversible clothing! Absolutely fits every parent’s need!

From SproutFit’s Mini Capsule of 8 items, parents can create 60 different unique outfits!

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“Those outfit combinations will last through 12 months of growth spurts,” said Whitney Sokol, founder of the company. “If you break it down by outfit, that’s $4.32/outfit and baby gets to wear it for a year instead of a month!”

$4.32 per outfit is an amazing price for parents!

But it’s not just for parents to buy. SproutFit clothes will make the best baby gift for expectant parents, new moms, baby showers, birthdays, etc. Having reversible and adjustable clothing may just be the best gift to give an a growing child. Who wouldn’t want to be the cool Aunt, Uncle, or godparent gifting this new design?

SprouFit’s KickStarter campaign began on February 24th and will run until March 26th.

“A successfully funded campaign will go directly towards our first production run, which we will immediately begin working on come March 27^th,” said Sokol. “I am so excited about using the Kickstarter platform to show busy parents everywhere a different, smarter system for clothing their babies!”

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There are 11 rewards for Backers to choose from, and the Backers’ order will be fulfilled by May 31.

$10 E-smooch from the whole SproutFit Family
$39 3 Bandana Bibs
$59 Essential Balnket
$69 Short-sleeve (Spr)outfit
$79 Long-Sleeve (Spr)outfit
$99 EARLY BIRD DOUBLE (SPR)OUTFIT
$139 Minimalist starter Pack
$189 Most Requested: BABY SHOWER GIFT SET
$259 Must Have: Mini-Capsule
$499 Smart Start: 1 Year Capsule
$899 EARLY BIRD Best Value: 2 Year Capsule
$999 2 Year Capsule

Sprout fit has already surpassed 60% of its goal, which means this dream line will soon become a reality! Backers who pledge now get an awesome price for early bird rewards. This means extra savings on the new release!

So, if you’re ready to purchase the best thing that has come to extending the wear of children’s clothing by using an adjustable design, be a backer for SproutFit today!

If you want to learn more about the SproutFit journey, sign up for SproutFit’s newsletters. Signing up ensures that you’re the first to know when their Kickstarter is successfully funded, and you’ll get the latest details of the campaign, exclusive discounts and opportunities for some awesome giveaways!

You can find SproutFit online on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @SproutFitCo and at www.sproutfit.co.

Check out The Guam Daily Post article about this great new line.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post Why SproutFit Clothes will be the best Baby Gift of the Year appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Moms storm Womens March with breasts, pumps and kids in tow

Betty Rose — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 00:03:19 +0000

In what was recorded as the largest single day protest in history, an estimated 4 million people gathered to march in cities across the globe in support of basic human rights.

Whether marchers had supported one side or the other in the United State’s 45th Presidential election last November. participants in the 2017 Women’s March on Washington marched for far more than the results of the polls. Women, men, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, gathered and marched in their respective cities for more than one cause, the underlying being basic women’s rights as describe in the Unity Principle:

We believe that Women’s Rights are Human Rights and Human Rights are Women’s Rights. We must create a society in which women – including Black women, Native women, poor women, immigrant women, disabled women, Muslim women, lesbian queer and trans women – are free and able to care for and nurture their families, however they are formed, in safe and healthy environments free from structural impediments.”

Those who gathered, gathered to end violence. They gathered to support reproductive, LGBTQIA, worker’s, civil, disability and immigrant rights. They gathered to advocate for environmental justice. While social media and news casts flooded screens with images of marchers and their signs flooding the streets of the largest cities, images that struck chords with those watching were of mothers, breastfeeding, pumping and carrying kids in tow.

Here are some of our favorite moms from Saturday’s March

Moms who breastfed

Moms like Sydney, who struck a chord with those around her.

I see mamas breastfeeding in public spaces a lot. It’s a beautiful thing, but watching it happen during the Women’s March brought tears to my eyes. Sydney and her family flew the red eye from LA on Saturday to attend the Women’s March on Washington. As I was sitting next to her, I couldn’t help but feel extra emotional. I almost couldn’t hold it in. THIS IS WHY WE MARCH. For choice, for equality, for the future, for the betterment of humanity. Thank you Sydney, for allowing me to capture this.”

@yowzafrow

Moms like Miranda, with her daughter Juniper, who took a break from the march.

#WhyImarch”

Photo credit: Nicole Juarez

Moms like Kelly, who bumped into another mom on the same feeding schedule.

2 moms who ran into each other while feeding their babies at the Women’s March.”

@baby.mama.kellz

Moms who Pumped

Moms like Celia, who came with signs showing their support for ACA and fundamental rights.

Our signs at the #chicago Women’s March this morning – Girls Just Want to Have Fundamental Rights ?? I pumped three bottles to make it to the march today!”

@chicagojogger

Moms like Kelly pumped during the March with smiles.

because 80% of our lawmakers have no idea what this feels like”

-@kelly_Seeds

Moms like Lauren, who did their part, even through the rain.

When you gotta pump and fight for human rights at the same time ?”

@statera_pax

Moms who prepped before and after

Moms like Triathlete Margaret, with her little, who one hydrated before their march in Portland.

On the way to #womensmarchpdx #publicbreastfeeding #normalizebreastfeeding“

@vegmargaret

After their march, moms like Heidi and her little one refreshed from their walk.

Post march snack “

@heidijanevet

Moms with more causes than one

In Seattle, moms like Amy taught her young daughter about her rights to her body.

Her body, her choice, and her rights.”

@amy_sung

Moms like Jaynina marched with, and for, her children.

#whyimarch #womxnsmarchseattle”

@jayneenuhprince

Moms like Hannah challenged the world to stand up for people’s rights.

Frankie Mei is strong enough to stand up for her rights…are you? “

@hanjomei

In LA, Moms like Micaela took a moment to normalize breastfeeding.

One of my favorite breastfeeding pictures to date!

Photo credit: @vimoverissimo

Moms like Chelsea reiterated the words of all women having a choice.

Hear me roar ??? ”

chelseadreamin

Moms who were photographed at the right moment

Moms in all cities were beautifully photographed, like this breastfeeding mother, by Tara in DC.

Breastfeeding during the @womensmarch on Washington today in Washington DC”

@tararubyphotography

Moms like Alana taught their daughters about HUMAN rights.

Women’s rights are human rights.”

@babiesarenormal

Moms like Cat had a great day marching, while breastfeeding, all the way in Lansing.

We had a wonderful day in Lansing”

@thehadleyhome

Moms like @ketchupisveggie brought all their babies to the march.

FrenchFry and I marching in NOLA today.”

@ketchupisveggie

Moms like Melissa K, who brought her 6 week old daughter Delia for her first march milestone.

Baby Delia’s first march.”

@carablaine

And moms like Stephanie had no words, but the right symbols to show her support.

#normalizebreastfeeding #wearallthebabies #womensrightsarehumanrights #womensmarch #theresistance #wesleymorrishoward #thefutureisfemale“

@mommasomm

How incredible are all these moms?

Photo credit: @noragoldman

How awesome is the solidarity of women to keep doing what they do to normalize breastfeeding and raise children with the mindset to stand up for our beliefs and rights?

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post Moms storm Womens March with breasts, pumps and kids in tow appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Why you need to discuss “Safe” and “Unsafe” touch

Betty Rose — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 21:23:36 +0000

Every parent’s worst fear is having their child subjected to sexual harassment and defilement.

In many communities, most especially traditional ones where the culture keeps kids at bay by the unsaid kids-are-to-be-seen-but-not-heard, listen-to-your-elders, treat-your-elders-with-respect mentality, the topic of “safe” and “unsafe” touch is rarely discussed. But when it is, it’s often because that child has already experienced sexual abuse.

I come from a very traditional pacific island family – traditional in discipline, respect and hospitality towards others. Our family is strict, but loving. Everyone who cared for us did their very best to raise my siblings and I. Yet, I can not recall having a single discussion of unwanted touch.

Like many parents, those who took care of us may have relied on the education system to discuss puberty and all things surrounding it, including its dangers.

I remember asking an Uncle (my guardian at that time) what the word “masturbation” was, which I had read in a women’s fit magazine. I was in 7^th grade then and with my sheltered life, I really had no clue. His response? “You know what that is,” and he quickly walked away. But, I didn’t know. And I didn’t know the definition for a very long time.

Needless to say, I never had the “unsafe touch” discussion with any adult. I slowly learned what molestation, sexual assault, sexual harassment and rape was by watching the news or seeing it in movies where it was part of the plot. Honestly, I think majority of my awareness of sexual offense came from watching Law & Order: SVU. How sad is that?

No child should have to learn the way I did and there are two important reasons why.

First, unguided children may not know how to react when someone is sexually abusing them.

Research shows that victims of sexual abuse are abused by the closest persons they trust most – family, relatives, family friends, their parents, coaches, neighbors, etc. If children are not taught to report the incident, they won’t report it. If they are not taught to say, “No!”, they won’t say it.

If they are taught to respect every elder and not answer back, how does a child tell an elder who is abusing them to “Stop!” without feeling that they are breaking a cardinal rule of respect (which, in many families during my childhood, resulted severe consequences, like multiple spankings and having privileges taken away)?

Secondly, children need to know how to help other children who confide in them.

My heart aches knowing that a very dear person who confided in me continued to get abused because my response to her initial confidence. I effectively said, “Tell me when it happens again.”

How could I be so naïve? How come I didn’t report it?!

I should have known better, but I didn’t – and it’s because no one ever spoke to me about sexual abuse.

Her abuser is no longer able to abuse others, however there are still sexual predators and offenders out there in the midst of our company. We need to prepare our children to be aware of this.

I encourage everyone to tune into Bump Club & Beyond’s webinar on “How to talk to your kid about body safety”.

Please help parents become more comfortable in talking about an uncomfortable subject.

Share this article and register to the event. The event is free and only requires you to register using your email address. The webinar goes live on Wednesday, January 18 at 6PM PST (8PM CST). Register here.

Have questions or want more parenting resources? Go to www.bumpclubandbeyond.com or sign up here for a lifetime of free webinars and hundreds of BCBVIP perks.

The Guam Daily Post published an original version of this article.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post Why you need to discuss “Safe” and “Unsafe” touch appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

5 Popular (yet annoying) Parenting Advice Tips that You Should Ignore

Betty Rose — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 20:43:24 +0000

Nothing is more annoying than drowning your excitement of having a child with the “fear” other parents set in.

If you’ve been given unsolicited advice (you know, the remarks about your new chapter in life called “Parenthood” that are eye-rolling inducing), just chuck it out the window.

This time last year, my fiancé and I were excitedly sharing the news of our new bundle of joy that would be on the way. We were SO EXCITED. In our early 30’s, we were finally joining our groups of friends in Parenthood, which everyone had been waiting for, for years. While there were so many “Congratulations!” and well wishes, there were also those who were honest about having children and dulled the moment.

These were common sayings I had heard before about having children. But having it said directly to me, now that I was with a child, was SO ANNOYING. I wish people would just stop with the unsolicited-having-children-is-going-to-suck-the-life-out-of-you remarks and just “chuck it”. Let new parents embrace what is coming.

5 Annoying comments to stop saying to expectant and new parents

1.You’ll never sleep

This was always an “EYE-ROLLER” for me. It was just annoying to hear it over and over and over again from friends to family members to the grocery store clerk or the customer service agent on the phone.

Yes, I didn’t realize how much “good” sleep I wouldn’t get, especially during the first few months, but I did sleep. And anyhow, how was I supposed to prepare for “never sleeping”? Was I supposed to sleep longer before the baby arrived? Or put in more naps every day before she was born?

Exhaustion is a better term to describe this. Yes, new parents, you’ll be exhausted and have less sleep, but you will be able to do it! When you’re up and awake, know that you’ll be spending that time with this precious little being in your arms and he or she (or they) will steal your heart with every breath you take. Babies grow so fast, sometimes you’ll find yourself watching over your child while they sleep, than choosing to sleep yourself.

2. Say Good-Bye to Fun

So common – and every time I heard this phrase, I gave the person my Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson eyebrow. But, new parents, fun doesn’t stop – it just changes, and you WILL enjoy it.

If going out and partying on the weekends was your thing – it doesn’t mean you can’t do that anymore. If you plan to go to an event, have the right arrangements made and be responsible about it. You can still have that kind of fun. It might not be as often as you had before you had a child, but it isn’t cut out of your life.

We had family visiting in out of country the week my girl was born. When I felt well enough to leave the house, we spent time with my cousins to bowling or showing them around Seattle or staying up past 10 pm just catching up over junk food. That was fun for us and still an appropriate environment for the baby.

So, “fun” is what you make of your time. New parents shouldn’t be told to limit themselves to thinking having a child is the end of all social life. In fact, they’re just adding a new person to bond with, which is THE foundation of fun.

3. There goes all your spending money

Yes, raising a child is expensive. Diapers are over $100 a month, formula is some areas are over $35 a can, child care is the same amount as rent in some cities and medical bills can go through the roof. But, that is part of growing up and being an adult – spending your money on things that you should invest in, like your child.

As new parents, you’ll probably end up spending a lot on your first child anyway because you’ll instinctively want to get him or her the best of everything. While there won’t be as much freedom to by clothes or shoes or tickets to the game or concert, if you budget properly, you can still have some spending money for yourself. You are SO entitled to that because parents need things, too.

4. The Sarcastic, “Good luck!”

I probably heard this more from non-parents than parents. The truth is, the people who have said this probably didn’t babysit or have any time with kids growing up. They therefore lack experiencing the joy that comes with having a little one to care for.

“Good luck,” might be their only way to say, “Cool story, bro.” Take it at that and nothing more. It may have been my hormones while I was pregnant, but when someone would say that to me, it just made me irritated. I equated it to someone having a dilemma and that person saying, “Have fun dealing with it on your own.”

When you have kids, you don’t need luck. You’ll find all the strength you never knew you had within yourself, and if you reach out to parenting groups, you’ll find a community of parents that will support you along the way.

5. Don’t have any more than one – you’ll go crazy.

While I didn’t hear the “you’ll go crazy” phrase too often, just hearing another parent say not to have any more than one child was slightly insulting.

Did they think right off the bat I wouldn’t be fit to care for more than one child? Did they think I wouldn’t make a cute baby (because EVERY baby is cute to me)? If my mom is one of eight and her mom is one of nine, why wouldn’t I want a large family?

Don’t listen to this – EVER. Have as many children as you want to have. They can be planned or unplanned, but do as you please responsibly.

New Parents, this is your life and no one else’s. Live and parent the way you desire.

Reach out to groups that provide parenting support, get recommendations and suggestions from friends. And if people start giving you annoying advice, just “chuck it.”

Let’s stop Scaring New parents by saying they’ll get no sleep, have no money, or no life. Let’s prepare them to embrace all the good that is to follow.

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld

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Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

How breastfeeding moms can get their way with one phrase

Betty Rose — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 02:31:11 +0000

“I’m eating for two” is the expression I’ve always heard when pregnant moms would justify themselves for over-indulging in meals, desserts and snacks that they would normally not have if they weren’t pregnant. I was waiting for that moment my entire pregnancy, but unfortunately for me, I could not hold anything down or eat more than my usual serving. However, my appetite returned after I gave birth. So, when I read that my body needed 500 more calories than usual to help sustain breast milk production, I went to town with “It’s for the breast milk.” And I’m still not ashamed to do so.

8 smart ways to use “It’s for the breast milk.” to your advantage

When you want third servings of anything

I mean, I already had seconds, but it’s just too good to stop there. If they judge me, they should know I’m doing this for my daughter.
“Please pass the BBQ ribs this way – it’s for the breast milk.”

When you want cookies… just because

Works best if the package has the word “lactation” on it, but if it doesn’t, you can still get away with convincing the family of your rights.
“I can eat all the cookies I want because it’s for the breast milk.”

When there is ONLY ONE piece of dessert left

You know, when you and your brother are both staring down at the last Oreo macaroon left and you need a really good excuse as to why you deserve it more than he does.
“Bro, it’s for the breast milk.” #winner

When you’ve got a sweet tooth at work

When your Boss constantly catches you with a piece of chocolate from the “free candy” bowl set out for guests.
“Boss, I can’t help it – it’s for the breast milk.”

When you’re sharing fries

When you’re sharing McDonald’s fries with your other half and you want his share, too.
“Babe, do you mind if I have the rest of these? It’s for the breast milk.”

When your friend is paying for lunch

I mean, don’t be greedy about it. If they’re a good friend, they’ve got your back.
“I’ll have the fresh spring rolls, the fried spring rolls, a #8, #9…and a taro bubble tea, please. Thanks, BFF, it’s for the breast milk.”

When your other half is on a health kick, but you ARE NOT

My fiancé once bought me a reduced-fat, organic wheat muffin breakfast sandwich from Starbucks. I was so disappointed.
“Babe, what are you doing to me? I need all the fat I can get – it’s for the breast milk.”

When you’re picky about food

The time you’re visiting Madre’s house and the only thing to eat isn’t one of your favorites.
“Oh, Madre, I’m so sorry I can’t have any of this – it’s (not good) for the breast milk.”

Of course, these are all just excuses to have your way with food, which is my weakness. If you’re looking for healthy alternatives,fruit is a great substitute for the above, because eating thirds or the whole box of cookies isn’t necessary…or necessarily healthy. If you’re a foodie like I am, then give it a try!

No one dares to question a mom and her food choices “for the breast milk.” Do you have some personal favorites that get you far with food? Share them in a comment below!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld

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Betty Rose

www.facebook.com/TheMomLifeColumn/

The post How breastfeeding moms can get their way with one phrase appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Betty Rose – Breastfeeding World

What is World Breast Pumping Day?

January 27, 2018, the breastfeeding community celebrated World Breast Pumping Day!

This movement is Necessary

This year’s them is “Pumping Moms Get Sh!t Done.”

What this means and how you can participate

So, on Jan 27, we took to social media- you can too

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

See darling photos of the breastfeeding people of Guåhan (Guam)

Erica Farwell Photography captures Breastfeeding World’s first ever Guam Photo Shoot:

Breastfeeding World has grown so much over the few short years of its existence.

Quick Facts About Guåhan (Guam)

An island full of diversity

Guåhan’s Iconic Latte Stone Park

Capturing the Spirit of Guåhan

Bridging the Gap between local and military families

Sharing resources as a community is the goal

Resources for Local Moms and Military Families

What attendees had to say

The weather was worth it

There was nothing we could do but laugh and spin our facial sweat as a “glowing” part of the portraits. (Insert chuckle here.)

Empowering and encouraging mothers is our mission

Creating a Community

Beyond the photos, beyond the raffles, was the highlight of creating a community, then connecting mothers with each other face to face.

Sharing impact

Connecting in Struggles and Triumphs through Breastfeeding

Building Breastfeeding World Awareness

Guåhan’s success in creating a breastfeeding friendly community lies within the work of local organizations.

A Successful Event by Community Support

A Very Special Thank You

Welcome to Breastfeeding World, Guam!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Moms Are Eager For Next Year’s Seattle Big Latch On

Lots of excitement to make it happen

Strong bonds for building a community

How does participating in the Big Latch On impact our community?

Moments captured remain the highlight of the day

Thank you to our Sponsors

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Announcing Breastfeeding World in Seattle for the Big Latch On!

Making History, One Event at a Time

The Latch

What to expect at a Global Big Latch On location?

What Can You Expect from Breastfeeding World’s Downtown Seattle Big Latch On?

How to Participate in Our Downtown Seattle Big Latch On

Did I tell you about our amazing donors & contributors who are donating to your Swag Bags and Giveaways?

Kindred Bravely

Baltic Essentials

I can’t Wait to meet you at our First Ever Downtown Seattle Big Latch On

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Why Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag is the best gift I’ve ever received

The only thing I wanted for Christmas last year from my other half was a Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag.

I’m just a new mom who carries way too many bags – daily.

All that changed on Christmas

Amazing Annie

Pumparoo Perk

The Fabulous Features

Direct access storage pockets for breast pumps

Thermally Lined Pockets

Water-resistant, easy-to-clean materials

Lifetime guarantee

Accessories

The amazing part of it?

Made for every Mom in Mind

Not just Totes

What if lugging around a large bag isn’t your style?

Shoulder Bag

Messenger Bag

Fanny Pack

Back Pack

Stroller BFF

Sarah Wells demo