BellaOnline Breastfeeding Subscribers,

I'm so sorry you haven't heard from me in several weeks. I have been busy writing articles, but my big news is that I have begun a course in Lactation Education, and by the end of the year (assuming I pass, of course!) I'll be a Certificated Lactation Educator/Counselor. As a result, I lost track of when my last newsletter was sent.

As I looked over my articles since my last email, I realized I've been on a bit of a support and advocacy theme. It wasn't really intentional, but that seems to be what is inspiring me these last weeks. Below are summaries of my recent articles.

I also just celebrated my !2 year! anniversary writing for the Breastfeeding Site at BellaOnline. I've had such lovely feedback from so many readers, and have been honored to assist some of you on your breastfeeding journey, if only via email! I'd love to hear from you what articles you would still like to see on the site and what topics you'd like me to discuss.

I also really would love to chat with more of you at the Breastfeeding Forum... the link to post a comment or question is below.

I hope everyone had a wonderful and safe Halloween (in the US) and a wonderful (if less spooky) weekend elsewhere in the world.

Breastfeeding Friendly Baby Showers http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art64164.asp
Throwing a baby shower for a mother who plans to breastfeed should pass on images of bottles and pacifiers. Why bottles and pacifiers are subversive images and suggestions for decor alternatives.

California Workplace Lactation Notification Vetoed
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art64039.asp (SB257)
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art63949.asp (AB513)
In October 2009, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor of California failed mothers and children with the veto of two breastfeeding advocacy bills, including California Senate Bill SB257 regarding notification of lactation accommodations for state employees and California Assembly Bill AB513, providing for coverage of lacation consultation services and breast pumps for nursing mothers and babies.

Types of Lactation Professionals http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art63829.asp
When seeking help with breastfeeding, it's important to understand the meanings and qualifications associated with all of the initials and titles that various professionals and lay counselors use.

Breastfeeding and the Nestle Boycott http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art63725.asp
Why do many breastfeeding advocates support a boycott of Nestle products? Is Nestle in violation of the World Health Organization code on marketing infant formula? Should you boycott Nestle products?

Breastfeeding and Conscious Parenting
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art63418.asp
I've often remarked that Breastfeeding is the "gateway drug" to conscious parenting. An exploration of how breastfeeding may lead to other child-centered parenting choices.


Here's the link to the BellaOnline Breastfeeding Forum -- PLEASE come introduce yourself and participate! I want to hear from you!!
http://forums.bellaonline.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=postlist&Board=237

Warmly,
Nicki Heskin, Breastfeeding Editor
http://Breastfeeding.bellaonline.com