The Great Cloth Diaper Change - a Great Success!

Were you at a Great Cloth Diaper Change event this year?

As you know, we hosted an event site, and as I alluded to in yesterday's post, we ran into a bit of a snag. Well, in reality, it was a whole bunch of "snags" in the form of snow flakes. As in - all over the ground, and in a huge pile behind the store where we planned to hold the event (like last year).

You remember, right? In the soft green grass behind the store with the warm sun shining on us and all the sweet babies?

Last year's outdoor Great Cloth Diaper Change

Alas, that was not meant to be this year, though.

Oh well.

At the beginning of the week we knew that outside wouldn't be an option because of more forecasted snow, and of course the huge amount we already had received the previous week. We figured you all wouldn't appreciate changing your sweet babies on the ground. in the snow. when it was 30 degrees outside. So, Shelly found a new venue, and we were super blessed to be able to use the Sioux Falls Lutheran School gym, just a block away from the store.

Because of the change in venue, we decided we should also probably change the plan for eating too...originally we were going to have an outside BBQ after the event. Clearly that wasn't going to be the best option. So, one of our awesome sponsors, Staff of Life Bakery provided delicious breakfast of rolls and cookies. And I do mean *delicious*...if you were there and didn't have anything, you totally missed out!

So we had about 44 parent/baby pairs come to participate in the change (plus siblings, friends, and spouses), which even though is less than last year, is totally awesome considering the local natural "disaster" issues that people were dealing with and the last minute changes in our event.

This year's super awesome Great Cloth Diaper Change in Sioux Falls :)

Worldwide, evidence is still being submitted, and we don't know yet if the record from last year was broken. Hopefully we'll find out soon! We'll be keeping you all up to date as we know more!

The bottom line is that it was a success! The Great Cloth Diaper Change was started by the Real Diaper Association as a fun way to bring awareness to how beneficial real, reusable diapers are for families, babies, and the environment. Not only that, but seriously - cloth diapering is NOT as difficult as one would first think. Today's fluff is definitely not like what our moms and grandmas used to use!

So, be on the lookout for the update on whether or not we have broken the world record this year or not - we'll keep you updated! And mark your calendars for next year's event - I'm guessing it will be on the same Saturday (the one closest to Earth Day), but we'll let you know for sure once we know :).

Thanks so much to those of you who participated, and we look forward to seeing even more of your smiling faces and adorable babies participating next year!

~Evie

Time for Gratitude - Snow, Ice, and More Winter

Ice and snow, ice and snow.

Dumb weather.

I know that it's pretty cliche to talk about the weather these days - especially with the bizarr-o and explicitly NOT spring-type weather we have had here in the Midwest this month.

Two weeks ago schools across much of the state cancelled classes THREE days in a row. In April. It was nuts.

The kiddos and Randall built a couple totally awesome snowmen

There was massive damage in eastern SD because of a pretty intense ice storm followed by snow that just dumped and didn't want to stop. I-90 was closed from Sioux Falls to Rapid City (for those of you that don't know, that spans almost the entire width of the state. Yeah. It's a long way.

The week after that (so we're talking about last week now), there was another snow storm. Less damage occurred during that one, and less schools were cancelled, but lots of snow came, nonetheless. We had to change the venue for The Great Cloth Diaper Change (which turned out pretty awesome, by the way - if you weren't there, you totally missed out! More on that later, though) at the last minute, and when I drove to Sioux Falls on Friday morning, I-90 pretty much sucked, and there were a lot of trucks and cars in the ditch. Awesome.

Then TWO days ago we got more snow. Yet again.

Randall has said that he's shoveled more this month than he did all of last year combined. I even got to shovel and play in the snow the other day.

Throughout all this, I've seen all kinds of comments about the weather, both good and bad, from people around here in the last few weeks. Most of them are bad, but a few of them are in favor of it.

As for me, I think there are both good and bad things about it. First of all the bad: It's super hard on livestock, particularly now when it's calving season. I'm sure a ton of baby calves and other babies have been lost, and that's super hard on ranchers. Also, personally, I think it kind of blows that we don't even have buds on trees yet, and we haven't been able to take the kids to the park or spend a ton of time outside. I totally dig taking the kids on walks and we simply haven't been able to yet. *sad face*. Lastly, it can be hard on anyone's psyche to be stuck inside for such a long time. I think generally people around here are simply ready for winter to be over. I know I am.

Now for the good: Last I heard we are still actually considered to be in a drought. That's how little moisture we got last year. Precipitation - no matter what kind - is kind of awesome. I know my garden appreciates it, as do all of the trees, lawns, and fields around here...not to mention the farmers who had a simply awful year last year. Also, a spring snowstorm is great for cuddling with the family on the couch and no matter who you are, it's hard to argue that a blanket of pure white snow over everything is simply beautiful. Not only that, but it only lasts a short time - seriously - our snow is actually getting close to being completely melted already! Altogether we got at least 2 feet, and I have to say that I'm digging seeing some green grass under it all as it slowly disappears! :)

On Monday when we woke up to more snow falling, Vienna - still a little groggy and quite incredulously - said "Mommy is it really snowing again?!" "Yes", I answered. In her super-amazing, five-year-old optimism and wisdom said "Well, we need the moisture, so it's ok."

So, instead of being sad that winter still wasn't over, we looked at the positive side of things. We were getting moisture that farmers desperately need, and spring-type weather will be here before we know it. To emphasize our outlook, we decided that we would bring spring to our house, whether or not the weather outside agreed.

So we made a flower garden, complete with butterflies. It was awesome, and the kids loved it. We have it set up in the living room, and it will remain there until spring catches up to the date. Until then, we will be grateful for whatever moisture we get.

But for real?

I'm ready for 50-60 degree weather and rain instead of snow *wink*

~Evie

AppleCheeks, Baby!

So...did you see our post on facebook the other day about the AppleCheeks promotion this month?

Check it out:

For every $20 you spend on AppleCheeks products, you will be entered to win an AppleCheeks Microterry bundle! Good on purchases made in the store and online, so don't miss out on your chance to WIN!

Good luck!

My Generation - a GCDC Sponsor

The name of our business is My Generation we have a store on Main Avenue in Brookings, SD. We have maternity and nursing items, super adorable baby and children's clothing, toys and blankets, babywearing wraps, slings and carriers, cloth diapers, amber teething necklaces, handmade items of all kinds, dance, cheer and gymnastics wear, and many other boutique items. We opened our doors October 8th, 2012 – I can't believe it has been 6 months already!

Our business started all because of my love of working with new and expectant families. I became a certified doula 10 years ago and then a few years after that became a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator and then a La Leche League Peer Counselor. Throughout my time working with these families, I discovered a need for a place that offered products that my clients wanted and/or I was recommending to them. Since there wasn’t a local place to get these items, they would order them in from the internet, for instance a wrap, and I would find myself helping them – gladly of course – but also thinking to myself that we really need that personal connection of someone with a real brick and mortar retail shop carrying not only these items, but the personal attention that my clients desired. We didn't even have a location for new maternity clothes at all in Brookings.

I saw my opportunity when a large retail store closed on Main Avenue here in Brookings and was then divided into 3 separate shops, and I jumped.I am slowly bringing in those many items that the people in our area really want a hometown mom and pop shop to purchase from.

My business is special because I not only have that experience working with new and expectant families, but we have 6 children ourselves and I consider it our family store. I welcome people to bring in their children and babies and we have a "nursing nook" for nursing moms to stop in with their kiddos, nurse, and relax while shopping downtown.

In five years I hope to be continuing to form close, supportive friendships with my clients and bringing in more and more items they are searching for.

We have a facebook page at My Generation Brookings, SD where we sell items through and ship them all over the U.S., a website being constructed now, our phone number is 605-692-2999 and email is mygeneration@brookings.net. We just recently started a Twitter page too. 

Childbirth Professional Day - Meet Niki Johnson

1. What is your Childbirth Profession?
I am a Doula and Childbirth Educator.

2. Describe your profession and why someone would want to choose your profession for support in pregnancy and/or childbirth.
A doula is a professional support person. A doula does many things for the birthing couple. A doula offers physical and emotional support to the birthing couple and educates and informs parents of their options in Childbirth. A doula is an advocate for the couple and can help them maintain their birth plan or explain options when there needs to be a deviation from that plan. Having a doula can help to alleviate fear of the birth process, and a doula can offer suggestions on positioning and comfort measures to help facilitate a smoother birth. A doula is also an independent person working for the couple who can offer continuity of care from the home to the hospital and between the changing shifts at the hospital.

A childbirth educator is a person who teaches about pregnancy, labor, and birth. As an independent educator, I am not steeped in one method, or one hospitals standard operating procedure. I teach the anatomy of pregnancy, the physiology of labor and birth, exercise and nutrition as the base of a healthy pregnancy, relaxation and other pain management techniques, and complimentary therapies for the childbearing year. The most important thing you as a parent can take away from childbirth classes is the ability to become a consumer of your health care and your own responsibility in keeping your pregnancy healthy.

3. Why did you get started in your profession?

I had a really 'normal' birth experience with my oldest. An induced birth at 37 weeks after an inversion from breech, an epidural, flat on my back pushing, an episiotomy, etc. My son was premature, apparently my due date was off, and was in the NICU for 10 days with a collapsed lung and feeding issues. I then went on to have nursing problems due to his having a bottle in the hospital. It left me feeling inept to care for my son when I took him home. Those experts who told me to trust them didn't come home and parent for me. I had to regain my confidence as a mother. When I had my second, I educated myself and decided against all the interventions in hopes of having a healthier baby, an easier labor, and an easier recovery. I found out that in order to have the kind of birth I envisioned I would need support. In our society birth is seen as scary, dangerous, and a job for the professionals. In reality a couple must do it, just like they must change the diapers, feed, and care for their children. I decided after my second was born that the most integral things to my journey were taking independent childbirth classes, not hospital protocol readiness, and hiring a doula to help me during labor to stay on track with my plans. After doing it for 8 years, I have realized that women who are empowered during their births have an easier time making decisions for their children all around. She becomes an advocate for her family!

4. In detail, what is your personal childbirth philosophy?

That birth is a normal physiological event, albeit an intense transition into parenting, it prepares us for the amazing gift of being parents. I believe that God has made our bodies and our babies to working synergistically. Keeping birth normal means not intervening into it unless truly medically necessary. Our society sees birth as a disease needing to be cured, not a family event that needs to be supported and celebrated!

5. If you could tell all pregnant women in the world something, what would it be?

Trust your inner instinct. It is still there, it may be hidden or pushed down way inside, but it is there. No one knows your body or your baby better than you do!

6. How long have you been in your profession? Are you certified? If yes, by which entity?

I have been a doula for 8 years, I originally certified through DONA international. I am certified through ICEA as a childbirth educator

7. Do you have a business name? How can people contact you for pregnancy and childbirth support?

BirthingWISE is Women Inspired Support & Education. I can be contacted at 605-351-4207, or wisebirthing@gmail.com

8. Where do you practice?

As a doula I work anywhere, if you are having a hospital birth I can labor with you at home and in the hospital, if you are having a home birth, I labor with you at home! I take clients in Sioux Falls, and am willing to travel. As a childbirth educator, I teach out of local chiropractors office.

Staff of Life Bakery - A GCDC Sponsor!

As you all know, the Great Cloth Diaper Change is coming up SUPER SOON (make sure and register so we are sure to have enough witnesses and be able to qualify for the Guinness tm World Record)!!

To bring this awesome and fun event to you, our supporters, we couldn't do it without some amazing sponsors. This year we have three different levels of sponsors, and as part of the highest level sponsorship, the businesses will be featured here so you can get to know them a bit more and show them some local-small-business-love!

So, the first business we will feature here is the fantastic new bakery in town, Staff of Life. You can learn a bit more about this bread ministry in the profile that follows.

Thank you, Kyle and Niki for being a sponsor of this awesome event!!

What is the name of your business and where is it located/operated from?

SOL-Bakery-Home based bread delivery service in Sioux Falls, SD

What products do you sell or services do you provide?

We sell artisan breads, true sourdoughs, cookies, sweet rolls, & scones.

What makes your business/products special?

We are a bread ministry program who helps feed the hungry in our community. Through our Compassion Bread Program our customers can donate $2 and we prepare a loaf of compassion bread to be donated to local families, the hunger initiatives, and benevolent programs. We also deliver fresh baked goods to home, work, or school 4 days per week, and are the only sprouted & soaked grain bakery in our area.

Where do you see your business in five years?
We see our business operating at a larger scale, in a commercial space with a retail side, and a charitable giving side so people can enjoy & spread the bread!

How can people get a hold of you for products/services?

Website www.staffoflifebakery.com 
Facebook www.Facebook.com/SOLbakery
Email www.staffoflifebaker@gmail.com
Phone 605-351-8503

Is Baby Getting ENOUGH??

As a birth doula, I get asked pretty often by clients if their baby is getting enough milk when they nurse. Particularly in those first days and weeks when baby is getting just colostrum for awhile and then when mama's milk "comes in".

Have you ever wondered if your baby is getting enough?

Following is an excerpt borrowed from La Leche League's "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding" that may help answer your question.

How will you know if your baby is getting enough milk? He is probably getting enough to eat if he nurses every two or three hours. Is he "filling out" and putting on weight? Growing in length? Active and alert? A "yes" to these questions is an indication that your baby is thriving.

A quick, easy way to reassure yourself that your infant is getting enough milk is to check the number of wet diapers. If he has six to eight really wet cloth diapers a day (five to six disposable diapers), you can be sure he is getting plenty of milk. Frequent bowel movements are also a sign that baby is getting enough to eat. For the first six weeks or so, a breastfed baby will usually have two to five bowel movements a day.

From time to time, your doctor will weigh the baby as a way of measuring his physical progress. Some babies never lose an ounce from the day they're born, and put on weight with the greatest of ease. Most babies lose some weight during the first week but get back to birth weight by two to three weeks of age. After that, a pound a month, or four to eight ounces a week, is usually considered an acceptable gain, although some babies gain as much as a pound a week in the early months. Family characteristics and the baby's individual makeup need to be considered. Remember - healthy, happy babies come in all shapes and sizes. Both the quite fat and the very slim baby can be normal and healthy. Neither bigness nor smallness is a reason for concern as long as the baby's food is human milk and nursings are according to his needs. If you feed your baby in the way that is naturally intended for the human infant, his weight gain will be what is natural for your particular child.

With regard to baby's size and appetite, Malinda Sawyer of Missouri observes, "Mothers who give birth to large babies and mothers who give birth to small babies have at least one thing in common: They can expect to have their ability to totally breastfeed the baby questioned."

Marian Tompson, one of La Leche League's co-Founders, remembers when two of her nieces had identical weights of seventeen pounds - but one baby was six months old and the other was one and on-half years old. Yet the doctor for each was satisfied that the baby was healthy.

Don't forget that Sioux Falls La Leche League meets this Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Educated Mommy! We hope to see you then!

~Evie

Cloth Diaper 101 - Just the Basics

As you probably know, this month marks a really big and fun event on the 20th. 

If you don't know what it is, just take a look at the right side of this window right now....do you see it?.....yep, we are hosting the Great Cloth Diaper Change again this year! More on that later, though.

For today, let's talk cloth diapers in general and a few different things you'll need to think about.

So you've decided to cloth diaper your babe - Congratulations! You have made a good decision that will help you save money in the long run, will help reduce the amount of stinky diapers in our landfills, will help your sweet baby's skin stay healthy (no chemicals in cloth!), and of course, will make your baby the most stylish on the block - who can resist a fluffy butt?! ;) 

The first thing you'll need to do is decide what kind(s) of cloth diapers to use. But how do you know?

Well, a really good first step is to just research all of the different options. They truly run the gamut on functionality, ease of use, and price. So, take a look at your options. It may work best for you to use a combination of different kinds, too. There are pros and cons to all of the different kinds, so just educate yourself or find a class that can help (like Educated Mommy's Cloth Diaper 101 that's offered the first Saturday of each month - yep - that's TOMORROW for this month!). 

You'll also obviously need to take into consideration your budget. You can cloth diaper for incredibly cheap, or for a whole lot of money. It completely depends on you and what you want. Here is a chart that I put together last year of a well stocked cloth diaper stash with lots of variety, and an estimation of cost:

After you decide which kinds to get based on your budget, you'll need to decide where to get them. The market is pretty saturated with different manufacturers who make diapers. There are many retail stores that carry them. There are a ton of Work At Home Moms that make them. You need to purchase them from where you feel comfortable spending your money. The one thing I would suggest is to really think about where your money is going. I would like to encourage you to buy local and buy small (from a small business or WAHM)! ;)

You will also need to consider what type of laundry detergent to use. There are many out there that are cloth diaper safe. Just make sure that whatever detergent you are using is, in fact, safe for your dipes. Many main-stream detergents will build up on your diapers and make them less absorbent, and can actually ruin them. When I was cloth diapering, this was a bit of a trial and error. I tried several different kinds, and there was at least one (maybe two - I can't remember for sure) that reacted pretty severely with my little-one's sensitive skin (it actually gave him blisters - I felt so bad!). Even though it was completely and 100% natural. Once I found one that I liked I just stuck with it.

Of course, then there are also a bunch of different accessories to think about and decide if you want them. Things like diaper sprayers, extra wet bags, cloth wipes, extra soakers, etc, etc. Most of these I didn't use with our little one, but if there are more babies in our future, I will likely get all of them eventually. My first investment? *Definitely* a sprayer.

So, that's about it for a cloth diaper overview. If you are interested in learning more about cloth diapers, or have some specific questions for our experts, make sure to register for and come to our class tomorrow morning! You won't regret it! :)

~Evie

Time for Gratitude - I'm a Bad Parent

Do you ever feel judged as a parent?

I do.

It also seems like whenever I'm around people that I feel judged by, the kids will always be more whiny/obstinate/clingy/disobedient/etc. I don't know why. Maybe I'm just more sensitive to it and they actually aren't acting out more than normal - it just seems like it.

I usually feel like they think I don't discipline enough or at the right times. I feel like they think I hold and comfort the kids more than I should, that I "coddle" them and allow them to walk all over me.

It doesn't matter how often I hear that I'm doing a good job at this whole mothering thing, or how often I hear how well behaved and well adjusted the kids are. I still feel judged.

I had decided a long time ago - even before we had kids - that:

• I would be the type of mommy that holds, kisses and snuggles. All.the.time. 
• I also wanted to be very careful of what I spoke over the kids. As the Bible says, the power of life and death is in the tongue. I know how powerful words can be, and whether or not the kids can hear me when I say things, I'm *very* careful what I say about them out loud. 
• I never wanted to be a mom who answers questions with "just because". 
• I was set on being a mom who chooses her battles. After all - is it really *that* big of a deal that the kids want to wear a swimsuit around the house when it's 40 below zero outside?

Most of these things I have stuck to pretty well - with some exceptions, of course.

• I do hold, kiss and snuggle. A lot. No, it's not all the time like I planned, but it is a lot.
• I am careful of what I speak over them, though I of course have slip-ups. 
• There are some questions that have no other answer than "just because". Period. 
• I do choose my battles, but since we live in a drafty old house, I do make them put actual clothes on in the winter. Most of the time.

One of the most important things, though, I think, is nurturing who they are. Nurturing their gifts and letting them lead me. I shouldn't be telling them who to be and "toughening them up". I feel like it's very important to be honest with them, and to let them chose their own path with just my guidance - not my control. That's what I'm here for, really. To be a guide for them. To train them in what they will need to succeed in life and to be who they are and to use their gifts to their fullest potential.

I'm learning as I go and making lot's of mistakes along the way. But it's my job to be their protector, comforter, and guide.

So, I'm going to nurture Porter's tender heart and his need to be with me almost constantly. I'm going to answer Vienna's gazillion questions and hopefully only rarely have to answer "just because". I'm going to laugh at Porter's silliness and also help him to understand when it's appropriate to be serious. And I'm going to allow and encourage Vienna to be her beautiful creative self in everything she does. I'm also going to hold them, "coddle" them, and love on them as much as possible. Because I know it will all be over too soon.

If that makes me a bad parent because I don't discipline enough or toughen them up enough, then I guess I'm thankful that I'm a bad parent.

~Evie

Mark Your Calendars - April Events!

I've been thinking that I should start letting you all know what's going on in the coming month here on the blog so you...well...know what's going on :). April seems like a great time to begin...after all, we've got some pretty fun events coming up this month!

We always have a lot of events, classes, etc, etc, going on at the store, and this month is no different. So, without further ado, here's what's happening in April - Mark Your Calendars!! (if it's easier for you to view a calendar, you can check it out at this link)

Elegant Mommy Specials and Events

• The Great Cloth Diaper Change 2013!
• We are once again hosting a Great Cloth Diaper Change event on 4/20/13 at 10:00 a.m.
• Join us as we attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the most babies changed into cloth diapers at the same time throughout the world!
• We will have vendor booths, door prizes, an outdoor BBQ, and our diaper consignment event Diapapallooza! 
• You won't want to miss this awesome opportunity to have your baby be part of history! To find out more and register (registration is required), check out our online registration HERE.
• See you on the 20th!

Educated Mommy Events

• Milk Monologues - Every Wednesday, 1:00 p.m.
• If you have a newborn, you won't want to miss this support group that meets every Wednesday afternoon!
• Babywearing International of Sioux Falls Chapter Meeting
• This chapter meeting is every 2nd Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. and every 4th Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
• Come and learn how to comfortably and safely wear your baby! If you don't have a carrier, no problem - we have lots for you to try out! If you are an experienced babywearer, come and enjoy the company of like minded mamas and maybe learn a new carry or two! 
• International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN) Sioux Falls Chapter Meeting
• ICAN Sioux Falls Chapter Meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.
• ICAN Chapter meetings are open to the public.  We encourage you to join and support your local ICAN chapter so that women in your area will have access to the resources and support of our organization. A local chapter is invaluable in assisting women seeking information about caregivers/ hospitals in her area.  They create opportunities for women of like minds to meet in a safe place to share their experiences and make changes in their community. 
• Prenatal Yoga
• Come join us for an hour of exercise and relaxation! Classes rotate between stretching, relaxation, balance, and strength. These classes are safe for prenatal mothers but can be used by anyone who wants to do yoga! Feel free to bring your own mats and blocks. Mats are not provided and blocks can be used on a first come, first serve basis. (Educated Mommy only has 2 right now!) Mats are not necessary but you are welcome to bring one if you would like. Remember to dress in something comfortable. All sessions end with different relaxation techniques.
• Thursday April 4, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
• Wednesday April 10, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday April 18, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
• Cloth Diaper 101* - April 6, 2013, 9:30 a.m.
• Join our team of experts as they help you navigate the seemingly overwhelming world of cloth diapering. You will be amazed at how easy it actually is! 
• Babywearing 101* - April 6, 2013 10:30 a.m.
• Are you interested in babywearing? Do you wear your baby but want more information? Are you confused at where to even start? Well, look no further! Come to Educated Mommy and learn the basics from some experts! 
•  Rub a Dub Dub, a Baby in Your Own Tub* - April 8, 2013 6:30 p.m.
• "Wait...people actually give birth at HOME??"
  "Homebirth is illegal, isn't it?"
  "Seriously - how safe can homebirth be? I mean, what if something *happens*?!"
  "I thought midwives stopped practicing in the early 1900's."
  "Could I really have a homebirth??"
  If you have ever thought any of these things, or know anyone who has thought these things, join us for a lively discussion on homebirth and who might be interested in having one...maybe even you! 
• La Leche League - April 11, 2013 6:30 p.m.
• La Leche League meetings offer breastfeeding information, support and encouragement in a warm, friendly environment. Topics are open discussions and questions are welcomed from mothers in any stage of breastfeeding. Meetings are open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Bring a friend! Pregnant women are encouraged to attend several meetings before baby arrives. Babies and toddlers are always welcome and nutritious snacks are served
• Going Back to Work* - April 13, 2013, 9:00 a.m.
• Are you heading back to work after baby? How is breastfeeding going to go now? What about pumping? Get the support you need to keep your precious breastfeeding relationship with your little one. 
• Let's Talk About Sex After Baby* - April 15, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
• So, you've had a baby...how long until you can...er....um...you, know.?
  Join us for a candid (and fun!) discussion about how long you should wait after baby to re-engage in intimacy, some of the things you can expect but may not have thought of, and general overall question-answering about this oh, so, important topic! 
• Tea With a Homebirth Midwife* - April 16, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
• Join Debbie Hayden-Miller, eastern South Dakota's practicing out-of-hospital Certified Nurse Midwife! She will be on hand to discuss natural birth, and you will be able to ask her whatever questions you have about homebirth!
• "Face of Birth" Movie Screening* - April 22, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
• Three years in the making, filmed across the globe from London to Alice Springs, The Face of Birth is a movie with vital information for anyone considering giving birth today 
• Happiest Baby on the Block* - April 25, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
•  This class is for expectant parents and parents with newborns up to 6 weeks old. Cost of this class is $40/couple which includes a DVD and white noise CD.
• Stick it To Me Baby* - April 29, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
• There are SO many things that are "standard procedures" for newborns in today's hospitals and Pediatrician Clinics. So, what's truly necessary? What are the pros and cons?
  Learn about everything from the Vitamin K shot, vaccinations, cord clamping and bathing to circumcision...there's just so much to think about!
  Join us as we help you wade through the wealth of information with a discussion on all of it so you can make the *best* decision for your baby.
  After all, that's what we all want, right? The best for our precious little ones. 
• Intro to Natural Birth - April 30, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
• Ever thought about having a natural birth? Not sure if you could do it? Join Ashley from Simply Birth for a FREE one hour session to learn more about what is needed to achieve a natural, unmedicated birth.
  Topics will include:
  ~Benefits of a natural birth
  ~Benefits and risks of medication during labor
  ~Natural ways to manage pain in labor
  ~How birth affects breastfeeding
  ~What you can do to stay healthy & low risk during pregnancy
  If you're pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant this is a great class for you. 
• Cloth Diaper 101* - May 4, 2013, 9:30 a.m.
• Join our team of experts as they help you navigate the seemingly overwhelming world of cloth diapering. You will be amazed at how easy it actually is! 
• Babywearing 101* - May 4, 2013 10:30 a.m.
• Are you interested in babywearing? Do you wear your baby but want more information? Are you confused at where to even start? Well, look no further! Come to Educated Mommy and learn the basics from some experts! 

*Please pre-register at the links provided so we can get a headcount of attendees. We hope to see you there!!