Robin and lactnetters,
 The weaning experiences with each of my 4 children
has been different and has been marked in a different
way, sometimes more publicly sometimes privately.
The celebrations have reflected my Jewish background.
I also have several weaning rituals in my files that
others have shared with me.

When my last child weaned a couple of years ago
I gave a brief talk at a women's group at our synagogue
on weaning in the Bible. I'd be happy to share that
talk with anyone who is interested. Send me your
e-mail address and I'll send it on.

When my daughter and I weaned (almost 15 years ago now)
I wrote a ceremony to mark the occasion, also celebrated
in a women's group. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to
find it in the deep recesses of my computer. I'll keep looking
and let you know if I come up with it, if anyone
is interested.

There is also a form of blessing/prayer in Jewish
tradition called Tehinas. Literally, it means supplication,
but it is a form of prayer written for women (by both
women and men). The tehines are written in the vernacular
(traditionally Yiddish or Ladino, now in English as well)
and reflect the deep connection between women's daily lives
and their relationship with God.  I have seen a number
of tehines on nursing and weaning.  I'll look through my files
and tehina books for them.
How will I dissinate them to interested parties?
  Naomi Bar-Yam

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