SigMT

SiG MT 24 "e hoops integrate the spirituality of our culture," she says, adding, " and the story of Two Medicine Lake which is considered sacred." e beading and shells are added as, "danglies which create a noise when baby's sleeping to keep the wind spirits moving." ey also serve as rales, and can be personalized by adding something with special meaning, like a feather or a bell. Beaded stringers from the hoop to the foot of the board, can be untied to release the hoop and for access to the lacing. ese ties adjust as baby grows and can be unlaced to free baby's arms or for changing a diaper. e cradleboard, which can take up to three weeks to construct, sew and bead, also serves as a great portable changing table. The cradleboard was a gift for this dad's medically fragile baby, and though the baby has now outgrown the cradleboard, it will remain as a keepsake. Embroidered red roses edge the black jacket of this cradleboard, designed and used by Weber's youngest son, now 26. Shaia received this cradleboard from her grandmother, designed for her to use with her dolls. e hand-sewn hood holds baby's head snugly, while the colorful jacket laces over baby's clothing and blanket – an ancient tradition supporting today's practice of swaddling. Weber says that her husband, a physical therapist, suggested that she create small pillows for use with the maress, as a knee roll and donut-shaped head roll, which work ergonomically to support baby's circulation. She includes these additions with all cradleboards. While cradleboards give babies, "especially preemies." she says, "the feeling of security they had in the womb, the baby also gets isometric exercise by pushing against the snug jacket." "Once you inhibit babies' motor skills, they begin looking around them, observing their world, which helps their mental development." Weber cradles one of her creations to demonstrate one of her favorite uses for the board – to beat a so double rhythm. "e heartbeat of the womb can be felt when you drum on the board," she demonstrates. "Two beats is the beat of the heart, and the beat of Round Dancers," she adds with a smile, "then your baby will grow up to be a great dancer!" "Men love cradleboards," she states. "ey are so big and their child is so tiny, it gives security as well as providing them a perfect frame for watching their beautiful baby." S MT ~ Mary Ellen Hendrickson finds stories of inspiring humans to be the best medicine for motivation in the 32 years where people have trusted her with their words. Photo Submitted

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