I must say, I am very proud of myself. Breastfeeding is demanding and a huge commitment. It is also a very personal decision and I was really quite surprised by how much I enjoyed the experience. The first week was hard and I was doubtful of my ability and commitment but once both Jack and I got the hang of it it was wonderful. Breastfeeding makes life much easier in my opinion (I've always been terribly lazy about washing bottles!).
I can't tell you how many times during a 3 am feeding I would end up crying from just watching Jack with so much wonder and love flooding my heart. Those nights and memories are something I will cherish forever.
He has taken a bottle very well from day 1 and he has been slowing eliminating feedings by himself. For the past few months, though, he would walk over, tug on my shirt and wine, take a few "tugs" off of the boob and go back to playing. Five minutes later he would be back for more and this process would go on and on. I finally had had enough and we started to do a daily bottle, which began the weaning process. He has had no objections which has made this process much easier on me. Next week, we go down to one feeding (from me) a day (first thing in the morning) and the rest will come from bottles and solid foods.
Again, it's a bittersweet time but I am also REALLY looking forward to having my body belong to me again……if only for a short period of time.
(J took this picture during our fall family photo shoot. Jack was no longer maintaining so he needed a "boob break". Probably one of my favorite photos.)
Lindsey
