Real Talk Mothering

Nobody prepares you for how complicated and difficult breastfeeding is. It’s supposedly the most natural thing in the world next to childbirth but there are so many nuanced things that make it complicated.   First of all, women’s bodies are absolutely amazing. There’s that meme that says -  We can make a baby, have a baby, and feed a baby…all without getting out of bed.   Once we deliver a baby, our hormones signal our mammary glands to start producing milk, working in partnership with the baby’s sucking reflex to get it out and flowing. Apparently, in addition to all the necessary nutrients the baby needs to grow every part of its body, our milk also provides the antibodies needed to protect against diseases. It also naturally increases or decreases depending on how much the baby demands by sucking.  There's no denying that this is all amazing. Of course, many people choose to use formula to feed their babies for various reasons, or a combination of breastfeeding an...

Taking care of a newborn would be a cinch if I didn’t also have to take care of a demanding toddler. Everyday is an exercise in practicing patience and reframing my perspective to have a positive attitude and build up the mental and physical stamina to meet the demands of the day.   During this new period of transitioning to a mother of 2, I work hard to constantly remind myself of these truths: The main reason I wanted to have another child was to give my toddler a sibling, a lifelong friend.   This phase is temporary and a tiny blip in the scheme of eternal life and my relationship with my children. I will have my free time again to enjoy my hobbies and develop my talents. I will be able to return to a full-time career and travel to professional conferences. I will have my body back again and not have my wardrobe be dictated by breastfeeding needs. My husband and I will regain our freedom to travel and our spontaneity to go on dates. I will be able to sleep the whole night a...