I’ve discovered there are different truths for everyone when it comes to breastfeeding.

Burpie time when he      was a little bitty

However, I have also discovered there are universal truths for every…single… mom who decides to make this relationship a top priority. Every mother and child relationship varies from another. Some find their journey almost unbearable in the beginning, but like second nature once things progress. Other moms never have any difficulty in production, latching, or convenience. (Bless Them.)

Below are a few statements I have discovered to be true when speaking with any mom on the breastfeeding.

Not all Breastfeeding Journies are the same

Prior to my sons birth I watched videos on latching. I read blogs on milk production. I also studied every breastfeeding hold there is. None of this really prepared me for what would be my journey with my child.

I learned that babies born prematurely will have a harder time than babies born closer to their due date. Some babies are born with tongue or lip ties that make latching near impossible or can cause extreme pain for mommy. And then there were some mothers that I learned never have a single issue.

From the beginning, I discovered that what Gabriel and I had set before us was uniquely ours. It was a groove that we were going to have to find and a trust we were going to need to build in order to save what was beginning as a set up for failure. Between unapproved formula being administered to my child to nipple shields, we had serious kinks to work out in order to save our unique journey.

You May Not Be Supported

15 months old

Some people just do not understand breastfeeding. Other’s may have had a bad experience and quit early on may try to make you believe that you will, too. They may use phrases like, “You can use formula if this doesn’t work,” or “Don’t be discouraged if in a few days you realize how hard this really is and want to give up.”

While it would be fantastic for all moms to support you, or be amazing to not worry if someone is going to give you a dirty look in the restaurant, this isn’t always the case. You will get stares, you will feel unsupported at times and you will have to simply ignore it.

It is an Emotional Journey

Breastfeeding is the one thing my son and I share that no one else gets to share with him. We women carry our child for 9 months and we go through all that it entails. Once our baby has arrived, they can be quickly “taken” from us and passed around to each grandparent, aunt, friend or in-law there is. Breastfeeding is a way to ensure that mommy and baby have their much-needed time together. It is beneficial and crucial, not only in the first few months, but even for seasoned relationships.

When baby is sick, tired, hurting, teething, scared, clingy, nervous, or unsure, breastfeeding offers a safe haven.

It is what is best for you and your child because it is the path you have chosen.

“The advantages of breastmilk are so astounding that if pregnant women were required mandatory education on the benefits of breastfeeding prior to giving birth, I truly believe that more moms would not only decide to forego the formula, but that they would *try harder when times felt tough.”

*Not intended for those with supply issues or that simply can’t breastfeed.

Not only is it best health wise, it is best because it honestly does not matter if you decide to breastfeed 3 weeks, 3 months, or 3 years. The length of time you breastfeed is what is best for you both because that is your decision.

And it is okay if people don’t get that. It is okay if they think you need to stop. It is okay if they silently criticize. They aren’t your child’s parent.

We are 20 months in.

Breastfeeding Isn’t without Challenges

There may be clogged ducts, mastitis, cracked nipples, latching issues, low milk supplies, and more. But there is also education on each and every one of these challenges. Through research, blogs, support groups like mine on Facebook and counselors or consultants, there is help to overcome these obstacles.

Not all Pediatricians will be supportive or fully educated on breastfeeding. Some may make you feel you aren’t producing enough milk. Some may not understand why you decided to delay feeding solids until baby is a year old. Some may think it selfish and just for your own gain and self pleasure that you are taking this route. Unless your child is malnourished or lacking vital nutrients, then either ignore snide and blatant remarks or find a Pediatrician that is supportive.

Finally, Breastfeeding is for you and your child alone

It can be for the mom who wants to pump and breastfeed, for the mom who wants to supplement and breastfeed, and for the mom who wants to breastfeed exclusively and on demand. It can be for the mom who chooses extended breastfeeding.

Whatever breastfeeding looks like for you, Mama, it is yours, you know best, and it is no ones business to tell you otherwise. You just let it go in one ear and out the other and when someone nods in approval, applauds you, or gets you…you just look them in the eyes, smile and know that they get it!!

Nurse on, Mama!!
XOXO

Rachel Price

Rachel is a mom, writer, & advocate for women at her local crisis pregnancy center. She lives in South Georgia where she raises her son alongside her husband. She is currently in training to become a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor.

www.bananasandbreastmilk.wordpress.com

The post The Truth About Breastfeeding appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

I knew I wanted to breastfeed

And, to breastfeed exclusively. But, I gave little thought to the timeline. I would have said a year, because that is what tends to be the socially acceptable timeframe in our society…and I had yet to be enlightened about extended breastfeeding.

Actor Ryan Gosling September 1, 2003

Fast forward three and a half years, and this momma bear was still going strong and actively breastfeeding. It wasn’t planned, but just happened naturally.  A year came and went, then two years. By that time, it was my intention to let him decide when he was ready for our breastfeeding journey to come to an end. I had seen close mom friends do the same with much success and was going to leave it up to him. It just felt right to let him make that call.

Then life happened

Not long before his third birthday, I fell ill and only got sicker and sicker as time went by.  Before I knew it, a major surgery was on the horizon. My heart was breaking. Such a beautiful and special time in our lives, as mother and son, would be abruptly ending whether either of us was ready. This was not the ending I had planned or that I wanted. Yet it was unavoidable.

I nursed him up until the morning of my surgery. We talked at length about the whats, whys and everything in between. He knew it was coming. But, he was sad. He wasn’t ready either. Leaving him that morning, I thought that our journey was at its end and that we had closed the book on this chapter in our lives ever.  Yet, after surgery and recovery, we continued on for almost two more months, until my health and the medications would just no longer allow it. The last time wasn’t anything special or big, yet I don’t think I will ever forget it.

When I look back on how our journey ended, it reminds me of his birth

While I didn’t have a concrete birth plan, how he came was so very unexpected and unplanned. I wanted and planned on him coming when he was ready, and on his terms. Yet my body had other ideas. You know what they say about the best-laid plans….

He nursed for longer than most littles in our society. We had, had an amazing run in the breastfeeding department.  While I knew I shouldn’t, I still felt guilty.  I had to learn to give myself some grace.  I had given him so much throughout our time breastfeeding, and how it ended wouldn’t and didn’t take anything away from that.

Three and a quarter years. Thirty-eight months. One-thousand-one-hundred-and-eighty days

I will cherish every moment forever…no matter how or why it ended. From the first time he nursed to the last, every moment was special and every moment belonged to just him and I.

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Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

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Allyson Lux

I am a single mom to the most amazing little boy in the entire world. He is the light of my life! We also have the two sweetest doggies who complete our little family. I am a high school teacher and a photographer, and am very passionate about breastfeeding, babywearing, attachment parenting, and raising my son in the most natural way possible!

www.myluxphotography.wix.com/home

The post The End appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

As with most big life lessons, we tend to resist at first. Change is hard. Sometimes it takes weeks, months, or years of banging our heads against a wall before we realize that the wall is not going to move. Then we finally take four steps to the left and continue on our way.

Breastfeeding was my wall. I wanted my baby to feed when it was convenient for me. Not when I was tired. Not when I was cooking. I needed my toddler to let go when I told her to. No, not in a minute. Right now! When I was tandem nursing a toddler and a newborn, the toddler wanted to nurse every time the newborn did. Why oh why?

Numerous times I questioned breastfeeding, I questioned myself, and I blamed my kids for being “high needs.”

Then, I took four steps to the left. I let the house get messy. My husband cooked dinner upon arriving from work. I realized that my toddler took a minute to unlatch because she had milk in her mouth and she needed to swallow it.  When I took a step back and looked at the big picture, I realized that the “breastfeeding problems” were not problems at all. They were my children’s refusal to conform to my unrealistic expectations.  I am so grateful to my children for giving me the opportunity to recognize this.  They were and still are teaching me that compassion is more important than rules.

As I was preparing to write this post, I tried to think of the most important lessons that our breastfeeding journey has taught my whole family. Then it dawned on me. These life lessons actually have less to do with milk and more to do with parenthood. So whether you breastfeed, bottle feed, are a foster parent, adoptive parent, traditional parent or crunchy, here are three ways that the power of parenthood reshaped my whole perspective on life.

Trust

I learned to trust that my babies know when they are hungry, sad, mad, or overwhelmed. My trust in their feelings reinforces their trust in themselves.

I learned to trust myself and my parenting choices. When I’m not listening to my inner voice, babies cry, fuss at the breast, or throw temper tantrums. When I am connected to my instincts, I make better choices, and the family thrives.

Advocate for myself

We all have a breaking point, but you can’t know your limits until you reach them. Parenthood will take you there on a high-speed train. I learned to ask for help when I was breastfeeding a newborn, and to say “wait” to my toddler. I learned that saying “I can’t help you right now” is not a sign of weakness or selfishness. It is a sign of me knowing my capabilities and me standing up for myself. And this is a skill that I want to model for my children.

Connection

When connection is missing, children will let you know in a million different ways.  When I stopped long enough to watch, I learned to notice subtle differences in the way my children would behave at the breast. I tried to discover the real reason for resisting sleep, or for screaming at me for handing over the wrong colored cup, or for pretending to be a baby for days on end. Vibes were better between us when I took the time to really listen. I stopped scrolling through Facebook while nursing, I played Fireman Sam without eyeing the laundry pile, and understood the reason for more tears after spending a lot of time away. My actions would frequently reflect my culture or what I was taught to be the “right” way, and I learned, little by little, to open my eyes and ears to my children and less to society around me.

I thought I would be raising children, but it turns out that I have as much (or more) to learn as them. This new me is better, more compassionate, more trusting, and more patient.

Let me admit, though, that I did not sign up for this recreation of myself. I signed up for a new baby, not a new me. It’s so hard. I wish that this recreation of me could be done without banging my head against the wall so many times. But that’s how change works. The bigger the change, the harder the head-bang is. Parenthood gave me no choice but to reshape myself into the mother that a person needs. My kids are three and four now so I guess this is just the beginning.

Can I do this?

Well, I’ve come this far. I’m going to go out on a limb and say yes. Thanks, parenthood, for showing me what I’m capable of. I’ll try not to let you down as you throw the next lessons my way.

Has parenthood thrown challenges at you that you didn’t expect? How have you grown because of them? Drop me a comment below, I’d love to hear your experience! 

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Anne Kathryn Rice

Anne Kathryn Rice is an American mother of two strong willed children living on the Italian Riviera. She writes about motherhood and listening to your inner voice, even when cultural expectations, baby books, and impromptu advice seem to challenge your instincts. You can read more about her personal experiences on her blog.

www.lovegrowdiscover.com

The post The Power of Parenthood – Breastfeeding World appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

photo by Eleonora Vaschetti

I can see that little Steven is growing up, my toddler is feeling more confident in this big world. As he nurses less and less, I realize that I have grown to love the deep connection that breastfeeding brings us. I know that his wings are growing and that he’s just about ready to fly and that’s something to celebrate, but I can’t help but think about what I am going to miss when my toddler weans

1. Falling back to sleep after a bad dream

Sometimes my toddler wakes up at night really upset. His body flails and my heart aches for him. He could care less about my soft, soothing voice. He doesn’t want me to pick him up. If he breastfeeds, though, he falls back into a peaceful slumber. In like a minute.

2. Free, organic milk packed with antibodies for breakfast

The morning routine can be really stressful. Getting two little kids fed and dressed and out the door by 8 am is a huge feat for me. I am happy about the days that my son breastfeeds early in the morning before we get out of bed. That’s one less person to tell me that he doesn’t want what I have made for breakfast and can I make him something else. But not that. And not that either. Can I eat Nutella out of the jar with a spoon? Yes, I get asked that a lot.

3. Reconnection after a long day apart

I work every weekday for a good 8 hours. Steven goes to preschool. We miss each other. Sometimes we nurse after school and all of that missing each other seems to melt away. We tell each other with our eyes that we are still good. If either of us had some tough moments during the day, we remember that we were thinking about each other. We’ve got each other’s backs. We just need a couple of minutes to remember that.

photo by Eleonora Vaschetti

Soothing the woes of toddlerhood

Sometimes it’s really hard to be a toddler. People take your toys. Your sister always has something cool in her hands that she will not give you. Your mom tells you that you cannot watch TV for an entire day. Don’t even get me started about car seats. Sometimes when I can tell that Steven has the world on his shoulders and he can’t problem solve any more, breastfeeding gives him that little push of confidence to carry on. I can feel his body relax and then rev up again. Nursing really does give him roots so that he can grow wings.

So.. what’s next?

The days are drawing nearer that I’m going to have to start thinking about healthy breakfasts for everyone every day. When my son feels overwhelmed we are going to have to talk things over. I’m going to have to really figure out when he’s open to listening and when he needs to be heard.

How will we establish a connection that will live up to the superpowers of the breast?

I’ve got this, mom.

It will be a long journey for both of us, but really this is the journey of life. We’ve all got to figure out how to really understand ourselves and the people around us.  It’s not easy for toddlers, and it’s not easy for adults, but each step towards understanding each other is a step towards a more peaceful world, so I guess it’s worth it.

So here’s to you, my son, and your journey away from me. I know you’ll be great, and that I won’t always be able to help you out. But if you need me, I’m here.

What do you think you will miss about breastfeeding?

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Anne Kathryn Rice

Anne Kathryn Rice is an American mother of two strong willed children living on the Italian Riviera. She writes about motherhood and listening to your inner voice, even when cultural expectations, baby books, and impromptu advice seem to challenge your instincts. You can read more about her personal experiences on her blog.

www.lovegrowdiscover.com

The post 4 things I’ll Miss When My Toddler Weans appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Nothing Better <3

Although bed–sharing is becoming more and more a topic of open conversation in parenting choices in the U.S. these days, before I became pregnant I thought it was kind of strange and not for me. I could not imagine having my baby in bed while still getting sleep and forget trying to have time with my husband. I just couldn’t wrap my head around the idea of ever choosing that for my family. I read in the most popular (at the time) parenting books when to have baby in his own crib and room; how to get a bedside bassinet at first then to move baby to his own room only after a few months. To be honest, that sounded fine. As a new mom-to-be, three months of having my baby in my room seemed long. Plus, I wanted my babies to all be independent and learn to soothe themselves and to sleep through the night.

Co–sleeping at it’s most precious moment. <3

Well, let me tell you, my pre-mama way of thinking disgusts me, now! I can’t believe I thought that was normal. I can’t believe society and our culture taught me to think this was normal in the beginning.
I’m beyond happy that after I gave birth I listened to my mommy instincts, did research for safe co-sleeping and I kept my baby right next to me. Co-sleeping is one of the best parenting choices I’ve ever made, especially for breastfeeding!
Not only has co-sleeping helped me get more sleep, it helps with my babies sleeping more, too, because breastfeeding is right there when it is needed. No extra yelling or crying for me to come and feed them, therefore no extra waking up and becoming upset. Co-sleeping helped increase and keep my supply up always having my babies right next to me all night; and for me, practicing safe co-sleeping always helped relieve my mommy (postpartum) anxiety because I knew my baby was okay.

One of the only co–sleeping pics my husband snapped of our first. Thank God he got a few with our baby boy. <3

Each baby is different so co-sleeping with each might look different. For my son, I started with him in a bedside bassinet, but he and I both hated it. We would both fully wake up at each feeding and we were so uncomfortable. About a month postpartum I finally breastfed him lying down, with him on the inside of our bed and we slept better that night than ever! We co–slept until 13-14 months, and we still snuggle in the mornings, now at 3.5 years old. With my daughter, she is a kicker and LOVES her own space, but does not like being alone. I always babywore her and nursed her to sleep but would put her in a bedside bassinet until about six months old. Then we co–slept in our bed until after her first birthday, and her crib was in our room for a few months after that. I always had monitors on both cribs and check on them a few times (at least) a night once in their own room.

“Each baby is different so co-sleeping with each might be different…”

My <3

TRIGGER: As I sat down to finish this post this week, I coincidently saw a post on Facebook of yet another young infant died from SIDS. It frustrates me and upsets me to tears that specialist, doctors and scientists still majority of the time in our country say they cannot know for sure exactly what causes SIDS and disapprove co-sleeping stating they are connected. I’m a journalist and I know better than to contradict the supposedly non-biased facts out there done by these so-called professionals, especially the specialist; however, as a mom, a well-educated, thoughtful, and passionate mom, who uses commonsense (every action has a reaction) I say BS. Because if you do research there are studies and enough data out there that does prove when co–sleeping is done correctly it is the safest form of sleeping for baby. The type of language used in the studies, giving different scenarios of how a baby 0 months–1 year died from SIDS easily confuses the interpretation of the data to put the findings in to a clear answer: Should my baby co–sleep or should he be in a crib?

So peaceful <3

Another factor that confuses the data’s findings is that co-sleeping WITH exclusively breastfeeding saves thousands of babies per year, and “cuts SIDS risk and may cut overall infant death risk in half” – not just co–sleeping on it’s own.
You will find many organizations with conclusive evidence stating while following safe guidelines for proper co–sleeping (and preferably exclusively breastfed), it is what is best and commonly practiced around the world. Organizations such as La Leche League, Breastfeeding USA, and birth professionals and authors such as Ina May Gaskin, McKenna, J. and McDade, T., all support and encourage safe co–sleeping, especially while exclusively breastfeeding.

My baby boy right next to me <3

According to Le Leche League, “The four biggest issues associated with SIDS are 1) smoking, 2) laying a baby facedown for sleep, 3) leaving a baby unattended, and 4) formula feeding.” For majority of babies, these are not always top factors for the chance of SIDS; however, for babies who majority die from SIDS, “it happens in a small group of vulnerable babies who have very specific but undiagnosed health issues.” Therefore, it is unknown if your baby is more vulnerable before, so there is a greater need for a vulnerable baby to be in arms reach of his/her mother to prevent dying from SIDS. Safe co-sleeping provides the biological and instinctual reaction to assist a vulnerable baby and can prevent SIDS. Maybe if our culture accepted and encouraged safe co–sleeping, like in other countries, new and experienced parents would know the benefits of co–sleeping and less babies would die from SIDS.

Breastfeeding and co–sleeping <3

Let us know your experience with breastfeeding and co–sleeping and please practice safe bed–sharing. Much love to you!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Page Rose

I am a 27-year-old WAHM to two intelligent and amazing toddlers (3 and 1.5 years), and two stepdaughters (12.5 and 8.5 years). I am a very active and passionate birth advocate working to change regulations, laws and cultural norms in the U.S. to provide parents to be educated and empowered to know all birth rights and options. I am a proud emergency, unplanned c-section, turned all natural, non-medicated VBAC experienced mama! I am a modern-hippie mama practicing attachment parenting, who loves babywearing and toddlerwearing, and of course breastfeeding! I love to laugh with my amazing husband/best friend and to travel to new places with our beautiful family.
For more of my lifestyle and mommy blogging updates, check out my Instagram page @PRbabywearingMama.

The post Co-Sleeping and Breastfeeding appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

My Birthday Selfie.

Wednesday, February 17^th, 2016

Tomorrow is my 28^th birthday and I don’t know why but this is a big one for me. It got me thinking a lot about time, life, and what’s led me to who I am today. Specifically, there’s a lot that’s happened in the last 11 months, leading up to this birthday. I’ve learned more about myself in the last year than I ever have; I’ve worked on and changed all my relationships I have in the last year; and, I’ve really reflected and tried to slow myself down to cherish and focus on my relationship with my husband and children.
Being a mom has always been a top priority for me, but I’ve always been anxious and so hard on myself if things didn’t go how I ‘thought’ they were supposed to go. And because of that there are things I might have missed if I didn’t slow myself down.

Close up and beautiful.

I also started my Instagram account in the last year and I started blogging. When I started documenting my babies, my journey of motherhood, and my breastfeeding journey with my daughter I received more positive feedback than I expected; especially, my posts about breastfeeding.

My first post, my first #brelfie, I made it because I realized I basically had no breastfeeding photos with my first, my son, who breastfed for an amazing 15 months. I was already a year in to breastfeeding my daughter and I only had a few of pictures but no brelfies. This is also when I realized this was something I am so proud of, a relationship I’m so honored to have with my daughter, and one I had with my son but have no photos to remember it by.
Breastfeeding is something to be proud of not ashamed of, so why shouldn’t I take more picture and brelfies of myself with my daughter? It’s beautiful and I know I’ll regret it later if I don’t capture this moment in time. So, 30 weeks ago I made a post about breastfeeding, with a brelfie, and it was my top post. I had mamas congratulating me for breastfeeding that long and a few shared their breastfeeding stories, as well. I knew then this was something I had to keep sharing because I think every mama should take more brelfies and not feel ashamed, embarrassed or even just shy about their breastfeeding journey with their baby. Before you know it, that baby of yours is going to stop nursing and not be a baby anymore. And when that time comes you’re going to want to remember those beautiful nursing moments. You’ll want to remember all those sleepless nights when all your baby wanted was you, and those lovely milk-loving days that your baby or toddler just calmed the moment you put her on your lap to nurse. You can’t turn back time and get those moments back, but taking pictures helps keep them.

“…my first #brelfie, I made it because I realized I basically had no breastfeeding photos with my first, my son…”

Nursing and loving our The Vintage Honey Shop breastfeeding necklace.

At 28 years old, I have had three pregnancies, one angle baby and two amazing, beautiful and independent babies born, and for the past three years I have been able to nurture and nourish my two little’s through so much. It’s hard to put in to perfect words why breastfeeding moms are so attached to this part of motherhood with growing and raising their babies because it’s never flaunted with intentions to judge or shame formula-feeding moms. I think the sooner we stop this war between each other by just being compassionate, loving and kind to one another, we can listen (key word*) to each other instead of jumping to conclusions. We post pictures or selfies to share our lives and world with others because we are proud and happy.

Just another morning routine nursing.

For me, sharing a brelfie is me being vulnerable, honest, sensitive, emotional, and proud because I love this part of my journey in to motherhood. I love and appreciate the bond breastfeeding has brought me with both my babies. It’s about my family and me, not what I negatively think about others, which I don’t.
Breastfeeding is natural, beautiful and unexplainable in just one post. And at 28 years old, I’m more confident, calm, patient, and wise to know it’s important to post and take brelfies because I’m so freaking proud of breastfeeding my babies! For me, breastfeeding is an important part of my motherhood and I’m not going to forget it.

One of the first photos my husband took of my daughter and me breastfeeding just a few days postpartum. He used a “fun” filter with his new camera.

Posting on Social Media isn’t for everyone, so I’m not suggesting you must do that in order to properly document or be proud of your breastfeeding journey. I do encourage you to take more pictures if it’s a time in your life and motherhood that you don’t want to forget. What are your favorite nursing or motherhood moments you’ve captured?

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Page Rose

I am a 27-year-old WAHM to two intelligent and amazing toddlers (3 and 1.5 years), and two stepdaughters (12.5 and 8.5 years). I am a very active and passionate birth advocate working to change regulations, laws and cultural norms in the U.S. to provide parents to be educated and empowered to know all birth rights and options. I am a proud emergency, unplanned c-section, turned all natural, non-medicated VBAC experienced mama! I am a modern-hippie mama practicing attachment parenting, who loves babywearing and toddlerwearing, and of course breastfeeding! I love to laugh with my amazing husband/best friend and to travel to new places with our beautiful family.
For more of my lifestyle and mommy blogging updates, check out my Instagram page @PRbabywearingMama.

The post Breastfeeding on my Birthday appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

If you are breastfeeding, you have probably heard of fenugreek and brewer’s yeast; one of which makes you smell like maple syrup and the other makes everything it’s in taste like beer (ick!).  But, you have also probably heard that breastfeeding mothers should try to eat oatmeal each and every day.  This I could definitely do.  There are so many ways you can eat oatmeal, besides just a bowl of it with fruit in the morning. For the first year of breastfeeding, and beyond, I ate oatmeal at least once day.  And now, two years in, I continue to eat it regularly still.  I know that not everyone loves oatmeal (that used to be me), so I thought I would share two of favorite oatmeal recipes.

I was told early on that I needed to be eating oatmeal that was not instant oatmeal, but that was the regular old fashioned rolled oats.  As you know, these can take awhile to cook on the stovetop.  This oatmeal recipe below became one of my favorites because it takes 2 minutes to throw together and it is ready when you wake up in the morning!  It is also very easy to make diary free, which is how I make it!

You have probably heard that Breastfeeding mothers should try to eat oatmeal every day…

1/4 cup rolled oats
1/3 milk of choice (I use coconut milk)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 large dollop yogurt of choice (I use coconut milk greek yogurt)

Place all ingredients in a mason jar. Seal lid and shake until well mixed. Place in the refrigerator for 8 hours, or overnight.  Take out, stir in some of your favorite mix-ins and enjoy!

Source: Sprouts

My favorite mix-ins are a little strawberry jelly or peanut butter with a dollop of pure maple syrup.  What’s great about this recipe (besides being super easy), is that when you’re little one is ready to start eating, they will love it too!  And the sky is really the limit with the mix-ins!  You can try almonds with raw honey, apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon, bananas and walnuts, and anything else you can think of!

One of the things I have struggled with most while breastfeeding is keeping up with my own nutrition.  I never seem to be able to eat enough.  This recipe is a quick and easy one (no cooking or baking required) that provides some yummy and much-needed protein to your diet…plus quite a few other nutritional powerhouses.  Plus, they really help satisfy my sweet tooth in a healthier way!

1 cup dry, old fashioned oats
2/3 cup toasted coconut flakes
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (any nut/seed butter would work)
1/2 cup ground flaxseed
2/3 cup chocolate chips (I used Enjoy Life brand mini chocolate chips which are diary free)
1/3 raw honey
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 teaspoon vanilla

Combine all ingredients and mix until well incorporated. (I threw all of them into a stand mixer.)  Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Remove and roll into balls.  Wet your hands to help with the stickiness.  Can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container or in the fridge. (I personally love them straight out of the fridge!)

Source: Chew Out Loud, adapted from givemesomeoven

**Just a side note, I am also gluten free, so to make these two recipes gluten free, just make sure you get gluten free rolled oats…it’s that easy!**

I hope you like these recipes and they make their way into your oatmeal regimen! :).  Have you ever tried crock-pot oats?  If not, that’s another one of our favorites to look up and try!  

What are some of your favorite oatmeal recipes? Have you found creative ways to get more oatmeal into your diet while breastfeeding?  Comment below!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Allyson Lux

I am a single mom to the most amazing little boy in the entire world. He is the light of my life! We also have the two sweetest doggies who complete our little family. I am a high school teacher and a photographer, and am very passionate about breastfeeding, babywearing, attachment parenting, and raising my son in the most natural way possible!

www.myluxphotography.wix.com/home

The post Oatmeal and breastfeeding appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Us doing our normal thing.

Don’t be the Scrooge of Breastfeeding this Christmas!

Do not be the Scrooge of Breastfeeding, Breastfeeding your baby is important. I say this as a matter of fact- medically recommended, not as a judgment. The American Academy of Pediatrics certainly states so and so does WHO (World Health Organization), recommending that babies be breastfed until 2 years of age.
In 2012, the U.S. ranked last (LAST!) on the Breastfeeding Policy Scorecard for the World’s Mother’s Report for 2012. For many reasons, American women face many challenges and many avoidable obstacles with breastfeeding. So, if you are anti-breastfeeding, please keep your opinions to yourself and don’t be the Scrooge of Breastfeeding this Christmas and holiday season.

Know Your Rights, Don’t allow anyone to be a Scrooge of Breastfeeding this Season!

Nearly all 50 states protect mothers’ rights to breastfeed out in public, wherever they want and whenever they want. When babies are hungry, babies need to be fed right away. Babies are too small and immature to understand how to manipulate and lack the years of practice to gain patience to know how to wait to be fed, which a baby should not have to wait – it’s a baby! So, if you see one of us nursing out in public and you disagree, please keep it to yourself. Don’t be the Scrooge of breastfeeding this Christmas and holiday season.

Beautiful Breastfeeding!

Many of us breastfeeding mothers go through challenges and must relax while nursing, so don’t make it harder for us to feed our babies. Look the other way or leave if you are uncomfortable with a mother taking care of her baby to survive the best way possible, with love and nutrients. Don’t be the Scrooge of Breastfeeding this Christmas or holiday season.
Let’s not be at war with each other on what parenting group is “better” (breastfeeding or bottle feeding) this holiday season. We should know by now that America is driven by money-hungry corporations and formula companies are very aggressive towards new mothers and all parents. This puts so much pressure on moms when feeling defeated and exhausted from breastfeeding in the beginning. Don’t be the Scrooge of breastfeeding this Christmas and holiday season. We need to stick together, educate one another, support one another to be the best parent each of us are, in our own ways. Just remember, breastfeeding can be hard, so just try to love and support all mamas and parents feeding their babies. Don’t be the Scrooge of Breastfeeding this Christmas and holiday season.

Christmas time in the Rose house, filled with love and respect for breastfeeding.

And last, don’t be too hard on yourself and never give up on what you think is the best for you, your baby and family. Please know breastfeeding support and help is out there and you’re never alone. So, don’t be the Scrooge of Breastfeeding this Christmas by shamming something so natural, nurturing and beautiful.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!

Do you have a difficult family member or distant friend who is unsupportive of your breastfeeding? Are you having to be around them this holiday season and feel stressed from it? Or are you surrounded by love and support?

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

Page Rose

I am a 27-year-old WAHM to two intelligent and amazing toddlers (3 and 1.5 years), and two stepdaughters (12.5 and 8.5 years). I am a very active and passionate birth advocate working to change regulations, laws and cultural norms in the U.S. to provide parents to be educated and empowered to know all birth rights and options. I am a proud emergency, unplanned c-section, turned all natural, non-medicated VBAC experienced mama! I am a modern-hippie mama practicing attachment parenting, who loves babywearing and toddlerwearing, and of course breastfeeding! I love to laugh with my amazing husband/best friend and to travel to new places with our beautiful family.
For more of my lifestyle and mommy blogging updates, check out my Instagram page @PRbabywearingMama.

The post Don’t be a Scrooge of Breastfeeding appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

The American Academy of Pediatrics had the following to stay about extended breastfeeding: “Breastfeeding should be continued for at least the first year of life and beyond for as long as mutually desired by mother and child… Increased duration of breastfeeding confers significant health and developmental benefits for the child and the mother… There is no upper limit to the duration of breastfeeding and no evidence of psychologic or developmental harm from breastfeeding into the third year of life or longer.” (AAP 2012, AAP 2005)

I never intended or planned this extended breastfeeding journey that my son and I are now on.  It just happened very naturally and continues to make us both very happy.  But, once I knew we wouldn’t be stopping at his first birthday, I realized there are so many reasons to continue the breastfeeding journey well into toddlerhood.

Here are three reasons to breastfeed past the first year

First: connection, connection, connection.  There is nothing in this world like looking deep into your child’s eyes while he is nursing, and being able to lean down, take in his smell and kiss his sweet forehead.  Or those early mornings when you are lying in bed, and he holds your hand in his as he nurses.  You are mom, you are safe, you are comfort, you are home.  The bond that breastfeeding your toddler provides is just indescribable.  I feel as if this closeness helps me understand him better, empathize with him more, and really helps to lessen the number and severity of tantrums.  He feels connected, heard, understood, safe, and loved. Nothing can soothe and comfort him like breastfeeding can.

Second, health, both his and mine.  One of the most amazing things that I learned about breastfeeding is that your sick child’s saliva actually communicates with the mother’s body through the nipple to stimulate the growth of the antibodies to treat whatever illness they have.  As our children get older, they are around more and more other children, and people in general, which can equal more and more germs.  Whether they go to daycare or not, they are bound to get sick, unfortunately.  As moms, we would love to take every illness on ourselves so they wouldn’t have to experience it, and although this isn’t possible, we can do the next best thing. How amazing that through breastfeeding, they are able to get exactly what their body needs to heal naturally and organically, without us having to do a single thing but nurse them!  The immunological benefits of breastfeeding during two to three years of age actually increase and goes beyond that of the baby’s first year!  And if they health benefits for him weren’t enough, breastfeeding, for me, lowers the risks of multiple types of cancers, RA, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Third, nursing past one year has been shown to contribute to the intellectual, mental and social development of the breastfed child as well. The American Academy of Family Physicians states, “As recommended by the WHO, breastfeeding should ideally continue beyond infancy, but this is not the cultural norm in the United States and requires ongoing support and encouragement. It has been estimated that a natural weaning age for humans is between two and seven years. Family physicians should be knowledgeable regarding the ongoing benefits to the child of extended breastfeeding, including continued immune protection, better social adjustment, and having a sustainable food source in times of emergency. The longer women breastfeed, the greater the decrease in their risk of breast cancer.” In addition, “If the child is younger than two years of age, the child is at increased risk of illness if weaned.” (AAFP 2008)

Now, I have to admit, that there are really only two reasons why we are on the extended breastfeeding path that we are. One, it makes us both happy.  And two, I know it is good for him now and in the long run.  I have no set date when our journey will end.  I am more than thankful for the time we’ve had this far and all of the amazing benefits that come along with this journey.  But, I know we will have reached the end of the road, when it no longer makes us happy, that will be our deciding factor.  In the end, it will come down to him.  It will be his choice when we stop.  I can’t imagine what life will be like when I am no longer nursing him, though I do know it will be one of the hardest and saddest transitions of my life.  For now, and for as long as I can, I will soak in every moment my son continues to nurse because it will forever be something that fills my heart with love and brings me closer to him than I ever thought possible…no matter the health or other benefits involved.

Are you on an extended breastfeeding journey?  What is the driving force behind your decision to continue well past the standard age in our society?  Do you feel supported in your decision?  Comment below, I would love to hear about your journeys and motivations!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Allyson Lux

I am a single mom to the most amazing little boy in the entire world. He is the light of my life! We also have the two sweetest doggies who complete our little family. I am a high school teacher and a photographer, and am very passionate about breastfeeding, babywearing, attachment parenting, and raising my son in the most natural way possible!

www.myluxphotography.wix.com/home

The post Three reasons to Breastfeed past the first year mark appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

 While I’m sure the support of a spouse is an amazing plus when breastfeeding, as a single mother, I hardly agreed that it is crucial.

My son and I have been breastfeeding over twenty-one months strong, just him and I, and we have had, and continue to have, an amazing and very successful breastfeeding journey.  Although, I had no spousal or significant other support during any time during my pregnancy nor our breastfeeding journey, I did not go at it alone by any means. So the sharing of my photograph really caused me to pause and think about who deserved my sincere and utmost gratitude for being a supportive part of our breastfeeding journey, just as I hope reading this post will cause you to do the same.

To those doctors, nurses, and lactation counselors at Presby Plano

Thank you for starting us off on the breastfeeding path and giving us to the tools we needed for success from the beginning.  This hospital was phenomenal, and we came to know the staff quite well in the last six weeks of my pregnancy. You see my son felt determined to arrive weeks before his estimated arrival date.   But, from day one, they were advocates of breastfeeding.

They offered mothers, and spouses, a free breastfeeding class.  I remember attending and just soaking in the wealth of information, just waiting for our ‘Golden Hour’ and the first time my son nursed.  But, it’s not that easy.  They aren’t just born and BAM!! on the breast, easy as pie.

Thank goodness I had the support of the most amazing lactation consultants from the minute my son was born.  They were there, by my side, any time I needed them, and in one word, were just amazing!  Even after being discharged, for the last twenty-one months, they don’t miss a beat when I call with a question or stop by.  They truly care about our breastfeeding journey and have continued as an incredible support system for my son and I.

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To Sharni, Lydia, and Cheyenne, you gave us community, and for that I will forever be grateful.

As a teacher, I had to return to work for about eight weeks after my son was born.  Once out for summer though, I decided to visit our local Nappy Shoppe for their Breastfeeding Café.  The idea of meeting other new-er moms who were ‘crunchy’ like us sounded wonderful, plus it was free, with free access to a lactation counselor there for any questions I may have.

After the first visit, we were hooked!  We found ourselves spending almost entire Wednesdays at the store with the other breastfeeding mammas and their Littles.  We had found our niche, our community, our home-away-from home.  Cheyenne and Lydia, the lactation counselors, were so very knowledgeable and were so sweet.  I still go to them for advice and truly value what they say.  We also met some of our closest friends through this group.  There is nothing like other breastfeeding mammas, who will stand beside you and proudly nurse their Littles too, through think and thin!

To Angela, Stephanie, and Christine, you are my village.

I don’t know where I’d be without you three mothers (and friends).  I love you and your Littles!  You are so much more than just friends, you are the sisters I never had.  It means the world to me that I get to share motherhood, breastfeeding and all, with you three.  Thank you for being there. Day in and day out, and I so look forward to watching us grow as mothers and watching our Littles grow up together!

And finally, there are my parents and their spouses.

Mom and Rich, Dad and Terry, there are no words to tell you what you mean to us and to tell you how much we love and cherish you.  I know that things are very different now when it comes to breastfeeding than they were when I was little.  I’ve known for as long as I can remember that my mother breastfed me until I was eighteen months old, but it wasn’t until recently she told me that she never, ever breastfed me in public.  It was something she only did in the privacy of our home.

So, I understood that my openness in my breastfeeding journey might be hard for them to swallow.  But, while at times it may have been hard for them when I openly nurse my son in public, they continue to support me in my choice and our journey.  Whether I am walking through Hobby Lobby, holding and nursing my son, or breastfeeding him after a nice dinner out, they have always done whatever they can to help with our breastfeeding journey and support us. And that means the world to me.

So, I may not have had a spouse’s help. But I did (and still do) have an incredible amount of support behind me.

Thank you for cheering me on and making our extended breastfeeding journey possible.  It is to you all, that from the bottom of my heart, I say Thank You.  There are no words to describe how I will cherish this journey for the rest of my life.

I will always remember the part you played in it.

Who has helped you in your breastfeeding journey?  Would you be where you are in your journey today without them?  Have you been able to breastfeed longer and more successfully because of their support?  Maybe now is a great time to let them know just how much they have helped you. Show them how truly grateful you are!

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld

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Allyson Lux

I am a single mom to the most amazing little boy in the entire world. He is the light of my life! We also have the two sweetest doggies who complete our little family. I am a high school teacher and a photographer, and am very passionate about breastfeeding, babywearing, attachment parenting, and raising my son in the most natural way possible!

www.myluxphotography.wix.com/home

The post To My True Support System: From a Single Mom, with Love appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Extended Breastfeeding, is it for everyone?

Earlier this summer, after trying every homeopathic and natural remedy I knew of, I finally unenthusiastically called to make an appointment to see my doctor.  The receptionist informed it was his half day and I would have to see another provider in his practice.  Another strike for that week and that sick spell, but I agreed.

I showed up with my son in tow expecting to see a professional and ethical doctor of western medicine.  What I did not expect was a lecture about my lifestyle and parenting choices.  The appointment started out as any other, vitals, symptoms, etc.  The doctor came in and did a quick exam.  He began going over my history and I informed him that I was breastfeeding and any treatment must be safe and conducive for that.  He stopped typing, looked up, eyebrows raised, and asked “And how old is he?”  I told him that my son was sixteen months. And let the judgmental stare and comments ensue.  He proceeded to tell me that I needed to stop soon and definitely by twenty-four months.  I, still with my nice pants on, let him know that we would be continuing as long as possible.  This was not the answer he wanted to hear and he pushed forward and went as far as to tell me that I really needed to stop at two years because anything after that was “just creepy,” and they only do it for comfort after that age, which just isn’t okay.  This momma’s nice pants had about all but disappeared at this point.  Breathe, I told myself and just do what you came here to do.  I just couldn’t let it go though, it ate away at me as I checked out, as I drove home, and hasn’t stopped since.

And again a few weeks ago, after a lovely dinner, our waitress felt the need to tell me my son was too old to be nursing as she smiled and cleared our table.  I found myself gritting through my smiling teeth, as I nicely told her that he wasn’t and he could nurse as long as he so chose to.

Flashback to a little over a year ago, my son was just over four months old and we were doing great.  He was healthy and happy, and breastfeeding was such a good part of lives. We had been so lucky in that department even with him being born a month early.  It wasn’t until school let out for the summer and I started attending a local Breastfeeding Cafe that my life really changed.

Before I became a regular at this Nappy Shoppe mom’s group, I always attempted to cover up in public when I breastfed my son, though we both hated it.  But, here, I found empowerment as a breastfeeding mother.  I no longer covered up in public or at all, ever.  I no longer apologized to those who saw.  I owned what it meant to be able to nourish my son anytime anywhere and was proud of the beauty and intimacy that can only come from a mother breastfeeding her child.

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My views also shifted.  I started to notice other breastfeeding mothers wherever we went.  I now felt a sacred and special bond with them that only we could share.  One year was no longer my cutoff for breastfeeding.  We would go as long as it was beneficial to both of us and made us both happy.  My goal was now at least two years but had no plans of stopping even then.  It would be up to my son when he was ready to stop. This journey is one that must end and only happens once in a child’s life.  It is a time that should be treasured and cherished, not shamed and rushed.  The day my son stops nursing will be one of the saddest days of my life.

Fast forward back to now, and this breastfeeding momma can’t help but feel sorry for people like the doctor I saw and the waitress that night.  Instead of choosing to see the beauty and the love, they, like so many in our society, chose to sexualize the act and judge and shame.  But this momma refuses to be shamed.  I  will continue to stand tall, son nursing, no matter his age, for all the world to see because I love him more than life itself and what better way to show him, and to teach him how to be true to himself and what he believes in.

We love to hear from you! What are your thoughts or experience on extended breastfeeding?

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts to be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

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Allyson Lux

I am a single mom to the most amazing little boy in the entire world. He is the light of my life! We also have the two sweetest doggies who complete our little family. I am a high school teacher and a photographer, and am very passionate about breastfeeding, babywearing, attachment parenting, and raising my son in the most natural way possible!

www.myluxphotography.wix.com/home

The post Our Extended Breastfeeding Journey appeared first on Breastfeeding World.