We took a trip to Ireland last year, but it was just us. We knew immediately the kids would love it, so this time we brought the kids to Ireland! Day 1 We left the house Monday, August 14th about noon and arrived at Newark International Airport at about 2:30, breezed through security, and sat […]
Breastfeeding and Cups and Tears
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may make money when you purchase through them.
On our way home from vacation, Tom and I were talking about our upcoming trip back to Myrtle Beach. This one is kid-free though. He said we need to start working with Owen on cups because at 11 months, I’m not giving him a bottle. I don’t think there’s a reason to start him on a bottle at this point. He’s had so few of them that we probably shouldn’t try to introduce one now.
Let’s just say the cup conversation led to tears. Luckily, I wasn’t driving at this point, but still… here we are on our way home from a wonderful vacation and I’m crying about giving my baby a cup. But… that’s not really what I was crying about. I’m going to be away from my baby for almost a full 5 days. For a breastfeeding mom and baby, that’s going to be really rough. I need to start building up a bit of a supply for the freezer to use while we’re gone, but at the time, that was the least of my concern.
What if Owen won’t nurse when I get home?
That was all I could think about. He’s going to be so sad and feel deserted. I know he’ll be in good hands while we’re gone, but there’s nothing more comforting to a baby than Mommy. I love that I can instantly soothe him by just putting him to breast. How awesome is that? Really… it’s that easy most of the time.
I’m not ready to quit nursing him and I’m sure he’s not either. As a big supporter of self-weaning, it makes me feel incredibly selfish to just disappear from him for so long. I don’t want to rush his breastfeeding journey. It’s certainly had its rough spots, but I will absolutely miss cuddling that little boy and making his entire world better by one simple act.
Yes, I know we will have a great time on a little vacation just for mom and dad, but this is not how I want our breastfeeding experience to end. I just hope and pray that he’ll still want to nurse when we get back.
If you’ve breastfed your children, I’m sure you understand what I’m saying. It’s hard to express what that feeling is, especially to someone who hasn’t breastfed.
Christina Shirley says
Mine is 11 months old and still isn’t taking cups and she isn’t breastfed. Keep me posted on how your little one adapts to cups!
Christina Shirley says
I can totally understand your feelings. We have a such a connection with our children at that age. Even for moms like me that wasn’t able to breastfeed (due health issue after birth) I could barely leave me daughter for a few hours without feeling like part of me was missing.
Christina Shirley says
I’m a guy, so obviously no breastfeeding here. I did have a friend who tried to explain the bond that breastfeeding creates. I got the gist of it, but she said she’d never be able to adequately convey the feeling of closeness both her and the baby got from breastfeeding.
Christina Shirley says
Honestly, I do not miss those days. lol. I hope it all works out soon.
Christina Shirley says
I miss the days of breastfeeding in a way, but in other ways I totally do not! However, I do remember how difficult it was to leave my children while breastfeeding.
Christina Shirley says
I did not breast feed my kids but I understand the not wanting to leave him for other reasons. I think it was years before I left my kiddos overnight 🙁
Christina Shirley says
breastfeeding is amazing. I am working towards my LC. build up your supply like you mentioned and don’t forget to pump while you are away.
Christina Shirley says
I totally get what you are saying! Its a bond that can’t be replaced. Pump the same times you would nurse and things should be fine. He can’t forget mama in five days! 😉
Christina Shirley says
I completely get it. That would like an overwhelming situations. I would have worried about leaving my little one for that long too when she was nursing.