Breastfeeding Overachievers

After dealing with cracked nipples, plugged ducts, a terrible bout of mastitis, and the most leakage possible, I am proud to say that I am an extended breast feeder.

I am still nursing my nearly 18 month old daughter. I had no intentions of nursing this long as my goal was 1 year. I excitedly awaited her 1st birthday looking forward to getting my boobs back. As soon as she could start on cow’s milk was when we would begin weaning. I couldn’t wait! Keep in mind that my daughter has taken a bottle maybe 3 times. I was her personal milk bar. I was ready for a break! At that point she was nursing 4 times a day - first thing in the morning, lunch, dinner and bedtime. Cutting lunch and dinner did not take long at all. Maybe 2 weeks. Those were easy, the most convenient to skip.

The last 2 feedings have been another story. Nearly six months have passed and we’re just now about done with the bedtime feeding. I have very slowly decreased the amount of nursing at bedtime. Slowly because…I guess I don’t want it to be over. It’s weird to admit that. This is the first time I have admitted it to myself.

I’ll miss the fact that I am the one who puts her to bed. That I’m the last one she sees before going to sleep for the night. That I’m the one who gets the last hug and kiss for the night. I guess it’s about time to let go and allow my husband to experience it.

The morning session is still going strong. When she wakes up in the morning I change her diaper and bring her to bed with me to nurse as long as she likes. I love the morning session because it allows me to lie in bed just that much longer. Note: I am NOT a morning person! I honestly don’t know how long we’ll continue. It is really up to her. I’ll let her lead the way. Once she’s done I guess we’re done. Hopefully she’ll continue for a while.

So far we have surpassed our goal of breastfeeding for 1 year by 50%! I guess we are breastfeeding overachievers!