It's funny how things change when you have a new baby in the house. I knew things would be different, but it's hard to anticipate how. I have started back to work and it is quite a challenge to get myself presentable to be at work by 9, which probably doesn't even seem early to most of you. But between feeding and pumping, I don't know where the time goes. On my way to work yesterday, I congratulated myself for feeding Anna b, straightening the front part of my hair, and getting foundation on before I had to run out the door. So what if I forgot blush and lipstick and didn't have time for the bird's nest that was the back of my hair... people only see the front and at least my breakouts were covered. Success.
I never thought my life would revolve around a breastpump, but that is the case. Breastfeeding is really hard and I tip my hat to anyone who can continue it after going back to work. I decided that if I were going to attempt it, I would need a fancy pump. I should explain that our norm had been her using me as a human pacifier for hours on end and still being hungry 30 mins after she finished nursing. Certain parts get a little sore if you know what I mean. I had to buy extra, special parts for my special pump and it ended up costing more than Wes' car payment this month! I thought it would change our lives by helping me make all kinds of milk to feed her in a short amount of time. No more 3 hour feedings in the middle of the night!
BUT, that didn't happen and it turns out that a pump doesn't even get as much milk out of you as a baby can and your supply can dwindle once you switch to pumping. Ergh... What to do?? I researched online and found an herb called Fenugreek, which is supposed to increase a mom's milk supply. The only problem: it makes you smell like maple syrup. Seriously. It is what they use to flavor maple syrup. So, the next time you smell, I mean see, me, pretend not to notice because I'm really self conscious about it. Despite smelling like IHOP, I do think it's working for us. Another success.
That's about it. Unless you didn't hear enough about breastfeeding and pumping! Annabel weighs 8 lbs now! She's doing great. I'll be posting more pics soon.
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Brandi- You are too funny. I love reading your blog! I commend you for being such an awesome mommy already! I cannot imagine juggling a full-time job and a husband and an infant AND breastfeeding (might as well be another full-time job early on!)!!! I promise breastfeeding does get easier. I nursed Gracelyn for 11 months, but I do recall the soreness and difficulty at the beginning. Eventually it gets down to where you can do an adequate feeding in like 15 minutes! Can you imagine!!? It is just so frustrating in the beginning that they fall asleep while nursing like 50 times, so the feeding never seems like it accomplished much. Rar. I'm sure you will notice huge changes in the ease of it within the next month. Don't give up!! :o) I hope I get to meet Annabel someday- She is too precious!! Take care!
ReplyDelete-Erin