So I had written this whole post about my recent eating issues with Jackson; how he seemed to be disinterested in nursing, and that I didn't seem to be supplying what he needed. I had been filled with doubt and guilt and worry that my baby wasn't eating enough and that I should or shouldn't be supplementing with formula. I thought all of this was relatively normal, going through frustrating periods where I felt clueless and helpless, all first time moms experience that right? I thought I was getting the help I needed from Jack's pediatrician and the nurses and lactation consultants on base. I thought I had the confidence in myself to know what was best for us and feel good about the decisions I was making. And then I went for a walk with some friends.
So as with most mom conversations, it was all about the babies, so I started talking about what was going on with Jackson. And these wonderful women started asking questions, and sharing stories, quieting my fears just by telling me I was doing the right thing and my kid was fine. So when one of these women, who is now a new friend (weather she knows it or not), started talking about forming a breastfeeding group and a "mama tribe" it suddenly hit me that that was exactly what I needed. I was going through this phase of motherhood, and doing everything I could think of to get through it, but I wasn't getting the support I needed, because I didn't know I needed it or how to get it.
My breastfeeding woes had started to improve a few days before that walk, but my confidence (which is half the battle) came back with a vengeance that day. Find your mama tribe, even if you think you don't need it, a fellow mom might need you.
M. Thank you so much for being willing to share and listen.
C. You are a badass breastfeeder, and I hope it rubs off on me.
