A long time ago I set Ellie's turning 9 months old as the point where I would start weaning her. I have loved nursing my kids but it was real challenge to stick it out and make it to that 9 month mark. I pick 9 months because that would get her through most of the winter on breast milk. (I feel like Levi got sick a lot when I weaned him at 6 months. That was in Dec., so he may have gotten sick anyway, but...) Anyway, as the date approached I started to have second thoughts. First off, that's my bonding time with my baby, a time when only mommy will do. Secondly, Steve thinks I'm a hero for breastfeeding our kids, and who doesn't like that? Finally, I was concerned that I was making my decision based on what I wanted (I'm ready to be done. I'm ready to have the occasional drink and have caffeine and eat spicy foods and not worry about the affect that has on someone else.) and not necessarily what was best for Eliana. Friday night I was a little panicked about the decision, so I prayed. I asked God what I should do and for a sign to help lead me.
The next morning Ellie got her first tooth. Now, to you that may just be a tooth, but to me that sharp, jagged little tooth is a clear cut sign from above. Sometimes God works in not so mysterious ways.
Needless to say we've started the weaning process and she is doing great so far. I'm a little sad when I see daddy feeding her, her bedtime bottle, but I know it had to happen sooner or later and it's nice for the two of them to get some bonding time in too.
Thanks for reading.
5 comments:
I also think you are a hero and Eliana has had a great winter thanks to her wonderful mom! Way to go:)
I'm glad you got your sign and think you are the primo milk maker! :)
I'm so glad Ellie and you were able to have that time together and you have given her a fantastically healthy start!
Hey, I think you did great. Take it from me, those teeth can hurt. Looking back, weaning earlier may have been much easier. Believe it or not, my 19 (almost) 20 month old is still nursing, he is down to 2x a day (sometimes only 1), and we're having a very difficult time with the weaning off completely, but we'll get there really soon (I hope).
I'm a bad friend--had to giggle at the tooth and nursing comment. Of course, Briana and Destry were both late teethers so I didn't have teeth and nursing! :)
I'm glad you've been able to enjoy this time of bonding with her and that she's been healthy. I understand the bittersweet feelings. . .
I think it is ironic that I read this post at work...while pumping. We just passed the 6-month mark and I am in the same turmoil. As selfish as it sounds, I want my life back. However, that is the primary reason for stopping and really, is that enough? Ugh. Bill is 100% supportive of whatever decision, because well, I am doing the work. We'll see what wins...me or my guilt (smart peeps will bet on the guilt).
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