Dear little one,
As I reflect on our breastfeeding journey, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of emotions.
There are those late-night feedings that test my patience. I dread the moments when you wake me up at midnight, just as I finally drift into a much-needed slumber. The 2 a.m. wake-up calls feel especially challenging, particularly when I see your dad peacefully asleep while I’m up nursing. By 4 a.m., I’m grappling with your sleepy latch, which often leads to bites that make me wince. At 6 a.m., I glance at the clock, knowing I’ll soon have to rise for the day, despite having barely rested. And by 8:30 a.m., I’m rushing to drop off your sister at school, juggling a messy lunchbox and unkempt hair—all thanks to the extra minutes of sleep I tried to snatch from you.
I also face the judgment of others. It frustrates me to read disparaging comments online, as if breastfeeding is something to be ashamed of. When I nurse you in public, I often notice other parents hastily ushering their children away, as if witnessing you feeding is somehow scandalous.
Yet, amidst these challenges, there are undeniable joys. I cherish the convenience and cost-effectiveness of breastfeeding, knowing it’s a healthy choice for you. Above all, it brings you happiness, which makes it worthwhile. I also appreciate the legal protections that allow me to nurse you in public, reminding me that my rights as a mother are upheld, even if I’m weary and overwhelmed by the demands of parenting.
With all my love,
The mom attached to your favorite source of comfort