With my little one now 12 months old, I find him devouring food like a ravenous teenager. As he begins to nurse less frequently, it signals the end of our breastfeeding journey. It’s a bittersweet moment. While I cherish the bond that breastfeeding provides, I also look forward to reclaiming aspects of my life that I’ve had to navigate around the nursing schedule. In celebration of his weaning, here are a few indulgences I’m excited to embrace:
- Sleep In Beyond 6 a.m.
No matter how much my baby lets me rest, my body has its own agenda. As soon as the clock strikes 6 a.m., my breasts demand attention. The struggle of trying to catch a few more Z’s while managing the discomfort is over. Soon, I’ll have the luxury of sleeping in without interruption. - Reignite Intimacy with My Partner.
Remember all the fun I had during the first six months post-birth? (A side note: many were skeptical about my assertion that exclusive breastfeeding could serve as a reliable form of birth control. But research on lactational amenorrhea supports my claim.) Now, as my energy has been depleted from constant caregiving, my desire has taken a hit. However, after weaning, I anticipate a revival of our romantic life. It’s like a fresh start for our bedroom escapades. - Store My Pump Away for Good.
My relationship with my breast pump has been complicated, leaning mostly towards resentment. I look forward to stashing it away in the darkest corner of the attic, only to be forgotten—unless I decide to have another child, in which case I’ll reluctantly retrieve it, or perhaps I’ll give it away with glee. - Savor Coffee and Cocktails Anytime.
I can’t wait to enjoy my beloved caffeine and margaritas without worrying about nursing schedules. The freedom to indulge at any hour will be a delightful change! - Refresh My Lingerie Drawer.
Post-breastfeeding, I’m excited to shop for new bras that flatter my figure. It’s been ages since I treated myself to some stylish lingerie, and it’s time to embrace this new chapter with confidence. - Run Errands Without Disruption.
Gone are the days of nursing in parking lots, desperately trying to squeeze errands in between feedings. I look forward to running multiple errands in one go, without awkward interruptions or curious security personnel. - Take Medication Without Worry.
While breastfeeding, I avoided medication unless absolutely necessary. I miss the simplicity of taking an aspirin for a headache or any minor discomfort. Soon, I’ll relish the freedom to address my health needs without hesitation. - Nostalgically Reflect on Breastfeeding.
Despite the exhaustion and challenges, I will undoubtedly miss the special bonding moments shared during breastfeeding. It’s a treasured time with my child that I will carry in my heart.
As I prepare for this transition, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nostalgia. For those interested in similar experiences and insights, I recommend checking out our post on the Home Insemination Kit, which offers valuable information for hopeful parents. Also, for a deeper understanding of the journey to parenthood, Hopeful Parenting Stories serves as an excellent resource. And if you’re considering your options for conception, What to Expect When You Have Your First IUI is a must-read.
Summary:
Weaning marks a pivotal transition for both mother and child, filled with mixed emotions and newfound freedoms. From sleeping in to rekindling intimacy, the joys of this phase are numerous, even as the bond of breastfeeding is fondly remembered.