BREASTFEEDING | THE CURE FOR NURSING IN PUBLIC

Each day I count my blessings to be given the opportunity to raise my sweet daughter. To smell her baby soft skin, see her beautiful smile, cuddle her cute little booty, and the cherry on top - to breastfeed. 

During my pregnancy many people asked if I planned on breastfeeding and naturally my answer was always, "Of course, if I can!" I was never fully determined to breastfeed because I knew realistically that it just might not work for me and I'm not one to get my hopes up. I am, however; VERY optimistic. I have the ability to make the best out of every situation, to take things slow, aim for patience, and to see that the grass is greener somewhere. 

Without giving much thought to it, breastfeeding came unbelievably natural to me AND my daughter and it's something that I look forward to everyday. It was undoubtedly one of the hardest and most time consuming learning experiences though and I'm still learning more each day. I say 'hard' because you don't know pain until you've gotten past the birthing experience only to bear through intense nipple cracking and engorgement for weeks that seem to never end. Hard because you're worried your baby isn't getting enough to eat, or too much to eat, or paranoia that your supply is about to dwindle down on empty. Finding nothing to wear to accommodate your needy feeder at a moments notice, leaky boobs, and I'll say it... timing it out perfectly so you can enjoy just one glass of wine. 

With all of the hurdles that breastfeeding comes with, feeling uncomfortable to feed your child is thee absolute last thing any mother should feel! I fully support to break the stigma of breastfeeding in public. When your child is hungry, they need to eat and mothers shouldn't have to fumble, hide or distance themselves for doing the most selfless and natural thing - feeding their baby! 

Nursing Poncho in Oatmeal  

I was on the hunt for a nursing cover so I could comfortably and proudly nurse my child in public and in the presence of others and upon researching many different shops I found the perfect one. Cover Me Ponchos, a shop I found on Etsy (NOW HAVE RECENTLY LAUNCHED THEIR STUNNING WEBSITE) immediately stood out to me and crossed all of the boxes I needed covered. Affordability (seriously, as low as $18) variety, versatility, simplistic yet fun designs, and lightweight material. I needed something cute and lightweight that I could throw in the diaper bag and whip over my head quickly and these ponchos have fully succeeded every expectation. 

Nursing Scarf in Grey and White Stripe

I love the layered option it gives to an outfit.

Nursing Scarf worn looped as an infinity scarf.

I can’t praise Mariah as a business owner and her shop ENOUGH. I am so happy to have found these ponchos she has created. She is a mother herself and fully understands the hassle nursing in public comes with. They have been such a life saver especially during the holiday’s being around countless family members. I have never felt more comfortable to nurse my little Z when she pleases. The fabric is breathable so I don’t feel like I’m sweating my child out. Not only can they stylishly be wrapped around your neck as a scarf (which I do often) they roll up seamlessly and take up little space in the diaper bag. I even use it to cover the car seat at times. The design of these ponchos is so simple and functional. You literally throw it over your head and feel secure that its not going to go anywhere. No knots to tie, buckles to loosen, or straps to fall off. 

Nursing Scarf | large enough to cover entire front and loops into infinity scarf

I am kicking myself for not getting the word out sooner because these make the perfect gifts for new moms. Had I received one of these as a Christmas present, baby shower gift, or another one for Mother’s Day… I would give that person a big ole smooch! Seriously, if you are a momma, or know a momma, check out Cover Me Ponchos! They are currently offering free shipping and an additional 10% off your entire order with the code WINTER 

I can see BIG things coming to this successful business within the new year and they deserve every bit of it! 

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are that of my own. I hope to help get the word out for this awesome company! 

NATIONAL BREAST FEEDING WEEK

Last night I participated in a breastfeeding class and what better timing than to have taken it during national breastfeeding week! There’s been so much buzz lately about da bewb and I’m happy to be apart of it! 

I am a huge supporter of breastfeeding, especially to those moms who try but I also respect that breastfeeding just isn’t for some women and that’s totally okay. I’ve heard so many horror stories with how difficult it can be and although that makes me nervous it also makes me determined. 

My best friend came with me to the class last night, and although she could have told me everything the instructor did plus 10x better because she’s a freaking pro at all things mommy, I’m still so happy that I went! Everything feels much more clear and it was all organized very well from explaining skin-to-skin, hand-expression, nursing on demand, latching, milk storage, and of course the benefits! I feel like I just might possibly get the hang of this…

Not going to lie, I’m like super excited to be woken up in the middle of the night to feed my little dear. No sarcasm expressed folks. I can’t wait for that special bond! I truly can’t wait to cuddle and comfort her and to be there for her every single need, no matter how needy. I am fully aware of what’s ahead whether it be constant cries, collicy fits, or sleepless nights - I still can’t wait. Get back to me after about 3 weeks though… just kidding.