Bottle vs. Boob and other thoughts

I wrote this blog entry back in February. It has now been over 3 months since I decided to stop breastfeeding & pumping and switch Colin completely over to formula. I can't believe it's already been that long. Time really does fly- especially when you have a baby. They grow and change and develop so quickly that if you blink, you just might miss something.

If you read my February blog entry about my decision to make the switch, you know that I didn't take it lightly. I still don't. To be honest, I still think about it almost daily. When Colin cries because he's hungry, and I have to make a bottle instead of just whippin' out the boob, it makes me wonder if I made the right choice. When I cuddle him close, I sometimes still miss the connection we had when he nursed. I've done a little reading on relactating, and even considered giving it a shot. But, from what I've read, it's only worth it if you can make a pretty huge time commitment to nurse or pump constantly, around the clock, as if you're nursing a newborn so that your breasts can get the memo that they need to produce milk again. Since I work a full time job, this just isn't something that's feasible for us.

Aunt Callie feeding Colin a bottle

Now, don't get me wrong; there are lots of good things about being a formula feeding mommy. I mean, how great is it to be able to throw a can of formula in the diaper bag and go somewhere, or let someone else (ahem, Daddy) feed him so you can get a little extra sleep after a particularly rough night. It's also nice to be able to leave little man with someone for a couple hours without having to worry about engorged breasts. The convenience of formula is definitely a bonus. So, there is that.

And, while our time breastfeeding was relatively short, I still feel good about the fact that Colin got the great benefits of breast milk while he was getting it. Those natural antibiotics must have done him good, because he's four months old now and still hasn't been sick once (knock on wood). He is a smart, healthy, happy boy, and I am proud of the parents Justin and I have become since our little sweetie came into our lives. We love him so much, and we care for him to the best of our ability. Apparently it shows, because everyone who meets Colin comments on what a sweet baby he is. It makes me feel so good to know that we're doing well as his parents.

As far as the breastfeeding thing goes, I am mostly at peace with my decision. Yes, it has taken a long time, and yes, sometimes I still question myself. I do plan to try again with our next baby, and now I have an arsenal of knowledge that I'll be bringing with me (along with a great lactation consultant who will be on board from the very beginning this time). I'm kind of excited to do it again. But, if it doesn't work out then either, I won't beat myself up about it, because whatever decisions we make will be what we feel is best for ourselves and our children.

And on that note, let me say this to all the mommies and daddies who might be reading this: whether your baby entered the world through a birth canal or through an incision; whether he drinks breast milk or formula; whether she wears cloth diapers or disposables; wherever he sleeps; whether she rides around town in a stroller or a wrap or sling... you're doing a great job. We all love our babies, and we all want the best for them. So whenever you're feeling inadequate, insecure or overwhelmed, remember that. If you ever question yourself or worry about your parenting abilities, that simply means that you want to be the best parent you can be for your child. I promise, you're doing great.. probably better than you think. Keep up the good work!

Sometimes we all need to hear it. :)

More to come.