Friday Fives

next
Simple Radiance for Date Night
Well another week has flown by and here we are on the cusp of a weekend. 

I have never loved and appreciated weekends more than I do now. #dadshome

My sister is supposed to fly in tomorrow but Chicago is supposed to get several inches of snow. That may present a bit of a problem, but we’ll see! 

We got a few inches of snow in Raleigh and it was pretty exciting! I love seeing a blanket of white outside my window. I do hate, however, what happened in Atlanta (and Birmingham too I think). Absolutely horrible. 

It’s been an okay week. There have been some difficult days with David, and I’ve run into some breastfeeding difficulties, but I’m really trying to stay positive and start every day on a fresh note. 

Long story short, I’m dealing with a great deal of soreness, bleeding, and discomfort. 

I have met with two lactation consultants, one of them was Michelle from Loves2Nurse(you can find the info for her on this site). I LOVED Michelle. She was really helpful, encouraging, and I felt like I was her number one priority the whole time she was with me. If you need a LC, I highly recommend her.

I’ve also seen a ENT doctor and a speech pathologist. So, we are taking steps to try and figure out the issue, but also being realistic and rational about the whole thing. 

Anyway, I know that’s kind of vague but it’s sort of personal and there are a lot of details that I’m sure many of you aren’t interested in! 

The high points of the week, however, are as follows:

1. The snow! 

2. 4moms was kind enough to send me the Origami stroller as a “thank you” for sharing about them on this post. I was so excited when it showed up at my door. We had a mild day earlier in on the week so we went for a walk in it. It was a smooth ride and I loved being able to see how far I walked on the screen. This stroller has some pretty swanky details, you can read about them here

3. While David napped I had a little bit of time to play around with the curling iron in my shorter hair. I’m hoping to film a tutorial this weekend! I’m still learning how to fit work in during the day, so I appreciate your patience in regards to the “typical” beauty content being a little sparse these days. 

4. Since David was breech, it was recommended that we do a ultrasound to check his hips. He was pretty much comatose during the appointment, and his hips checked out just fine!


5. My husband and I had a little gag gift exchange party with some friends and somehow we wound up with a dart board. I thought to myself, “well that is going to live in the corner of our garage for a few months. . ” and suddenly my husband hung it up on the wall one saturday. I don’t know why I doubted him. 

Anyway, we’ve been throwing darts at night (I know, so cool) and I am here to officially inform you that I hit the bullseye


And no, I wasn’t standing 1 foot from the board. 

Justin measured everything out to be the “official regulation” distance and height. 

I was pretty proud of myself. 

Later he said it’s no wonder I hit the bullseye given all the time I spend at Target. . .



Hope you have a good weekend! 
(oh and in case you didn’t know, this whole high five for friday thing started here)


I posted this on the Facebook page and thought I would share it here as well: I’ve received a few emails lately from readers wanting to start a blog. I guess new year, new ventures! I remember starting mine and wishing I could just talk to someone who blogged and ask questions. So, if you are in that position, I recommend reading the 3 part series I wrote. Also, if you have questions that are not answered in those posts, go ahead and post your question OVER HERE and I’ll try to cover it in a video. 

comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Leanne Webber says · 01.31.14

Lovely to read.
I love post like this that focus on the good points in life 🙂

nailsandteapots xx

Reply
Tammy says · 01.31.14

I want to encourage you to persevere through your nursing struggles. It’s not easy and I realize not everyone is able to nurse, but if you are able it is a beautiful thing. Our first was born early and struggled to learn to nurse. I pumped, nursed, and got sore (lanolin and cold compresses–special nursing pads–were helpful). It would have been good to see a lactation consultant sooner, but the help I did receive was wonderful. I was taught to teach our daughter to keep her tongue down when latching on, and I was given a special contraption that used tubing while I nursed. It had to do with a more immediate supply of milk. Finally, using the football hold to nurse helped me to heal. In all, it took 6 weeks for us to get in the groove of nursing. I also want to tell you your experience now may not be what you will experience in the future. With our other babies there have been few to no problems with nursing.

Reply
Kelly Kiser says · 01.31.14

I’m clicking on the link four your three part starting a blog series and it won’t work! :/

Reply
Kaitlyn S says · 01.31.14

This comment has been removed by the author.

Reply
kaitlynschwendeman says · 01.31.14

I just started a blog earlier this month, and I was so happy to read your three part series! I’m so glad that others can appreciate it as well. Thank you so much for your comprehensive wisdom. I’m sending calming and healing vibes, and just like you are keeping my fingers crossed for no flight delays 🙂

Reply
Devin says · 01.31.14

I knew I was in for some nursing difficulties when the pediatrician who examined my daughter immediately after she was born exclaimed “Wow, she’s got quite a strong suck.” I struggled with discomfort, bleeding, and soreness throughout most of the 15 months I managed to keep up nursing her. I wish I would have seen a lactation consultant sooner, if for nothing more than encouragement. I’m not going to be a mom to say, keep it up, it’s worth it, persevere, instead I’ll say, breastfeeding isn’t easy and it sounds like you are doing you’re absolutely best to continue and get the support that you need.

Reply
Meghan Fitz says · 01.31.14

No matter what happens with you adventures with nursing, you’re a great mom. I remember when I had to stop I felt so guilty and embarrassed to tell people. Don’t be hard on yourself. Do what you need to do. And eating a chocolate bar and crying about it is totally okay 😉 good luck momma!

Reply
Beth Rashleigh says · 01.31.14

Hang in there! Nursing is quite an adventure and you have to trust your gut to tell you the path forward.

Reply
Susan Wright says · 01.31.14

Cute Friday 5’s post. I had to use nipple covers. They worked great and allowed me to heal and toughen up. I also used lanolin as a nipple cream. Sometimes the older ways are better. It’s worth a try. Blessings to you and your ~

Reply
Nicole says · 01.31.14

I have read your blog for about a year and I do not agree with that picture nor do I think its funny. I live in Atlanta and had to deal with the horrors of Tues/Wed. It is not a laughing matter or even funny. How would you like it if you could not get to your son at all Tues night and had to leave your car and try to find shelter?! Please rethink before posting things like this. Our city is broken our government let us down. While the rest of the country laughs at us.

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

You know, you’re right. Probably too soon to post that. I’ll take it down ASAP

Reply
Traci says · 01.31.14

Those of us with little ones completely understand the changes that happen both in your work schedule and beauty routine. I’d really like to see “five minute” hair – something that doesn’t require curling first – for that exact reason. I love so many of your updos, but (maybe just because I’m inexperienced) they take me at least 15 minutes to do. For those mornings when I just cannot drag myself out of bed in time to curl/flat iron/updo, it would be awesome to see something super, super quick and simple besides just a ponytail or bun. No rush; just in your “free time.” 😉

Also, hang in there with the nursing troubles. My first was super hard too; I learned it’s all about the baby. She wasn’t a good nurser, so my milk supply never came in strongly. Her pediatrician suggested taking the supplement Fenugreek to help me make more milk and that helped the whole situation a TON. I nursed until she was nine months old. My second and third babies had no problems at all because they just happened to be good nursers. You’re doing the best you can, but you know what? If it just gets too painful, there is no guilt in a bottle. Seriously, don’t kill yourself and ignore all those meanies who make you feel like a bad mom if you have to use formula. Good luck!

Reply
Jennifer O says · 01.31.14

Good luck with the nursing issues. I, too, had to see a lactation consultant who fitted us with a tube one of your other commentors mentioned as well as this other contraption that fit over my nipple to help my baby latch on. It took patience and perseverance but it was so worth it.

But, if nursing doesn’t work out, don’t stress. It’s clear from reading your posts that you’re a great mom and David will be well-nourished no matter how you feed him.

Peace!

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

thanks 🙂

Reply
Angela Richardson says · 01.31.14

Not sure what exactly you’re dealing with in the nursing difficulties, but I will tell you my daughter was tongue tied. I had open sores for 8wks and severe pain. Eventually it worked it’s self out and I healed up but those 8wks were rough. There was no one in the area that could clip her tongue tie but I guess it stretched or I got tougher. She has no speech problems. Hope you guys find a solution, praying for you!

Reply
Blaire Harter says · 01.31.14

Hi Kate,
I’m a speech therapist who provides feeding therapy services here in Orlando. Let me know if I can help or provide any information. You are a wonderful mother and have already given David a strong foundation for health with the nursing you’ve done.

Reply
Babygirl says · 01.31.14

We got a dart board on a whim one night after dinner, when our friends were coming back to the house to hang out a bit. That thing gets used more then anything else in our house. It’s definitely made a lot of fun nights…enjoy!

Reply
Erin says · 01.31.14

I know lot’s of people are encouraging you about nursing. Just wanted to add mine 🙂 It took us what felt like forever to get the breast feeding thing figured out. (In reality I think it was about 2 months.) I was like you, sore, bleeding, and ended up with mastitis. With loooooottttttsss of hard work, we finally got there. BUT I’m also a NICU nurse and have seen mothers fall apart over breastfeeding and I wanted to say this: do what YOU need to do for YOUR family. As long as you do that, you’re doing the right thing. 🙂 Much luck to you and I’ll be praying for you!

Reply
Sydney Ashley says · 01.31.14

Hang in there with the nursing! I can sooo relate to all you mentioned above. It’s not an easy journey for all of us but so worth it…and I’m still going for my one year goal 🙂 praying for you and your little dude during this time!

Reply
Jill @ Bluegrass Belle says · 01.31.14

Hahaha about Justin’s Target comment and the bullseye! That is hilarious!!! 😛
I hope things work out for you with nursing your sweet baby, whatever the outcome may be. I have not minded your “lack of beauty” material one bit because I’ve kind of liked reading about your day-to-day life too.

Reply
Aerin Downs says · 01.31.14

Your baby is so so beautiful :)!

Berrie-Blogs: Beauty Blog x

Reply
EmilyB says · 01.31.14

This comment has been removed by the author.

Reply
LuAnn says · 01.31.14

My daughter used a shield that you place over your breast and baby can still nurse until the soreness goes away. It was actually made for women who have nipple problems, but it was great. We thought they need to tell all new moms about these!

Reply
EmilyB says · 01.31.14

I’m sort of gathering he might be tongue-tied? My 2nd was, and it made nursing so painful…ohmygoodness. The LC discovered it, and she gave me the name of an ENT who would clip it. I know not every Dr will do it, and I don’t know why. It’s not a big deal. It took exactly 2 seconds, and it didn’t even hurt my son. The Dr said there really aren’t any nerves there, so it doesn’t feel like much. I immediately noticed the difference when he nursed. And he talks fine (he’s 7 now) and everything. I looked at his tongue the other day, and I can’t tell it was clipped. My cousin was tongue-tied, and she did have a little speech difficulty when she was little, but they didn’t know that was why. They didn’t discover the tongue-tie till she was in Jr high. Weird. All that to say, if someone will clip his tongue, do it! And if they won’t, I would push for it. I really would. It will make such a difference. My son was dropping weight b/c he couldn’t get a good latch, and after that, he gained weight again like crazy (you do not even want to know how big he was…okay…he was 10lbs 1oz at birth and nursed 13mos. he weighed 33lbs at 1yr…huge moose). I don’t know why Drs won’t do the clipping. It doesn’t make sense to me. If you have any questions or need help, please email me. I had lots of different nursing challenges w/ all 3 of my kids, but I made it 13mos w/ each of them. It helps to have support. 🙂

Reply
AMKS says · 01.31.14

One of the lifesaver products that I discovered during the beginning of nursing were the Lansinoh Soothies Gel Pads. I kept them in the fridge and they felt like heaven!

Reply
Catie Shippen says · 01.31.14

Getting the nursing down can be such a long road 🙁 I remember driving to the hospital in tears at 3 am once to see my lactation consultant. They are the best! I think I probably drove mine to drink by the time all was said and done, but I got a year of breastfeeding out of it! 😉 DON’T feel bad about whatever decision you have to make. Remember that you have to be okay to take the best care of that sweet baby! And don’t worry about the lack of beauty content. This is a once in a lifetime experience and you should focus on him as much and as often as you can. Good luck with the breastfeeding! Just keep in mind it’s how much you love him that matters most, not what you put in his little tummy.

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

Thanks 🙂

Reply
Kathy says · 01.31.14

Breastfeeding can be so difficult. It was one of those things I wasn’t prepared for. Sure, I had taken the classes and knew what was SUPPOSED to be happening, but with both my girls, it was a challenge. Thank goodness for lactose nurses!! With my first, she was what I think my doula called a ‘barracuda’. 🙂 She wanted milk fast and wasn’t going to wait for me to figure out a latch that wasn’t painful. Even after 6 weeks of help with a lactation nurse and pumping on the side, I switched her to bottle. It was one of the best decisions I made because I actually enjoyed my time feeding her rather than crying, getting frustrated, etc. I With my second, I had a LOT of pain, bleeding and soreness. My heart aches for you because I know how hard that is–especially with the frequent feedings of a newborn. She was a lot more low-key and we worked to find better latches. I eventually healed and by the 3rd month I was able to feed without any pain. So each kid is different and it’s okay to say ‘this isn’t working’. I will be praying for you!

Reply
Lavakels says · 01.31.14

I realize you receive a lot of unsolicited advice…I just wanted to share my story with you.

I was not able to breastfeed either of my children (production issues) however, my oldest had been in speech therapy for 9 months when we discovered last September that he was tongue-tied. I made an appointment with his Pediatrician and was referred to an excellent ENT clinic. Less than a month later, he had a frenulectomy. The procedure was very fast (I went to the bathroom and he was done) and it only took about an hour for him to act like normal. The mouth is amazing, it healed incredibly fast. Since his was so severe, the doctor cauterized it as well as put in a couple stitches to make sure it didn’t fuse back together. He is still in speech therapy but what he can do now, vs what he could do before is amazing.

I know it’s a personal thing but good luck, and I hope you find the answers you need! 🙂

Reply
laura says · 01.31.14

Kate! I read through the comments and wanted to add my 2 cents… My daughter was also lip and tongue tied. There’s not a whole lot of info on it, and it wasn’t caught until she was about a month old. But I was in so.much.pain and using a nipple shield. Bless the LC that I met with who saw the problem. We saw a dentist here who does a quick laser procedure (traumatizing only for mama and dada:). And everything improved after. I bless you to find the answers you need

Reply
Natalie says · 01.31.14

rooting for you Kate! Breastfeeding isn’t easy. Have they checked David for tongue tie? Sounds to me like you might have a latching issue but it might not just be a position thing. If you end up pumping, let me know if I can help. I ended up exclusively pumping for my twins.

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

Yeah, the ENT said it was too small to do anything (not a great pay off for snipping it). I think it’s a combination of multiple things! I’m going to try to press through!
Thanks for offering help regarding pumping!

Reply
Nicole Meacham says · 01.31.14

I wrote a 3 part “Breastfeeding is Hard” series on my blog during my emotional struggle to continue with my second babe. Hopefully this will help feel less alone on the breastfeeding journey when it seems everyone else has it down.
http://kidsbynicole.com/breastfeeding-is-hard-part-1/
http://kidsbynicole.com/breastfeeding-is-hard-part-2/
http://kidsbynicole.com/breastfeeding-is-hard-part-3/

Best of luck!

Reply
Sam says · 01.31.14

Nursing can be so challenging. My 5 week old gets really fussy in the evenings and for the last few nights the only way I can get her to latch is by trying to nurse her while walking. My only advice is breathe, do what you can and try to take comfort in the fact that it will all work out the way it is supposed to. And when the nursing gets really tough, there are tons of mamas out there who can relate, who will support you and who can share a story or two that might help or at least make you laugh. Good luck!

Reply
Melissa says · 01.31.14

I’m sorry you’re going through a nursing rough patch. 🙁 I definitely had those with my babies. Hang in there!

Reply
GraceGirl says · 01.31.14

I doubt that you will read this comment, but I identify so strongly with this topic that I have to respond anyway. I know I certainly wouldn’t have had the time when my LO and I were still struggling with nursing (And do not apologize about your posts, that you post at all during this time of transition for both you and your baby is a feat in and of itself!) Breastfeeding was a struggle for a long time for my son and I. Latching was just a constant struggle. I consulted one lactation consultant and she thought my son would need speech therapy. I’m glad I kept pursuing help and ended up at a breastfeeding support group even though I never thought of myself as the support group kind of gal. It was so helpful. For whatever reason the nurse there was able to help me, in a way the other consultant was not able to. I set a goal to make to one month, three months, six months, etc. We ended up nursing for over a year and I was sad that our special time came to an end. You can be doing everything right and it can still be hard. It’s a learning curve for both you and your son. Also the Kellymom website was a very helpful resource for me along the way. Prayers for you and David.

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

thanks for the tip of kellymom! And I’m impressed you went over a year-that’s great! The encouraging comments from readers alone have been really helpful, I can see why a support group would help too!

Reply
Christina Harms says · 01.31.14

Just wanted to say I love your blog! I love the content, the PG-13 details you share, and the comments others leave! It’s always so funny, supportive, and interesting to read. Also, I’m looking forward to more content about starting a blog.

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

thanks!

Reply
Megan @ Homemade Ginger says · 01.31.14

So sorry about nursing…I’ve dealt with nursing issues with all three of my girls. The first two never nursed and I just pumped and gave them bottles for months. My baby did nurse but it was extremely painful and she ended up having to have her tongue clipped because she was tongue tied. If this is what you are running into, know that it’s no big deal and the procedure is super fast!

Also, all THREE of my girls had hip dysplasia so YAY for you for not having to deal with it. It’s really awful! Praise God his hips are healthy! 🙂

Reply
thea says · 01.31.14

This was about the time frame that I started having tough days with my daughter…I never had nursing troubles, so I can’t relate to that specifically, but I can say that what is tough today will probably be a mere memory next week. Hang in there, everything changes so fast! And your feelings are totally valid, even if it’s a short phase. As a big breastfeeding advocate, I’m really glad you’re still working through this spot!

Reply
Abby Butts says · 01.31.14

Sore nipples/breasts are the worst! Just when I thought I had this nursing thing down I ran into issues as well. My son was born tongue tied which gave us a rough start. I would get tears in my eyes thinking about him nursing because it hurt so badly. I pumped more to give myself a break and after a few weeks we were back to normal. Breastfeeding is not as easy as its made out to be and while producing breastmilk is natural, the act of getting your baby to properly latch and nurse is not naturally easy. I’m glad to hear you reached out for help and support! Those lactation ladies know their stuff!! Good luck to you!

Reply
Janet says · 01.31.14

I fell in love with your blog after discovering your hair tutorials and have watched just about every single one. Then I went and chopped my hair, and was bummed that I would be able to use most of them anymore. Sniff. But then you went and cut your hair, too, so I’m SO excited to see some tutorials for short hair! You know, when you get the time…

Polyvoring.blogspot.com

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

working on it!

Reply
Caitlin says · 01.31.14

Girl. I read your blog and have never commented before, but I just wanted to tell you that I am right there in the trenches with you as far as breastfeeding goes. I have a one-week old, and I am going through some challenges of my own. I never thought breastfeeding would be this hard!! Hang in there. It’s pretty mentally tough, I am finding. I struggle far more with feeling defeated all the time, so I’m praying for you and myself that our troubles don’t outweigh our joy. 🙂

Reply
Tabitha says · 01.31.14

sorry for your breastfeeding woes! 🙁 I cried every day for 8 weeks (it hurt so bad!!!) with my first and then it suddenly got better! I went to a free breastfeeding support group (offered at the hospital I delivered at) and it was awesome! Good luck lady!

Reply
Kristin says · 01.31.14

I feel for you! I had the same issues with breastfeeding. I saw multiple consultants and had her checked to make sure she wasn’t tongue tied. I was in serious pain for months and they never did find any issues- just the way she nursed I guess. I ended up sticking with it and made it to 5mo and eventually the pain stopped around 4 months. Gotta say though, I probably should have given in and just decided it wasn’t working for us and it wasn’t worth all the tears and stress. Sometimes you just have to give yourself a break. I could have enjoyed months of quality time bottle feeding her instead of crying and dreading feeding time. Just my two cents. Its a personal decision for everyone. Best of luck!

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

The ENT looked at a tongue tie and he’s not 🙂 Thanks for your encouragement!

Reply
Karla @ {The Fast Lane!} says · 01.31.14

So sorry you are having difficulties with nursing!! It can be discouraging when something that should come so naturally is met with so many uncontrollable obstacles. 🙁 As a mom of four littles under age 5 (including twin girls), I’ve had my share of nursing difficulties. And, you know, every child is different. My first born never seemed to gain enough weight for me have peace of mind…though, I did nurse him until he was a year and after that he plumped right up and has never had a sick child visit to the doctor. I ended up exclusively pumping for my twin girls after a month of trying to nurse…and I only did it for 6 months ~ figured that equaled a year! 😉 My main concern was that they get the breast milk and we were NOT bonding with the stressful nursing sessions. I used the Medela Freestyle and loved it!! I’ve recommended this to many mommas to try before they give up altogether. My fourth, who is now 10 months old, was actually slightly tongue-tied and had trouble nursing in the hospital. My wonderful lactation consultant was the only one who caught it and even the ENT gave us the option of clipping it as it was so very slight. We did, simply because I knew it shouldn’t be this hard to nurse, and we had driven an hour to the recommended ENT ( who is in Raleigh, BTW). He’s my biggest baby yet! All that to say, every situation is so very different and with much prayer, we choose the best route for our family. You got this!! After four children, I’ve also decided that love and cuddles are the most important things we can give our babies!

Reply
Heidi says · 01.31.14

Yay! I just read your comment & I am so glad you mentioned all of your troubles. I also have four kiddos and my first & my youngest were both tongue-tied and needed clipped. My husband was the one to catch it with our youngest. I was so miserable, like I had been with our first, so he decided to observe and spotted it right away. The first pediatrician sort of brushed it off and I proceeded to nurse for about three weeks in complete misery. Then our regular pediatrician asked if he was making me sore because he looked a little tongue-tied. I was so relieved!

To Kate, I want to encourage you to keep trying. I would have given up if not for my husband’s tenacity and for the fact that all of my babies have a dairy allergy. That soy formula is NASTY! So it helped me to stick with it. I would recommend asking about him being tongue-tied. It made a HUGE difference for me. I was shocked at how much better it was after they clipped the baby’s tongue. That being said, if it turns out it does need clipped, have the nurse hold him during the procedure, because it aint no fun for a mama to have to do it.

Whatever the trouble may be, keep it in prayer and don’t feel guilty if you can’t continue. I felt so awful because I dried up at 5 months with my daughter. But she’s a healthy 4-year-old now and I don’t think she’s bitter! 😉

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

I’m definitely in the boat of you have to do what works! 🙂 And the ENT looked at a tongue tie, and he doesn’t have one 🙂 Thanks for your encouragement!

Reply
Carrie P says · 01.31.14

I LOVE your blog and have followed you for quite some time. I have two little girls and struggled off and on with the nursing and never producing enough milk for them despite my best efforts. I was happy with how long I was able to nurse them, but I did have to supplement from time to time. Thank goodness for lactation consultants! Even if they couldn’t help me, just having someone there to encourage you is a BIG help. I just wanted to wish you the best with everything. Your son is adorable and you seem to be doing a fantastic job! Thanks for sharing!

Reply
Flossie says · 01.31.14

I’ve never commented before, and someone else already said something to this effect, but… Breastfeeding is hard. I expected it to be instictive, and is SO was not for me. Maybe for some moms, but def not for me. Anyway, my first and I really struggled. After many tears and a bout with mastitis, I threw in the towel…and hated myself for months for it. With my second, it was so much easier. No idea why, but we just got it. Different kids, I was more relaxed, etc. etc.

I guess my take-home message is this: it’s YOUR family. You need to make the decision about what is best for ALL of you. (Dad needs to be involved in the decision too!) When the decision is made, feel good about it. Breast or bottle, organic or non-organic, scheduled feeding or baby-led feeding….we’re all just moms who love our babies and want to give them the best. And your baby is going to love you for it, no matter what. Keep up the good work, momma!

Reply
Lauralea Matterson says · 01.31.14

I wondered if you had heard of, or thought, of Cranio Sacral Therapy for help with breast feeding. I took both of my children and had great success. It is especially helpful for c-section babies. My son had alot of trouble latching on correctly and I took him to a couple of CST session. After the first session we were breastfeeding successfully. The therapist can help to adjust bones in the babies palate to help latch on better.

Reply
Kat says · 01.31.14

I hope you can work out your breastfeeding difficulties, but let me say: it is more important for you to be happy than for the baby to get breast milk. If you feel like you want to stop, then stop, and don’t look back!

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

agree! Just trying to do what I can for this time!

Reply
Theresa says · 01.31.14

Kate,
I had a lot of difficult with breastfeeding…saw multiple lactation consultants…it was very discouraging I cried a lot and felt like I was failing if we had to do formula… finally I realized that a happy mom and happy baby were the best thing for all of us… breastfed or not… (I did supplement some when things were the worst… but now he’s 13 months and nursing is going great!) http://www.kellymom.com was a super help with nursing tips and ideas for me.

Thank you so much for sharing….so many woman look up to you – hearing your story will inspire so many moms!!
Nurse or not not you’re an AMAZING mom! – I’ll be praying for you!

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

I agree–you have to do what’s best for your family. I’m not anti-formula at all!

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

Great hit! You have to be pride of yourself!.
I am expecting my 5th child and I have to say that breastfeeding is a blessing.

Love to a snow-land!

Kate

http://www.jetpic.com

Reply
kristin says · 01.31.14

Hello, I know that everyone is giving you comments on what worked for them, etc. I just thought I’d throw in my 2 cents. BF’ing with my first baby (c-section baby) was pretty horrible – soreness, bleeding, my hormonal crying state, etc. I only lasted about 6 weeks. The second time around, it still had it’s mental challenges, but the physical discomfort was almost non-existent. I lasted a year, with some supplementing at nine months when pumping at work became difficult. I credit my wonderful laction specialist in the hospital giving me Medela Breast Shells. These are not SHIELDS, they are shells. Totally different things. I wore them religiously for the first week or two. Combining the shells with tons of lanolin helped me from getting ultra sore. I am pretty confident if I’d have had them the first time around I would have lasted much longer. I share this info with all my breastfeeding friends.

Hugs to you mama. You’ll do what works best for you guys, and that is always the right answer.

Reply
Griggs says · 01.31.14

Just wanted to second the shells recommendation. My second baby is three weeks old and they have been a lifesaver. I went through the hardest time in my life physically after my first son was born because of nursing challenges. They shells would have been such a help. Also, on a side note: I found out my son was breech at 37 weeks about two days after you mentioned your son being breech on the blog. The whole situation was extremely emotional and I did end up with a c section. Reading your posts on your experience lessened my fears and helped me cope. Thank you for sharing that. Your blog is so much more than hair tutorials. Keep doing what you’re doing!

Reply
Kelly says · 01.31.14

Hi Kate! I have only commented here a few times. As a fellow young, new mom, I just want to say that you are doing a GREAT job! I know you probably don’t need a random person who reads your blog to tell you that…but I have found that I love to soak up every bit of encouragement. I’m sorry to hear about your breastfeeding troubles. Good for you for going to an LC. I know you get A LOT of advice on here so I just wanted to send you some encouragement! Hang in there!!

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

Thanks Kelly!

Reply
Michele says · 01.31.14

You are doing GREAT! Pour love and grace all over yourself. Mercies are new every.single.day. Sixteen years into parenting and three children later, give yourself a break. Love ’em and keep ’em alive is what I like to say:). Enjoy the baby smiles and hubby’s jokes. It does get better! Oh, and one more thing. Lactation consultants ROCK.
xo,
Michele (countrymouse5 on Insta)

Reply
Kate says · 01.31.14

Thanks Michele!

Reply
D.Watson says · 01.31.14

Your positive attitude is so refreshing. I have three little ones and varying success with breastfeeding each. My first needed formula at 6 months because my body just stopped producing and some people made me feel like I was giving him poison. I think not stressing over it is truly important, by the time my third came along I breastfed for 15 months and she never had formula. I know its hard to run on little sleep and yet you are and staying positive, that’s a huge accomplishment, congratulations.

Reply
Jessica Jenkins says · 01.31.14

I had similar issues with breast feeding. We were seeing a lactation consultant because we had my issues with breast feeding and our son’s issues with weight gain. I was a basket case… how was he supposed to gain weight when I was his only source of food and we were having so much trouble with breast feeding?! One appt. with a consultant and she mentioned supplementing with formula in a bottle temporarily until we figured things out. We started treating his weight gain and breast feeding as two separate issues. Once we decided to start supplementing, it was a whole new world. I felt so much better about things. Feedings took a ton of time (I latched him first to breast feed, then gave him a bottle afterwards), we’re talking 30-40 minutes. We did that for every feeding until he was about five months old and stopped latching, basically he weaned himself. I’m glad I did everything I possibly could to stick it out and maybe next time will be different. Pretty sure this is why they call motherhood a humbling experience 🙂 Let me know if you have any questions about how we did this, I’d be glad to help!

Reply
Syren says · 01.31.14

Hydrogels are amazing. I’m sure you are getting a lot of advice, but that is what we give people where I work 🙂

Reply
C says · 01.31.14

Breastfeeding was way harder than I expected. I ended up exclusively pumping. It seemed like a good compromise – my baby was still getting breast milk, but I wasn’t struggling with latching, pain, poor weight gain, etc. etc. And dad (or anyone else) could feed him!! I was able to pump for several months and my son was on breast milk exclusively for 8 months and a mixture of bm/formula until he was 10 months. You’ll figure out what works best for you. 🙂 P.S. We have lots of similarities – I’m also from Northern IL, my son was born in December, breech, C-section, hip ultrasounds…

Reply
lsadler says · 01.31.14

This comment has been removed by the author.

Reply
Jess says · 01.31.14

Long time reader but I rarely comment. I will try to refrain from giving you *too much* advice on nursing…because I’m sure you’re sick of all the well-intentioned but unsolicited advice. 😉 Just want to say that I know you are doing a great job. HANG IN THERE! Don’t be afraid to continue to seek more help. I had a lot, lot, lot of struggles breastfeeding my daughter, which proved to be a very difficult, physically and emotionally taxing journey. On the physical front, Motherlove Nipple Cream was a GODSEND.

http://www.amazon.com/Motherlove-ML6870092-Nipple-Cream-1oz/dp/B001NWZUOA

xoxo

Reply
Rachel says · 01.31.14

I went through a very similar thing when nursing my firstborn. I’ve been in those emotional shoes! I ended up pumping until I healed up and then we “started over.” Oh, the pain. It was really hard but I ended up nursing until he was 12 months, which was my goal. Whatever you end up doing, offer yourself grace and know that your momma love will be enough no matter what happens.

Reply
Amy Sue says · 01.31.14

I think you are doing an amazing job! I had issues with cracking and bleeding and I know that hurts!! I ended up having to stop at about 8 weeks because my supply just plummeted. I commend you for seeking out so much help!! I wish I would have done that. I was never anti formula (as you’ve said you’re not either), but if a time comes when you realize you want/need to stop breastfeeding, it will be hard. It was for me anyway. I felt like my body as a mother was letting my baby down. I got past it though and Eli is a beautiful, thriving, formula-fed baby! Good luck!!

Reply
Katie says · 01.31.14

I never comment, but have been a reader for over a year now. I know you have gotten a ton of comments on this, I just wanted to offer a little encouragement from one mother to another. First, I think it’s wonderful that you are checking out every avenue to find the source of the issue. With my first, after 6 months of literal blood, sweat, and tears, it turned out I had been using a flange that was too small when I pumped. It damaged my nipples from the very beginning and made nursing so painful tears would stream down my face with every latch. At a breast feeding support group, when my daughter was 6 months, a LC asked what size flange I used and told me to get the next size up. That had been the issue the whole time and I never would have expected it and had thought I had exhausted all the avenues and was ready to throw in the towel. Second, I love your attitude about the whole thing, I’m sure there have been tearful moments, but I can tell you are doing what is best for YOUR family, and that’s the best thing you can do. Congratulations on the sweetest God-given blessing around, enjoy this precious time with him.

Reply
Lorri Thompson says · 01.31.14

Hi Kate. I thought you might like to read this article from Mommypotamus. Information is a good thing and this may give you something to consider regarding your breastfeeding challenge. ( Here’s a step-by-step guide to diagnosing tongue/lip ties at home: http://www.mommypotamus.com/a-step-by-step-guide-to-diagnosing-tonguelip-ties/ )

Reply
welcometothewings says · 02.01.14

Hi Kate! I have never commented but absolutely love your blog! I just had a baby boy in May and I can relate to you. My family does not live close and neither does my husband’s. I had such a hard time adjusting with the changes, demands of breastfeeding, etc. When I look back at it now I miss those days (even the exhausting ones)…cherish them, it goes by so fast! You are doing a great job!

Reply
DeniseMarie says · 02.01.14

I’ve read your blog for a couple of years, commiserated with your infertility struggles (after many trials, I had my sweet boy who just turned three in December), and prayed for you throughout your pregnancy. I’ve never commented before and simply cannot believe I’m about to offer unsolicited advice on breastfeeding. But I had many, many struggles with nursing, muscled through for 6 months while supplementing with formula, and throughout it all was just so very hard on myself. I cried many hot tears throughout that time and uttered the kinds of groaning prayers that only the Holy Spirit can understand. 🙂 What a time that was, ugh. It sounds like you have a much healthier attitude about it and are being kinder to yourself than I was, which is wonderful. Good for you! Whatever you do is going to be the right thing for you and your child. Period. Now for the unsolicited advice part. If your issues have anything at all to do with latch, David’s sucking strength or ability, his palate, etc. consider seeing a pediatric chiropractor–specifically one trained in craniosacral therapy. I did not do it with my Felix, but from what I’ve learned since then about how they can help correct the shape of the inside of a newborn’s mouth and other things that affect their ability to nurse effectively, I really wish I had. My best friend did take her son, and it completely rectified the problems they were having. You can find plenty of info online. Obviously I know none of the details of your particular and personal situation. But if the suggestion could in any way help or encourage you, I couldn’t navigate away from your page without offering it up. Blessings to you and your sweet family. Thanks for making your blog a gentle, uplifting, and inspiring place to spend a few minutes several days a week!

Reply
Lindsey - A.K.A Mama Bouchard says · 02.01.14

As a wise woman once told me, “Happy Mama = Happy Baby. Period.”

Reply
Sail1217 says · 02.01.14

My daughter was also breech, and I forgot about her passing the hip ultrasound! She’s just 17 months – how quickly we forget things. I’m glad he was good for you! I was super nervous taking my daughter because I thought she would cry the whole time, but she was awesome for it. I hope you can resolve your nursing issues.

Reply
Gina says · 02.01.14

Kate, my husband and I adopted our beautiful daughter 25 years ago. I did not breast feed, obviously and she turned out just fine! Seldom sick, always happy. She is the light of my life. She is a surgical nurse. Do not fret! A wise man once said ” the days are long and the years are short.”

Reply
Cate says · 02.01.14

Oh girl, I totally feel your pain with the breastfeeding issues (both literally and figuratively). Hang in there and you will eventually find some solution which works for the two of you, whatever that may be. 🙂 It’s emotional and difficult- DO NOT be hard on yourself.

Reply
Justina Gemignani says · 02.01.14

Breastfeeding was no easy task for the first several weeks. My daughter had a hard time latching, and we ended up getting her tongue clipped. Even after that there was a lot of bleeding and soreness. Good luck!

Reply
sarahg says · 02.01.14

I’m a single girl who has no breast feeding advice to give you. Reading the comments I’m in awe of all you moms!! I just wanted to comment that I love your blog! I’ve enjoyed all the baby posts. David is precious!! They are a great testimony to Gods faithfulness and it brings me joy reading about your life as a mom. Thank you for all the beauty posts (I learn so much from you) but also thank you for sharing your struggle to get pregnant because it makes the posts so much sweeter knowing the journey you went through to get him.

Reply
Frances says · 02.01.14

With our first, I had almost every breast feeding issue under the sun. Our daughter ended up needing her tongue and upper lip clipped. While I tried to heal from the damage caused from a poor latch, Dr. Newman’s nipple paste was a miraculous gift (you need a compounding pharmacy to get it) and using nipple shields. All of this to say that we did heal and we continued to breast feed through her first year. Prayers ascend! God bless you and David.

Reply
Whole Health Dork says · 02.01.14

OMG that stroller is amazing! I didn’t know they even made things like that! I don’t even have kids, but I’m excited at the prospect of something like that! What a nice thank you gift!

Reply
HeatherSies says · 02.01.14

Hi Kate! I am a hairdresser and was curious if you have ever blogged about how you built your business/clientele when you were still doing hair? I’ve been in the business for awhile now and would love any advice you have about how to gain more clients….

Reply
marisaporter.com says · 02.01.14

Thank you so much for the blog series! I need it right now. I love my blog and can’t stop thinking about it but need more guidance.

Reply
Marie Turner says · 02.02.14

My son was tongue tied, I believe quite severely. We had it “snipped” twice but in not sure it improved his latch a great deal. I used nipple shields which did help. In the end I only bf exclusively for 3 months and pumped for another 3 1/2. After my experience (which was really difficult now when I think back) I firmly believe that you should do whatever is right for YOU and your baby. Good on your for getting help & support. You’re doing a great job by the looks of things 🙂

Reply
Tammy says · 02.02.14

Love the stroller ! And your hair is gorgeous, I love it shorter !

Reply
Beauregard Cdi says · 02.02.14

Bonjour,
J adore vos tuto coiffure : i like your hair tuto. I don’t speak english fluently BUT i undestand the problem of SNOW…. then come in France …there is no snow yet ! Salut et à bientôt !

Reply
Adrianna says · 02.02.14

My son had a hard time latching in the beginning so the nurses at the hospital suggested I try these nipple shields that they sell at Target. He was immediately able to latch and I noticed I never felt any pain or discomfort while breastfeeding with those. I never got chapped nipples or bleeding either with those. After three months, my son finally latched on without the shields and that is when my nipples started to get really tender and sore and slightly chapped. So you may want to try using those and see if they help. Just a suggestion!

Reply
Rachel Patton says · 02.02.14

This comment has been removed by the author.

Reply
BWN says · 02.03.14

I know you have already received so many comments about this, and probably a lot of unsolicited advice in general, but your story really resonates with me, as I went through such similar struggles. I had my son in November of 2012. I was determined to breastfeed, but no amount of determination could get my son to latch on. We struggled for two weeks, with me pumping in the meantime, before I got him latched with the help of a nipple shield. We finally weaned off the nipple shield, and that’s when the bleeding/cracking/soreness started. I finally sought the help of a lactation consultant, who diagnosed my son with a tongue and lip tie. We went to a very breastfeeding friendly ENT, whose wife had nursing struggles due to a tongue tie, and he clipped it in a very quick in office procedure. I know you said you went to an ENT and he said a tongue tie wasn’t the issue, but I would urge you to seek a second opinion. Believe it or not, many doctors do not “believe” in tongue ties and the role they can play in breastfeeding problems. If the tie isn’t the obvious anterior tie, but the more sneaky posterior tie, many can dismiss it altogether. The procedure is so simple, and for me, the results and increased comfort with the latch were instantaneous, that I will consider having it done prophylactically with any future children. Your problems sound so similar to mine – struggle to gain weight, the bleed/soreness, etc. It might be worth a second opinion.

And finally, I will echo what everyone else has said and say that it isn’t what you feed your child that determines how much you love them. With that said, for me, breastfeeding was a challenge I wanted to “beat”. I wanted to fight for it, and now, 15 months later and still going strong, overcoming all of the problems we have had (low supply, clogged ducts, eventually nursing on one breast exclusively) has become one of my greatest accomplishments as a mother, and as a woman. I’m not the running type, but this is my personal “marathon”. It is OK to fight for it, and it is also OK to recognize that it may not be the right choice for your family.

Hang in there!

Reply
Tim, Jennie, Paisley, Claire and Moose says · 02.04.14

Kate, hang in there, the nursing does get better but I do understand. I had my second baby girl in November and ended up with open bleeding sores and then thrush. It caused lots of tears but I made it through with a couple of things. Don’t be afraid to pump a couple of times to rest your breasts. Also my Dr. prescribed “newmans” cream for the sores and it helped them heal so much faster then anything else and is safe for baby. You do have to get it at a compounding pharmacy. For the thrush the best stuff was grapefruit seed extract. It is all natural and you can find it at a health store or online and once again safe for baby. I don’t know what you are going through but hopefully that helps. I am glad you found a good LC but you might also see if you have a Le Leche league in your area because having support helps.

Reply
Tim, Jennie, Paisley, Claire and Moose says · 02.04.14

Oh, I did forget to mention that we did clip our daughters tough as well. In the hospital the Dr. said that she was fine and it would stretch out but at her two week appointment after all the problems nursing we decided to do it because our peditriction talked to us about it and his struggles with his son because they didn’t do it until he was two. So consider that.

Reply
MG says · 02.04.14

Kate, I’ve followed your blog for sometime now, but have never written. We struggled with infertility with both of our children. Breast-feeding was difficult, but even more so with our second. Without spilling my story in your comment section, ask the ENT to check David’s palate. At age 14mo, our daughter was finally diagnosed with a submucous cleft palate and bivid uvula. It’s my understanding that this symptom is often missed by many pediatricians and ENT’s. We were lucky to catch it.

Reply
Inspired Mom says · 02.05.14

Just wanted to send you encouragement! I know breastfeeding can be very personal. We had a lot of struggles as well, had to see lactation consultants often and it took us about 2 months for things to start getting better. I hope things work out for you!

Reply
Amy and Bryan says · 02.05.14

If needed use a shield. I had an overactive letdown with our first and he needed it to control the flow. Our second was a preemie and we used them in the beginning with him as well because it helped him latch. They did not effect my production, in fact with my second I was able to donate over 600 oz to the Mother’s Milk Bank to be used with preemies in the hospital.

Reply
Niki Kline says · 02.05.14

Girl, I just googled “Top Fashion Blogs” and clicked on the link and your blog was on the list! Way to go, Lady 🙂 I’m sure I’m behind the times and you’ve been UBER popular for a while now, but I was so proud of you when I saw it!! I’ve been reading your blog for some time now (I think years sounds like a long time, but I think it’s true). Love your tutorials!! Just wanted to say WAY TO GO! Congrats on your little one as well. I started a new “fashion” blog to showcase my business, Homecoming Trunk Shows. If you ever want to check it out it’s http://www.nikiklinehts.blogspot.com

Reply
skradebaby says · 02.05.14

Lanolin. Lots of it, after every every feeding until things are back to normal. (I made it 13 months with each of my three kids – hang in there!)

.ivy

Reply
Brittany K says · 02.08.14

Oh my word I am super jealous of your awesome strollers! They didn’t have amazing strollers like that available in our area when I had our first babe 3 years ago…I’d gladly buy one of your used ones from you for our next babies if you decide you don’t need two regular strollers! 🙂

Reply