What’s On My Nursing Table

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It’s Cool
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I’m nearly a month into breastfeeding and I thought it would be fun to share what lives on my nursing table. 

I spend at least 4 hours of my day in my glider*, nursing David, and I’ve collected an assortment of things for my benefit and for his. 

*I love this glider! First of all, it’s from Target so you can’t really go wrong. Secondly, it offers good back support and holds you in a good position for nursing, but still allows you to lay your head back. I got the matching ottoman as well and love the entire piece. 

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1. Befine Lip Serum. Probably one of the most hydrating lip serums I’ve ever used. I received it in a Birchbox awhile ago and will definitely repurchase when I run out of it.

2. Earth Mama Angel Baby Natural Nipple Butter. A package arrived from Amazon a few days ago and in it was 3 containers of this nipple butter. I hadn’t ordered it, and there was no receipt. But there was one thing I knew: a GOOD friend was looking out for my nipples. Bless her soul.

Later that day I was talking to my friend Kacia and she warned me that a package would be arriving soon, and the mystery was solved. She had sent me the nipple butter, and told me it was her favorite when she was nursing. My love for her grew even deeper and so far I can really tell that this stuff works. 

If you are trying to make your way even deeper into a friends’ heart, send a sister some nipple butter. Care and consideration for those poor things is greatly appreciated. 

3. Ddrops. As per our pediatrician’s recommendation, we are giving David 1 drop of this vitamin a day. It’s easy to use and he doesn’t even seem to notice it.

4. Nail clippers. When David is nursing, and is ultra relaxed (which is pretty much constantly. The child can hardly stay awake to eat.), I use that time to clip his nails. They seem to grow at roughly the speed of light, so staying on top of them and keeping them short is key. Have you ever cut baby nails? They barely even count as nails. They bend and fold so it can be difficult to get a good “clip” in them. But somehow, even though they seem way to soft to even trim, he has scratched his face up pretty good with them already. 

5. iPad Mini. I’ll either surf the web or continue reading Divergent. My sister recommended that book to me and so far I’ve liked it. It can be a little graphic/gory at times, but I’m intrigued to see what will happen next. I never read The Hunger Games, but I do feel like it’s a little bit of a rip off from that concept. Either way, it’s an easy read and is interesting. 

6. Digital Clock. I like to note how long David is spending on either side while he nurses, so a digital clock was a must-have. 

7. Notepad and pen. To make lists of things we need, groceries, etc.

Not Pictured: endless pile of water bottles, tissues to wipe my tears from the toe-curling pain of the initial latch (that gets better right?), and caramels. I tell myself that I deserve a caramel for just about any reason these days, so there are plenty stashed by my nursing table. 

In fact, when I pump I eat a caramel and call it my “pump present”. 

My humor has clearly increased since giving birth, am I right? #youcanlie 

Once I get really talented I may be able to nurse in different areas of the house. But for now, I like my little set up in his nursery. I’ve got all the blankets, burp cloths, pillows, and gadgets I need right there. 

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ErinKremer says · 01.06.14

Yes! I can only speak for myself but after the first month or so that pain of the initial latch and any other part that was uncomfortable seemed to get much better. Nobody seems to tell you that breast feeding, although natural and wonderful, is HARD! Stick with it, it does get easier! I think you owe yourself more than just one caramel, and I think I may adopt that concept. πŸ˜‰ keep it up!

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ErinKremer says · 01.06.14

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Alisia says · 01.06.14

With my first I had a basket that I could take from room to room filled with all my essentials, nipple butter being the must have! With my second I planned to use the basket again but found I didn’t need any of it, somehow everything changes when there are two!

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JB Larrabee says · 01.06.14

butter makes everything better, including nipples! enjoy your nursing time with David as he is the lucky first baby (praying you are blessed with more) and you get to indulge him and yourself and it is something you’ll cherish always.

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Aline@TamedMusings says · 01.06.14

Yes, the pain gets better! On average it´s 15 days of lots of pain, and then it´s just plain wonderful. I had some pain when baby was about 3 months because he would pull on my nipple, but I would always take him off the breast, explain he couldn´t do that cause it hurt me, and then put him back. He stopped after about 2 days, but the pain lasted about a week. But hang in there, it will stop!

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Amy Hartman says · 01.06.14

Yes, the discomfort will go away! And soon you will be able to nurse while doing anything and everything (fo realz). From, a mom who’s been lactating for the past three years πŸ˜‰
P.S. if your poor girls need some comfort, check out Bamboobies nursing pads. Regular nursing pads, especially disposable, scratched my already tender duds up, and these suckers were heaven-sent.

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amandacspeese says · 01.06.14

I loved that nipple butter when nursing both of my girls! And yes, the pain does get better. You should be getting close to some relief! Hang in there!!!

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Lins - Domesticated Working Woman says · 01.06.14

My nursing table is very similar. I delivered my boy 5 weeks early the day before your C-section.

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Brandi says · 01.06.14

I’m at 5 weeks with my little guy, and I can honestly say it gets better. I use a lot of breast pads to keep the areas dry as well. I love to see what is on your table and what you are using with David. Best of luck and congratulations x 10 on your little blessing.

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Kelly Timberlake says · 01.06.14

Make sure there isn’t a tongue tie or lip tie causing the nipple pain–it’s very common and can be fixed so easily to make breastfeeding less painful, so it’s always worth checking for when I hear someone say “toe curling pain”.

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Catherine Ray says · 01.06.14

For me I just made sure my little guy opened him mouth wide enough. It looked SUPER wide but the lactation nurse said it was right. He was more around my nipple than on it. It solved the pain problem and it even caused no problems while nursing him as a toddler. He was fully weaned at 15 months.

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Hillary Jones says · 01.07.14

This makes ALL the difference! With all three of my girls, this is what made the difference. That and letting my nips air dry with breastmilk on them instead of creams.

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JessiferSeabs says · 01.06.14

It really does get better, but I remember the days of digging my toes into the carpet in pain while James latched.. and then for a while only one side hurt, and then it stopped hurting too. My “nursing table” staples were mostly the same ,but I also had a pump bottle of nice lavender body lotion, which helped to chill me out if things got stressful!

I love that whole line of Earth Baby stuff… the nipple butter is wonderful, they also make these things called “boobie tubes” That can be microwaved for :30 and placed on your breasts to sooth them… so so warm and cozy…

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Traci says · 01.06.14

Where did you get your iPad cover? I’ve been looking for a good one, but most of the ones I’ve seen are too masculine. I’m a sucker for a good pattern.

Also, regarding Baby’s latch, don’t hesitate to see your pediatrician’s lactation consultant. I did that with all three of my babies, even the one who nursed well. It never hurts to see if there’s something that can be done to improve the situation. Good luck!

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Mary says · 01.06.14

Clipping babies finger nails is much easier if you just bite them off while they are sleeping to cut down on the wiggling baby issues (sounds odd/a little gross) but with nail clippers you will eventually clip skin and babies bleed like crazy (not to mention the screaming & bawling Momma). Congratulations on your beautiful boy!

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Stephanie M says · 01.06.14

I may be the only one to comment on your reading choice, but I highly recommend that you read Hunger Games if you like Divergent. It’s so good; and as a mom that nursed twins, sometimes my reading material really mattered!

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chayes866 says · 01.06.14

Since everyone is putting in their suggestions πŸ˜‰ You can also get gel pads from Medela. You can put them in the fridge and wear for a few minutes after nursing. They were awesome. Such relief! Thanks for sharing what’s on your table! It sounds like you are Enjoying these days – awesome, because they are do precious and go by far too fast. ♡

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Amy Teepen says · 01.06.14

I remember those days and the items on my nursing table.. Treasure these moments! The toe curling pain should go away.. I nursed my four boys 9 out of 15 years during my “productive years”. I nursed each one a little longer.. Moments to treasure and it truly was so beneficial for them, they were very healthy. If you are Blessed with being able to nurse, good for you and them! I kept a small notebook on my table and kept track of when/how long they nursed..by the fourth child it became kind of like a diary. It’s neat to go back now and read about those precious times and see our schedule and what our day involved. My “baby” is going to be 12 soon..Cannot believe it – Time truly does fly when you are having fun! Enjoy each and every precious moment!!!

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Pamela says · 01.06.14

Call a lactation consultant. I wish someone made me (mom of 4, nursed them all). I persevered through the pain, but I scarred and had persistent subsequent struggles. Call a lactation consultant. Your delivery hospital likely sent the information home with you in the paperwork.

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Liz says · 01.06.14

Haha when I went back to work I packed (and still sometimes do) cookies in my pump bag as a little present to myself! The pain does get better πŸ™‚ congratulations on a beautiful baby boy!

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Whit says · 01.06.14

Another tip for sore nipples is to rub the breast milk all over them and let it air dry. Good for you to breast feed! I’ve done it with my two but it is not as easy as it sounds. Ps- I’ve read your blog forever and you’re adorable!

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Shasta says · 01.06.14

Ugh I remember the days of toe curling pain. I only had it for about 2 weeks, so since you are a month in I would call a LC to make sure everything is ok. His latch could be wrong, or he may have a tongue tie, or some other issue. Glad to see you aren’t letting the pain stop you from breastfeeding!

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theannabelleblog says · 01.06.14

If you are liking Divergent, it will be worth powering through book two, because the newly released book three is SO good. The plot blew my mind and I also realized that my emotional attachment to the characters was much more than I had realized!

(But yes, Hunger Games rules!)

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Emily Hall says · 01.06.14

That Nipple Butter saved me when I nursed my first!! I still have it for when #2 comes. Great job mama!

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Maggie Baker says · 01.06.14

Ahh – I love the Divergent!!! My husband got me hooked some time before Christmas and now I’m on the third book, already!! Can’t wait for the movie to come out!!! :))
M.
daisiesbliss.blogspot.com

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Becky Lynn says · 01.06.14

Oh yes, the pain goes away. For me, I was about 6 weeks before we got the hang of it, but if is toe curling, I would go to a lactation consultant or attend a LLL meeting. They can check latch and make sure you are both doing well. Here are some resources on latch from one of the best breastfeeding websites, KellyMom.
http://kellymom.com/ages/newborn/bf-basics/latch-resources/
Congrats, and best of luck!
(From a mama that nursed her 1st for 2 years and is excited to have that relationship with her 2nd in a few months!)

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Rachel says · 01.06.14

A pump present?!? That’s an amazing concept!!

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maryj85 says · 01.06.14

You deserve as many caramels as you want!

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Nana T says · 01.06.14

Kate, Yes it does get better. Just make sure David is latching onto a bit of the areola not just the nipple. It really makes a difference. Sounds like you have things under control. You have a lovely FAMILY now!!
God Bless

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Sonja says · 01.06.14

My favorite nursing present was The Brest Friend nursing pillow. ..changed my life!!

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kristine says · 01.06.14

YES!!! I loved that thing! Made nursing so much easier than the boppy.

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kristine says · 01.06.14

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Tiffany H. says · 01.06.14

I had this as well and it was awesome!

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Sonja says · 01.06.14

My favorite nursing present was The Brest Friend nursing pillow. ..changed my life!!

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Megan {Willow Way Blog} says · 01.06.14

We have that glider and love it! I stink at drinking water and it really affected my supply so I always kept a big Nalgene full of water on my nursing table too πŸ™‚

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Kacia Hosmer says · 01.06.14

whoa! i love that glider — and the price. We never got one when I had Harlow, because our current 600 squ ft apartment didn’t have room for one more piece of furniture…but i love that!

Also. love you.

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Mary says · 01.06.14

Please, please, please make an appointment with a lactation consultant today. Breastfeeding should NOT be painful and is a sign of an incorrect latch. As others have suggested, the description of pain you gave makes me suspect that David is tongue tied. Tongue tied babies cause their mommies a world of pain while breastfeeding, but there is a simple fix for it and mothers often report decreased pain immediately. Our second child was tongue tied and we had his frenulum clipped at three weeks of age. It is a very simple procedure and takes just a few seconds to do. In any case, please go see a lactation consultant for an assessment and support, you should not have to suffer through toe-curling pain.

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Brandee Rook says · 01.06.14

I nursed my son for 11 months. The latch gets better after 6-8 weeks or so. I always laughed when people said nursing shouldn’t be painful. Grayson had a great latch every time, but I still thought I was going to die the first few seconds. That feeling comes back when they start to bite down….

Also, I was very attached to my nursing spot and nursing pillow until Grayson was big enough to support his head. I found it very difficult to nurse without support for the first 4 or so months. One small piece of advice (as if it’s not being thrown at you constantly…), if you plan to nurse in public under a hooter hider, start using it at least once a day at home. I usually went to the car to nurse and didn’t use my hider extremely often, but when I did, he always tried pulling it off bc it was distracting and he wasn’t used to nursing under it.

Enjoy every minute. Even the exhausting, frustrating, crying moments. It gets better. You will miss those little newborn snuggles so very much.

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Emily Robinson says · 01.06.14

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Beth says · 01.06.14

Also if you had antibiotics in the hospital, you could have a yeast infection (yes in your breasts). With my first I had excruciating pain and cracked nipples from an infection. Once I got a prescription for Diflucan it cleared up and I had no more pain breastfeeding. On the flip side, I had no antibiotics with my second child and didn’t have the pain. Just something to think about!

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Ashley Ables says · 01.08.14

The same thing happened to me–I was going to suggest this! I kept waiting for the pain to go away with my first and it never did. Then I found out I had a yeast infection. Two days later–all better!

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Maggie McKee says · 03.08.17

Yeast infections are caused by FUNGUS, not bacteria. Antibiotics would not matter in cases of a fungal infection.

Covering breasts while still wet with milk WILL cause yeast to not only grow, but thrive.

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The Newnams says · 01.06.14

When my babies were that small I used a baby nail file to do their nails. They are so thin and flimsy that the nail file does perfect, plus you don’t have to worry about cutting them at all.

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Martha says · 01.06.14

My sister has a 3 month old and she’s been using a file instead of clipping his nails. She uses a crystal file and said she’s never cut him once!

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Courtney says · 01.06.14

Congratulations a zillion times! Sounds like you have this nursing thing down, and it does get easier and after the pain subsided…nursing became my meditation, my favorite thing about having a newborn. I didn’t even mind getting up multiple times a night, bc I missed baby boy so much and I knew it was our special time. It gets easier as many of the comments above, you will become even more of a pro. Nursing on your side, while walking around, holding him like a football (it will all come soon). Many months after he was born we started nursing in different spots and we would nurse in my bed, laying down and fall asleep together. It was such a blessed time and it all goes so quick! Before you know it, he’ll be eating with his own fingers and you’ll be longing for your little nursing santuary. It’s a beautiful time and your are a beautiful couple! XO

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Kate Scott says · 01.06.14

Expecting my first in February! I definitely am taking notes!

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bonnieshee says · 01.06.14

It probably took 3-4 weeks for the pain with that initial latch to get better. You should be close, though I’m concerned that it’s still “toe curling” at this point. If it’s not improving soon, definitely get it checked.

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Melissa Bird says · 01.06.14

Not sure if anyone told you this, but a trick I learned when my daughter, Rory, was a baby was instead of clipping her nails, just peel them – they are thin enough and I could usually get them shorter than with clipping. At first I thought I peel off her whole nail, but I never did πŸ™‚ It worked REALLY well.

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kristine says · 01.06.14

I totally had a digital clock too to keep track of how long my daughter nursed while in the nursery! I remember how nice it was when I didn’t have to use it anymore. She is 23 mos old now and still loves to nurse!

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Ashort says · 01.06.14

The pain comes to an end. Consider seeing a lactation consultant. My appt wasn’t helpful, but I think that was just my experience with a new consultant. The one at the hospital was great. I will say though, the latch got better for us as baby got older. He’s 3 months now and zero pain! I continue to use the nipple cream! Stick with it πŸ™‚

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Morgan S. says · 01.06.14

Thanks for the tips! Even though I’m about to have my 3rd baby, it’s always nice to hear tips from other moms on things they use (Lord knows it all changes so fast and new things come out!) I will definitely look into Nipple Butter…I do remember the initial latching and OMFG…I put the F in there to highlight the pain factor. I plan on keeping the Kindle on my table and actually do some reading that I never get to do!
http://www.styleoyster.blogspot.com

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Brynn Elisabeth says · 01.06.14

I felt like it took about 3 mos. til things felt “normal” for nursing. You can do it! It’s hard but it will get better!

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moodymom44 says · 01.06.14

Try expressing a few drops yourself, and rub it on before he latches on. That’s what finally worked for me. After about a week of that it stopped hurting. Don’t give up, it really does stop hurting

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Anne Prado says · 01.06.14

YES it does get better!! Soon all the pain will go away and it’ll be one of the most relaxing things for you to do (you know, once you’re nicely set). Although by the time you have 3 kids (like me) you’re much less dependent on your little spot (and you’ll be amazed of how many things can get a accomplished with a baby on your boob :).

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KellyAnn says · 01.06.14

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KellyAnn says · 01.06.14

Where did you get your iPad cover? I recently got one, yay!, and am in the market for one.

By the way, I love keeping up with our blog. Congrats on being a mama!

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Heidi Joe says · 01.06.14

I just file my baby’s nails. They go all the way down in just a few swipes of the file since they are so soft, and then you don’t have to worry about bleeding!

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Melanie says · 01.06.14

From latching on to sucking … there should not be ANY pain. I breastfed three boys for over a year each so I know a little what I am talking about, lol. It might be as simple as getting him to open his mouth wider … baby gums are sharper than you think! Try to tease him with the nipple (and that does sound so wrong) and when he roots for it he will open his mouth wider. Stick it in. I hope that makes sense? Good luck. It is hard but I miss it so much now.

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villagegirl says · 01.06.14

Sometimes there is pain – whether the baby’s mouth is small – our your skin is more sensitive than another persons. There can definitely be pain. I breast fed my 2 for a full year each but the first 2-6 weeks were excruciating and I was doing it right according to the doctors and lactation experts. Everyone tells you there shouldn’t be any pain but no 2 people are exactly the same so they can generalize all they want but it’s a different experience for each person.

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Angela Mazzolini says · 01.06.14

I agree. I have super sensitive skin and a baby who was a barracuda eater. There was pain and I was doing everything exactly like I was supposed to according to two different LCs. But it only lasted for a few weeks and then my skin toughened up and we were all good.

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beth says · 01.06.14

It will get better. I spent 3 years of my life nursing my babies. I miss it now. Such special time spent with the little ones.

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Stacy Williams says · 01.06.14

Your pregnancy/newborn posts have been so informative! I would love if you had a section on your blog of all your pregnancy/newborn posts compiled together. My husband and I aren’t planning on having kids for a few years, but when I do get pregnant, I for sure will be reading up on all of your old posts. I just don’t want to miss any when trying to search for them again!

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Abby Butts says · 01.06.14

Yes it will get better. Be vigilant about ensuring he has a good latch and make sure you are taking care of you. There were nights I had to pump and bottle feed or supplement with formula to give my girls a break and time to heal. Stick with it you can, it will get better.

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Cammie Brownson says · 01.06.14

Oh goodness, the blood curling pain was the worst!! And super frustrating because none of my friends had encountered that pain! Mine lasted for a while, then got a little better but slowly came back as I was weaning my little guy. I saw at least 4 doctors/lactation specialists about the pain but as far as they could tell, I was doing everything “right”. My mom had the same pain with all 5 of her kids so maybe its a little hereditary too? Good luck! btw – LOVE your blog…both beauty and mommy advice!

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Sarah W. says · 01.06.14

I was going to say the same thing as Melanie, if you kind of “tickle” his lips with your nipple and get him to open his mouth rather wide, then put it in there. His lips should be out, not tucked in at all, all the way around (think duck face lips lol). If he’s not latched on correctly still slide your finger in to break his suction so it doesn’t hurt and try again. I nursed all 3 of my kiddos, my third was the hardest, most painful one, she couldn’t get her latch down well at all, kept losing weight, my poor nipples were a mess, and we ended up having to use a supplemental nursing system (such a pain in the butt!), but it was so worth it in the end! She ended up getting the hang of it about 5 weeks in, my nipples healed up and the pain was gone. I ended up nursing her longer than my other two, she weaned at 18 months. It can be so hard, but it does get better, hang in there momma! Do what works best for you and David! I will say too, that our hospitals lactation specialist was amazing and such a huge help! I went to see her many times and there were visits where I sat in her chair just crying while she manhandled my nipples into the babies mouth and it blew my mind how when she did it, it was so easy and painless, I wanted to take her home with me lol. πŸ˜‰ All that to say, they really are great, very helpful and encouraging ladies! πŸ™‚

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Sarah W. says · 01.06.14

I was going to say the same thing as Melanie, if you kind of “tickle” his lips with your nipple and get him to open his mouth rather wide, then put it in there. His lips should be out, not tucked in at all, all the way around (think duck face lips lol). If he’s not latched on correctly still slide your finger in to break his suction so it doesn’t hurt and try again. I nursed all 3 of my kiddos, my third was the hardest, most painful one, she couldn’t get her latch down well at all, kept losing weight, my poor nipples were a mess, and we ended up having to use a supplemental nursing system (such a pain in the butt!), but it was so worth it in the end! She ended up getting the hang of it about 5 weeks in, my nipples healed up and the pain was gone. I ended up nursing her longer than my other two, she weaned at 18 months. It can be so hard, but it does get better, hang in there momma! Do what works best for you and David! I will say too, that our hospitals lactation specialist was amazing and such a huge help! I went to see her many times and there were visits where I sat in her chair just crying while she manhandled my nipples into the babies mouth and it blew my mind how when she did it, it was so easy and painless, I wanted to take her home with me lol. πŸ˜‰ All that to say, they really are great, very helpful and encouraging ladies! πŸ™‚

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Brittany says · 01.06.14

Nursing certainly can be painful, even if you are doing everything right. In my opinion, pain should be expected when really sensitive skin is all the sudden being sucked on vigorously for hours out of the day. I saw a lactation consultant thinking I was doing it all wrong because I was in a ton of pain when my baby latched on. Turns out her latch was fine and she really was getting enough milk, I was just being a nervous first time mom. Baby is now 9 weeks and it hasn’t been until the last week that it stopped hurting when she latched. Now it’s easy-peasy and I enjoy it much more than I did the first 8 weeks. πŸ™‚

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Jessica Rodarte says · 01.06.14

I’m a long time lurker. I really enjoy your blog. I’m coming out of the shadows to say that the pain does get better. I’ve breastfed all 4 of my girls. My youngest is 3 months. Still breastfeeding and so relieved the pain has finally subsided. Breastfeeding consultants were my best friends. I air dried my nipples forever to help toughen them. It felt bizarre walking around topless, but anything to relieve the pain!
You’ll get through this! πŸ™‚

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Mama Fuss says · 01.06.14

Yes, pain gets better. Remind me of this in a couple of weeks though okay? My 3rd child is due in 2 weeks so I will be right there with you. Collecting book recommends right now for Kindle books. πŸ™‚ and that nipple butter is awesome and so much better than what seems to be the most common Lansinoh. That stuff is good but so incredibly sticky!

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villagegirl says · 01.06.14

Such a cute post! Yes, the pain does get better. It took about 5 weeks – not saying to discourage – just keeping it real! I nearly gave up both time and my hubby was almost to the point of making me as he couldn’t stand seeing me in tears every couple hours, every single day but…it does get better. I was told fair skinned people feel it more?? All I know is it HURT! You know you have a true friend when they send you nipple cream. πŸ™‚ You aren’t necessarily doing anything wrong. Don’t think that. Sometimes it just hurts even when they’re latched on properly. He may have a small mouth – in which case there’s nothing you can do! I know it’s been said…but hang in there! It does get easier.

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Gina says · 01.06.14

I had the most horrible pain with the latch too. My lactation consultant told me to literally push his face into my breast to let him latch verses having him grab it to suck on. This allowed a deep latch and the pain shortly went away. You are doing a great job and sometimes it hurts until your nipples get “rough” as scary as that sounds

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MamaBear says · 01.06.14

Your son is adorable, and you look fabulous too! I commend you for nursing through the pain, and if you’re still reading comments, something else to consider. Your pump may be causing/contributing to the pain. My son was a preemie and spent his first 5 weeks in the hospital. I exclusively pumped during that time, and then alternated nursing and pumping after he came home. It took me awhile of experimenting with flange size, pump speed/intensity, etc. to find the optimum setup. I found that rubbing a little lanolin on the inside of the flange before pumping really helped. All that to say, there’s no one perfect way to do this. It does get easier, and you are doing a great thing for him. Enjoy the snuggles…

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Joy Krupka says · 01.06.14

I know it’s been said, but the pain does go away. It takes a little longer the first time around, but I promise it will get better. It is really worth it to stick with breastfeeding…I also had tears during all 4 of my children’s intial latch. Praying for you!

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misadventuresofkellyandkelly says · 01.06.14

I was going to say the same about tongue tie. I had latching on pain for 3 months with my first and it ended up being a really resistant case of thrush.

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Ashley Bannister says · 01.06.14

I developed thrush (yeast infection) on my nipples which caused the toe curling, tears running down your cheeks, this isn’t worth it kind of pain! My lactation consultant told me to do 3 things – rub breast milk all over your nipples, use polysporin / Bacitracin (not neosporin) and Lotrimin AF. The combo of all 3 cleared it right up. Just make sure to wipe your breast before each feeding to remove any excess creams, most of it will be absorbed before the next feeding. If it is thrush and you want a little protection from the pain, I found a nipple shield really helped….and ice packs! Good luck! Breastfeeding is so hard but so worth it!

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Brittany says · 01.06.14

It took about 5 weeks for me to feel like I turned a corner on the nipple pain. One side took a little longer than that, but it will get better I promise. I used the nipple butter, but honestly, I found that coconut oil really healed things the best for me. I used lanolin in the shower when I was super sensitive and coconut oil to help things heal. And if you haven’t tried the soothies gel pads, you are in for a BIG treat if you can find some of those. Put them in the fridge.

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Katie Knight says · 01.06.14

you go girl!

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Kelly Walker says · 01.06.14

Oh, I remember that pain! It does get better after 6 weeks or so. Rubbing your own breast milk on your nipples is soothing as well (it also heals chapped skin or minor cuts/abrasions for anyone). Wear breast pads always and give yourself a break by pumping instead of nursing if the pain is too much. Stick it out, it is worth it!

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Holly S says · 01.06.14

Please make an appointment with a lactation specialist ASAP if you are having that kind of pain still!

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Hi, I'm Natalie. says · 01.06.14

It gets better, I promise. πŸ™

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Hi, I'm Natalie. says · 01.06.14

ETA: I had toe-curling pain for the better part of eight weeks with my first – my daughter had a great latch (said the LC), she was getting lots of milk, and she was a happy baby. By 12 weeks, it was easy/comfortable. With my second child, I had no discomfort… so there is hope for #2!

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Anita Finn says · 01.06.14

Praise Jesus the pain from latching on does subside!! I would be in tears some days from it so I understand exactly where you are coming from. Don’t do like me and forget to use the Nipple cream after showers…I did and ended up with cracks which adds to the pain!!!
I had my nursing area setup in my den. I actually tried nursing in other areas but this was the most comfortable and convenient spot so I was more relaxed and so were my girls.
Enjoy these sweet bonding moments, as I’m sure you have already heard a million times you’ll blink and he’ll be running around the house. My youngest is now 18 months old and I can’t believe 18 months have already gone so fast and my oldest is 4 1/2 so that really gets me!!

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Jill says · 01.06.14

You have plenty of encouragement from lovely ladies here–but the pain does end, and it does get easier, though it takes longer for some (I had pain for about 8 weeks before it really calmed down). I remember being so frustrated that this experience that was supposed to be so good for my baby (and me!) was so much harder and SO much more painful than anyone mentioned- but it does become so very worth it! So happy for you and excited to read all of your upcoming posts, especially as they begin to include your new mother role!!

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Ashley says · 01.06.14

The Earth Mama Angel Baby diaper rash cream is just as amazing. It works great in place of Neosporin and things too. Plus it smells way better than desitin. I still keep a jar and my kiddos are out of diapers.

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Emily Robinson says · 01.06.14

My fave nursing tracker is Baby Connect, an app on my iPhone. It records diapers (useful for for the first dr appointment), nursing time and duration (even graphs, if u want), health stats (like weight, height, head cir,), vitamin and meds dosing and times, and so much more!
I have 4 children (ages 4 yrs to 4 mo) and there is a file on my app for each child. As they get older and need Tylenol and Ibuprofen for teething, it’s helpful to keep track of times of med doses πŸ™‚
I love reading your blog, Kate! Thanks for sharing with us!

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Molly Lauren says · 01.06.14

You’re awesome.

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Susan Wright says · 01.07.14

Yes, honey, the nipple pain gets better. Even after 34 years, I still remember the pain and cracking skin of my nipples. I used lanolin back then. Glad you had someone looking out for your nipps~ lol

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Phyllis Umberger says · 01.07.14

I remember that long ago pain, and my son is 17 years old today!!! I agree with the other posts that recommend a consult with a lactation specialist, and make sure you don’t have a yeast infection! That was my trouble and this is really bizarre sounding, but cabbage leaves on my breasts helped soothe my pain tremendously. LOL, I was so desperate I didn’t CARE what it looked like… I was so tender and sore I couldn’t even bear for a soft t-shirt to touch me! The benefits do outweigh the discomfort though – hang in there! Praying for you!

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katesterkin says · 01.07.14

First off let me just say I love your blog!! Did you know that your own milk is actually a better healer for sore nipples? I am not trying to be annoying, but I am an RN on a mother/baby unit and we really encourage moms to use some of their own milk and rub it on their nipples. It’s a great natural remedy and it doesn’t camouflage your own scent, which makes it easier for baby to get a good latch. Sorry if you’ve already heard this a lot πŸ™‚

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M Claire says · 01.07.14

Hi Kate – I have a sketchy memory, but I clearly remember that it took just about one month for breastfeeding to become more comfortable (boy do I know what you mean by “toe-curling pain”. I went to a lactation consultant and I think that helped, but really (for me and my son, anyway), it just took some time. I can also tell you that with my other babies, it was complete breeze from the get-go, so look forward to that, too :). Enjoy the baby and good luck!

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Megan says · 01.07.14

Hang in there. It will get easier. My sons pediatrician office has a lactation specialist, maybe David’s does too and you could have her watch you nurse and give suggestions?

Random but regarding the grocery list…I have a 12 month old and don’t like giving up my time with him so I decided to grocery shop online last night for the first time and I picked them up after work via a “drive thru” and didn’t been have to get out of the car, which was nice cause my son was napping in the back. It was awesome!

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Rebecca Berry says · 01.07.14

Kate, I’ve often read your blog but this is my first time commenting. I wish I could call you after reading about your pain breastfeeding! Oh no. I won’t offer any specific remedies since so many people already have, but I do want to echo one thing – please get help as soon as you can! It shouldn’t be that way. I am amazed by the number of women who said they endured that pain for weeks and have complete respect that they could hold out so long. Truly, once the issue is identified and corrected the pain will start to subside almost immediately. Please don’t wait, and good luck! It can get better and is such a rewarding experience. (Also, the gel pads are awesome.)

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lyricsoprano82 says · 01.07.14

I agree completely! My son and I had some trouble a few weeks in (he was a champ and perfect eater at first). We spent about two days propped up in bed working on latch. Dr. Sears has some really good advice, my favorite being “flip the lip”. And while the intensive latch practice helped, we finally had to get his tongue tie clipped and all was right in the world. Might be worth checking with your pediatrician at his next well check to be sure everything in his mouth is as it should be. Keep up the amazing good work mama! I just hit 20 months of breastfeeding and I’m so happy I stuck with it. In fact, when I think about weaning in a few months, I find myself in tears. It’s such a special time.

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Ashlee says · 01.07.14

I had flashbacks to that tear inducing latch as I read that part of your post. If you are in that much pain mention it to your pediatrician or find a lactation consultant. I was not only going to throw in the towel, I was going to stomp on it and light it on fire! The lactation consultant saved breastfeeding for me. I hope you both settle in to breastfeeding. No one tells us how hard it really is going to be! Hang in there!

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Sheryl Watkins says · 01.07.14

It gets better , much much better – took me about 6 to 8 weeks. Key is a good super wide open mouth. I used to tickle the corner of the babies mouth and when they opened realllly wide you shove it in there ! Sounds silly but works and ends the soreness in a couple days- Also remember to air out the nips and let them dry before buttering them or you can trap wetness and bacteria and get an infection and believe me that’s no fun..

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Charity Gonzalez says · 01.07.14

Thanks for posting things about your new life as a mommy. My hubby and I are expecting our first in May and I would love to hear more about how you are coping with having a newborn. One question I have is where does David sleep right now? Did you guys do a bassinette/pack’n’play/or a co sleeper? Thanks and congrats David seems perfect!

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Stephanie says · 01.07.14

Awesome! As you get more into Divergent you will notice the difference between it and Hunger Games- especially after book 1. It does have the same dystopian feel, but definitely takes a different path.

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Megan Cornelius says · 01.07.14

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Megan Cornelius says · 01.07.14

Great post! When I nursed my daughter I, for some unknown reason, rarely nursed in the same spot very often. Now that I see your neatly displayed array of necessities, I know what I’m doing next time!

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kizi jogos says · 01.07.14

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leah mary says · 01.07.14

It takes about 6-8 weeks, like has been mentioned, but after that it is a piece of cake and so convenient. I nurse anywhere and everywhere now. I use my phone to log the nursing times on an app and do the ddrops at bedtime, so they are part of our nightly routine and I can just leave them in the nursery. Also, the nursing times will eventually shorten some so you will only be confined for about 15 mins every 2 1/2-3 hours! (At least that’s what I have found to be true.) Good job and congrats!

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Jessica says · 01.07.14

The pain does get better. I’m nursing my 3rd little one, Nathaniel, and I never would have thought they would be so different in the way they nursed! Nathaniel would be in the barracuda category. It hurt for the first 3 months on and off. He still hurts me sometimes. Alas, he just LOVES to eat and latches on with gusto!!

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Lauren Elizabeth says · 01.07.14

lurve. especially that you’re openly talking about your nips.

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Carrie says · 01.07.14

I’m due in February (also my first and also a boy) so I’ve loved following your pregnancy journey! Thank you for your honesty and humor for other moms-to-be! Praying for ya’ll!

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Shannon Benedict says · 01.07.14

‘Soothies’ by Lansinoh healed my poor nipples up pretty fast. ..best things ever for that horrible pain πŸ™‚ Your little guy is adorable :))

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Jenny says · 01.08.14

Good for you! Enjoy this wonderful experience & relish it as they grow so quickly!!! I so enjoy your blog & now enjoy the mommy posts too!!!!

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Sally HP says · 01.08.14

I love that chair-the orange color looks super fun! My book club started with divergent and read the trilogy…I couldn’t finish the third one :/

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astoldbykayla says · 01.08.14

Are you ever going to post about the nursery? In time, of course! Just sheer curiosity, because you’ve mentioned it before. πŸ™‚

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Mollie says · 01.08.14

Kate, this is my first comment, but I’ve enjoyed reading your blog for a long time now. I should have commented sooner because you’ve been a great encouragement to my mind and my hair. It was your comment on the nipple pain after latching that brought me to the comments finally, lol! Yes, the pain gets better and yes, your nipples will resume their normal look and function after breastfeeding – I struggled with really chapped/sore nipples when I was breastfeeding – ugh. Congrats on your new baby David! It’s so wonderful to be a mom!

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farmhouse mama says · 01.08.14

I haven’t read the other comments so maybe someone already suggested this. When my boys would latch on (I nursed all 4 of them) I would stick my thumb on their lower lip and pull it down creating a bigger latch. Hope this makes sense. I did it every time they would nurse and would have no pain at all. If I didn’t do it….. eeeeoooooouch! Good luck it gets so much easier. Enjoy your time together. It’s the best!

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Kenningtons says · 01.08.14

Girl, it does get better! I would tear up every latch because it was so painful. I finally bought some nipple guards and used them to heal (maybe a week). Those things saved me! Congratulations!! Your baby is dreamy.

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Stephanie @ Whole Health Dork says · 01.11.14

Thanks for sharing!

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Raspberry Creek Fabrics says · 01.13.14

I too have not read through all the other comments, but nursing was so painful for me, for such a long time I started to see a lactation consultant. A super deep latch was what helped my nipples heal and get over the pain of nursing. My lactation consultant would have me squeeze my breast so it was more flat and mimicked the shape of my babies mouth. Our mouths are more flat than round and so our breast fits better in a nursing latch when it is more flat than round. After I would flatten my breast she had me put my other hand behind my babies head and shove, yes shove, his open mouth on. It felt like I was being mean and choking him with my engorged breast, but that is what it took for me to get the deep latch that helped my nipples heal. After a few weeks of that I was all healed up and latching that way was just normal. IT WILL BE EASIER!!

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Trudy Stripling says · 01.13.14

Nail-clipping has always been the most terrifying thing to me! A good tip I learned to love: scrape his nails through some powder (talcum, baby, whatever you prefer). It brightens the tips and makes it incredibly easy for you to see what part to cut! If you don’t like the thought of possibly airborne powder, I’m sure a thick layer of baby lotion would also do the trick!

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Jessica Broughman says · 01.14.14

I love your blog! I check your blog at least once a week to see what new posts you have! I wish there was a way to have each new post alerted on my phone or something πŸ™‚ I know you said that you were not going to make your blog a “total mom blog” after David was born, but I am glad to see the posts, especially seeing what you are finding works/doesn’t work as a new mom. I am keeping these tips in mind for when I become a first time mom. … And I think you hilarious and even more funny now that you have had David. πŸ™‚ thanks for your blog, it really brightens my day!

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Mrs. Z says · 01.17.14

My daughter uses ‘nipple shields’ that are like really light-weight baby bottle nipples. They have solved all her pain issues and put an end to her cringes when her baby latches on!

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runtspickins says · 02.05.14

Have you considered/tried using a nipple shield? I had my little boy four weeks ago and have used a nipple shield since day one. Peanut was having trouble with latching on so the lactation consultant gave me a shield to try. I love it. It’s painless AND I don’t have to worry about getting dry and/or cracked nipples. Just a suggestion from one new mommy to another. =]

Runt
http://www.runtspickins.wordpress.com
If responding, please email [email protected]

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xo says · 02.17.14

Where did you get that adorable print?

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Gri Gulli says · 03.17.14

Hello from Frankfurt, Germany πŸ™‚
I really enjoy your blog! I noticed your ipad cover and I think it is really cute. If you dont mind me asking, where did you find it?
Have a nice day πŸ™‚

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