Some of you may remember when I wrote this post about breastfeeding. I wrote about my different experiences with exclusively pumping with Sophia, transitioning fully to formula and exclusively breastfeeding Saidey. I shared that I was still nursing Saidey at least 1-2 times a day, at age 2. Well, today I share that Saidey hasn't nursed in about two weeks. I was surprisingly sad about this new development. I offer "milk" and the last time I asked, she said "all done." My heart about split into two. But as time has gone on and I haven't offered and she hasn't asked- I realized how wonderful a process this has been. When Saidey turned one, I said that it didn't make a difference- that she was still my baby and that one day didn't matter or mean that all of a sudden she should be cut off from nursing. My goal turned to start the weaning process when she turned 2. And then she turned 2. And she was still nursing at least once a day. Around two months ago, though, she started to nurse for less time each time until gradually, she stopped altogether.
It was such a natural, gentle way of weaning. It was led by her and all I did was follow her cues and needs. I knew that when SHE stopped asking, she had completely outgrown the need- both nutritionally and emotionally. It was such a natural process that didn't cause either of us distress in trying to force her to be done before she was ready.
There were times when I struggled with my decision to nurse a toddler. Questions by family as well as society's stereotypical and misguided thoughts about nursing a toddler caused me to second guess myself a few times. It is not very common to hear or see someone nursing a two year old so I felt in a way I had to hide it. I definitely only shared it with people close to me and went by a "don't ask, don't tell" policy. However, in the breastfeeding group I have been involved in, I found out that actually, it is a lot less uncommon than we all may think. Saidey also didn't consistently sleep through the night until around 18-20 months and she would nurse back to sleep. Many have their opinions about a toddler still waking up at night as well as the need to nurse back to sleep. But I wouldn't have done it any other way- it saved for a lot of sleepless nights and stress and feeling guilty for letting her cry in her crib. Here's a good read about babies who still wake at night. It really encouraged me on the nights Saidey would wake up sometimes 2 or 3 times a night.
What to do when a crying toddler wakes at 3AM? Toss em in your bed so everyone can get a good nights sleep was our answer lots of nights.
So, for those of you who have little ones about to turn 1 or even 2, and are worried that he/she still uses a bottle or nurses, don't stress yourself out too much with thinking you have to wean the exact day they turn one. Do what your gut tells you. Do what feels right for you and your little one. Bottom line. It was the best thing I ever did for myself and for Saidey. Nursing provided countless moments of togetherness that I am absolutely positive we would not have had if I hadn't continued to nurse past age 1. I will always remember and cherish those moments for the rest of my life.
We are excited for no plans this weekend. Maybe doing the Farmer's Market or Indianola Balloon Festival. But hopefully it's pretty low key and relaxing. I can't wait!!
Happy Friday all and have a FABULOUS weekend! See you back here on Monday!!
My couch buddy for the night :)