Feeding Our Babies

With world breastfeeding week coming to a close today I figured it would be a good day to post about this very topic, breastfeeding or more importantly just feeding our babies!

I have 6 children but have only exclusively breastfed 2. I attempted with 2 others but failed miserably at 2 weeks with both of them. Both times ending with mastitis and me switching to formula.

OH NO DID I SAY FORMULA?

Yep. 4 of my babies have had formula and guess what? They are smart, happy and extremely healthy. All 6 of my kids are in fact extremely smart, happy and healthy! I am okay with this, and don't love some babies more than others, or think some will do better in life than the others...

I am really tired of all the formula feeding vs breastfeeding fights. I am also really tired of the "OMG you are breastfeeding in public? COVER UP!" Comments too. How rude can you be?

I would just like to say on the 9th of this month Justin and I will have hit 11 months. He does eat solids now but that doesn't stop him from breastfeeding every 3-4 hours still. Yep, you read that right. In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner PLUS snacks during the day... He nurses every 3-4 hours. It's okay, I feel the e-hugs.

I don't mind it, I actually am very proud of where we are at and am cherishing this while I can. Jackson quit himself at 14.5 months and although we hit a year and I'm so very proud of that, I wanted to hit 2 years. So, while I may have some experience under my belt I still however am nervous out in public. Even more so now because he rips the blanket off, so I can't cover up. I do wear layers even in the 80+ degree weather. No one has ever, or can ever see anything at all and Not because I'm worried about what Tom, Dick or Harry has to say but because I'm just a shy person.

It really breaks my heart to see comments I do all over the internet regarding breastfeeding and moms should "cover up when out in public!" What comments? Hmmm..

"I don't want to see that cover up"

"Go sit in the bathroom to breastfeed!"

"I didn't come out in public to see your boobs"

"Breastfeeding is bonding, no need to shove it in anyone's face. Do it in private"

First of all, while in the beginning breastfeeding is huge for bonding yes, and yes it still very much is throughout - but to be very blunt; it's feeding a baby. Also, I know I don't breastfeed in public to shove it in anyone's face, I do it because my baby is hungry and will NOT take a bottle or a sippy cup yet.

How can I put it simply? Breastfeeding has nothing to do with YOU. It's about that person who is breastfeeding's child needing to be fed, and possibly comforted. Whatever the reason may be, a breastfeeding mother and child isn't any harm to you or anyone else so why does it matter? I don't think I will ever know the answer to that.

I do know that most comments I read, or hear are from other women. Any comments from men are generally sexual, which I won't even touch on - but other women? That is very, truly sad. 

I understand not everyone wants to breastfeed, or if they want to but can't.. I get that, I really do. But there is no need for anyone to bash breastfeeding or formula feeding either for that matter. As long as a baby is well taken care of, loved, and healthy why does it matter? 

I know if I was a young mom with zero support, and just starting out with my family if I heard some of these comments it would most definitely interfere with my breastfeeding relationship with my children, especially out in public. Not everyone has support, and encouragement and not everyone can just brush off the comments or deal with them the same way. If someone were to say these things to me today, I would most definately tell them what I thought but not everyone is like that. It's a real shame.

My children know breasts are for feeding babies. They did before I breastfed my youngest two. Sure as they get older they will realize they can and do often get used for other things, but there general purpose is breastfeeding. I used to think back when I was without children I wouldn't ever breastfeed in public or want to see it because "OH MY GOSH WHAT IF MY CHILD or ANOTHER SEES THAT?" Now, I say - oh well, explain that's what breasts are for and move on...

Isn't that simple? I think so. Most kids are curious and would ask questions, it would be a great time to educate them properly about breasts.

I decided today was a great day to write this post because of comments I saw to this photo of Olivia Wilde and her gorgeous baby boy, Otis. While I know a lot of people are all "OMG HER BABY IS NAKED IN A DINER!" - note its a photo shoot, and shes really not out to a diner with a naked baby, and focus on the true beauty of the photo.

Photo credit: Glamour magazine - glamour.com

Not everyone has to agree, and not everyone has to "feel" one way or another about breastfeeding or formula feeding.. But, it goes both ways. Formula Feeding and Breastfeeding mothers absolutely hate being labeled, and hate being made to feel bad about their choice. THEIR choice - At the end of the day, feel how you want to feel, own it, but also remember: Feeding ones baby isn't about you, and your comfort it's about the baby and the babies comfort. Babies have to eat, from breast or bottle and regardless of how our babies are fed... They are fed. That is truly what matters. So ladies, feed those babies and be proud - you are doing the absolute best you can for that beautiful baby of yours!

Our babies need to eat. Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding it doesn't matter. Happy bellies, and healthy babies is all that matters!

Breastfeeding & Formula Feeding: Something's Gotta Give

A few days ago I was taking photos for a product review I was doing. Completely clothed, fully covered but breastfeeding. I decided to share it and another on Instagram because I was completely proud of it. I in turn lost 2 followers within 3 minutes of posting it; and not before they left some "kind" words for me. No biggie, I'm a big girl I can take it.

 See anything wrong with this photo? Nope. Neither do I.

Some people do, and that's fine. I understand we live in a world where not everyone agrees with everything others do and I get that. I respect that. I however do not agree with leaving nasty comments or saying mean things when it's about something you don't agree with. This happens A LOT in the world of blogging and even more so in the world of Mom. Something's gotta give.

I don't post breastfeeding photos often. When I do, Generally I get nothing but praise for having 6 kids and breastfeeding. I just don't feel comfortable posting them because the odd time I do get negative comments - I can shrug them off but I worry about others. Others who may be struggling or needing a little extra support and encouragement. I worry about them seeing such comments.

I got pregnant with Jordan at 17. Became his mom at 18. I had zero support let alone ANY support for breastfeeding so I switched after 2 weeks of breastfeeding to formula and that's okay. But it would have been nice to have some support and encouragement.

Did you notice how I phrased that? I "switched after 2 weeks" ? Not failed, switched...

That's because you never fail when you have to switch to formula. You never fail when you chose just go with formula from the get go either. It isn't failing, it's simply feeding your baby. Period. No mother is any better by choosing to breastfeed or formula feed. No mother is better because she CAN breastfeed while one CAN'T (because yes, there are some moms who cannot) but there are also some who simply choose not to - that's okay. Why? Because as long as baby is being fed, who cares?

That's all that matters.

So if I do post those few breastfeeding photos and I get a discouraging comment I do get disheartened because what if a young mom with no support who is struggling with breastfeeding were to see and notice a negative nasty comment? What good do those comments do for her? Even if you don't agree with breastfeeding, or think it's for you - it may be for someone else, so even if you think leaving your opinion is your right (which sure it may be) just think about the consequences first and who it may impact.

I didn't try breastfeeding babies #2 or 3. But did try again with 4. I had lots of help and support but again at two weeks switched - I had gotten mastitis and just couldn't fight on.

So when pregnant with #5 and armed with a team of support both at home and online I knew I could do it! I did! We successfully strictly breastfed for 14.5 months. When he weaned himself. I was and still am beyond proud - but had I had no support, or read comments I see now all over the place I never would have done it. When baby #6 was coming I knew I was going to no matter what because not only did I still have the support but I had the knowledge and knew I could do it and if I ever doubted that I knew I had support, and people to turn to if needed.

What about those that don't have support? Don't have anyone to ask questions? Sure they can switch to formula and that's fine, but what about that one mom who has her heart set on breastfeeding but is having a bit of trouble and would like to reach to others with experience for support before making the switch?

What about that mom who couldn't breastfeed? Or the one who chose formula because it is what's best for their family? Because I've seen a lot of bad mouthing that too.

Just because a mom may not be able to breastfeed, or chooses not to doesn't mean they are any less of a mother. It just means they chose what is best for them, their baby and their family. This isn't something to warrant attacks, this is something everyone needs to realize -  even if you disagree, it's right for her. Not every person who chooses formula, or needs to use it needs educating on why "breast is best" either. Most mothers know this, and most mothers give this a lot of thought. I'm sure there are lots who haven't and aren't too knowledgeable on the subject but there are ways to go about giving information.

So, I'm here to tell you something's gotta give. With Facebook deleting breastfeeding photos - Instagram too... And all the reports "a mom in such and such a place got asked to cover up or move to the bathroom" I think it's time we stop, take a moment to realize - it's no ones business how any child is fed, as long as it's fed.  (I won't even touch on the whole Breastfeeding in public issues right now that have been going on because that's a whole other blog topic).

But, Making rude nasty comments - only hurts those innocent moms who are trying so hard to do what they feel is best for their child and their situation and it's no ones job, or right to bring her down. NO ONE. It may also hurt the poor mom you are leaving the messages for on a level you may never imagine. How about lifting up those who breastfeed and formula feed? How about giving some praise, because they are trying! They just brought a brand new life into this world, the last thing they should be doing is dealing with anyone else's negativity. They are doing what is right for them and their beautiful babies and don't need to be told their decision is wrong, gross or indecent. They don't need to be told any of it.

Educating is one thing, attacking and judging are another. Moms need to stick together, and fight the fight and leave the mom wars behind.

See a young girl needing advice or educating on breastfeeding or formula feeding? Offer up some advice or tell her if she has any questions to ask. Be supportive whatever the choices may be. Don't attack or assume. There's always a story, and a reason why people are doing what they are doing. Simply not knowing or even just choosing to do what's right for them. Let them be the judge, how about being an ear or a shoulder.

Just something to think about.

SleepBelt: Review & Giveaway!

 "A hands free skin-to-skin support system, SleepBelt allows baby to sleep soundly on mom or dad’s chest while giving parents their hands back to read, use a tablet, or their smart phone; it literally belts your sleeping baby to you!  With a new baby, breaks are important... Make the most of them."

There are very few products I believe a new parent "must have" but this is one of the few - SleepBelt. Justin is a little bit bigger than the suggested size and age for the SleepBelt which is 0-4 months, and up to 15lbs.. But when I saw it, I knew I had to try it. He is one of those babies who always need to be held, and snuggled. I absolutely love it, but sometimes when having five other children I need a moment or two with hands free - even when holding the baby! So, this was perfect for me!

I got in touch with Hayley the wonderful woman behind SleepBelt and even though I got her name wrong at first, she was super sweet and kind. She agreed to let me try the product, answered any questions I had and was even happy to allow me to do the very giveaway at the end of this review. She is most definitely a pleasure to work with!

My SleepBelt arrived very quickly as they are located in Toronto. Locally owned and operated? Bonus! We all know I love supporting Canadian made products! I was so excited I couldn't wait to try it out.

Justin is teething so his level of  "OMG I NEED MOMMY NOW!"  has gone up a few notches and during the day working Customer Care; answering e-mails I need my hands to be able to answer when an e-mail reaches my inbox. I hate putting him down so it's been quite a challenge to do a lot of my work with him on my lap, but I do it... Now? It's just gotten much smoother.

The SleepBelt is NOT intended to take the place of Mommy or Daddy's loving arms, it's simply here to help. We don't use it all the time but the times we have its been a huge success. Justin loved it, didn't try to escape and wasn't too squirmy. He fell asleep quite fast, I was able to kiss his little head and talk to him while he drifted to sleep. He has been in it many times over the last few days and is quite content. We were even able to breastfeed in it too, and it was extremely comfortable and was refreshing for me to be able to reach over and grab my cup of water while he was still nursing and I didn't disrupt him or have him unlatch while doing it, this was a huge plus for me.

Here Justin fell fast asleep, and I was able to answer e-mails and even write notes out while he slept soundly, in place safely on my chest.

 

Look who just finished nursing safely and comfortably and fell fast asleep in the SleepBelt!

A huge factor to me when testing out products is making sure they are safe for babies and children. They must, must, must be safe. The SleepBelt isn't a carrier, or a wrap that is meant for Babywearing. It is simply NOT. The SleepBelt is meant for when baby wants cuddles, and/or to sleep on mom or dad's chest and they are in a seated position. Like any product you use with caution, but you do not use this as a carrier. Thankfully, the SleepBelt comes with a warning card of it's own that does state this.

 

 A Caution Card: I think every product needs to come with one of these.  

How is the Sleep Belt Different from anything else?

• The SleepBelt has no shoulder straps, no buckles and stretches for simple on/off and easy transfer of a sleeping tot to a bassinet, bed or crib.
• The SleepBelt can be adjusted to become tighter or looser to ensure baby stays snuggled in comfortably and naturally.
• The SleepBelt is simple, quick, easy to use and isn't hard on wearer's back or baby.

 The SleepBelt comes in three sizes. Petite (22"-34"), Regular (30"-40") and Long (38"-50") it also comes in three colours: Aqua Blue, Basic Black and Hot Pink. I got the regular belt, which was perfect for Justin's size and my size - it's important to take note of the measurements and get the correct size for you and baby when purchasing. SleepBelt retails for $59.99 and can be purchased directly from their website or a local retailer near you.

I am very impressed. I wish I had found this when Justin was first born! He was born at 36 weeks, 4 days - which is early. I held him a lot, and did skin to skin a lot. It would have really been helpful. I'm just lucky I found it now because even though he's a bit bigger it's working extremely well for us. All the nights I spent struggling to hold Justin and nurse him while reading books with the 4 other little ones while Jackson pulled at me and was hanging off me, trying to answer work e-mails or help another child with their homework beside me on the couch - won't be as hard to manage now, and I won't fear him falling or being nudged by an older child!

This product would also be a huge help to parents, or grandparents who have issues with arthritis or stiff hands/arms. They can safely hold babies and snuggle with them with no fear of them falling/dropping, or hurting themselves after a little while. Too tired in the middle of the night during a nursing session? Worried you may fall asleep in the rocking chair? It's just a little added piece of mind! It's also great for baby showers, and hospital gifts for a new mom!

The SleepBelt is also a PTPA award winner, they recently were given the seal! A huge Congratulations to them! You can take a look at it here on the PTPA website, and if you've given the SleepBelt a try feel free to leave a review of it there as well!...

If you have a moment, SleepBelt is up for a Mompreneur Award of Excellence! If you think they deserve to be in the top spot, which I do - please go give them a quick vote: HERE!

Now - THE GIVEAWAY! Hayley so kindly donated 1 SleepBelt ($59.99 value!) to a Six Time Mommy reader. Open to US and Canada. You will be able to pick your color and size, and they will ship it right to you! Amazing right? TOLD YA!



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was given this product complimentary to review. However all opinions and views expressed are mine and 100% true. 

 Giveaway open to US and CANADIAN residents. You will recieve 1 (one) SleepBelt in color and size of your choice. Prize will be mailed directly from SleepBelt in Canada. You have 24 hours from prize announcement  to claim your prize before a new winner will be chosen instead. Giveaway is open from February 2-February 9 at 11:59p, winner will be chosen and posted/emailed the afternoon of February 10th . Good luck!