On Breastfeeding

I got an email today and the subject read "How do you feel about breastfeeding?" Well, since you ask, I will tell. :)

I love breastfeeding. I would absolutely, 100% encourage any expecting mom to give breastfeeding a try, unless, of course, there is some medical reason that it's contraindicated. In my opinion, breastfeeding is something that needs to be encouraged more in our society. For me, breastfeeding did not come as easily as I expected it to. In fact, I pretty much hated it at first, but I was determined to make it work. It's natural, so it should come naturally, right? Do not be fooled, sometimes it takes work. After a couple weeks, we got all the kinks worked out and my baby is now a fantastic nurser! I am so glad that we stuck it out. It is so easy now, especially in the middle of the night. We wake up, she eats, and goes right back to sleep-no screaming while someone fixes formula. It also way cheaper...even if you factor in my love of Mommy Necklaces (fantastic necklaces designed to keep little fingers occupied during nursing sessions, but they're for anyone, not just mommas...check them out www.mommynecklaces.com). Nursing in public is not something I am personally afraid to do, but I know it often draws a variety of opinions. Feel free to share yours.

Thankful

I am a mother. I am also an ER nurse. Since I have become a parent, my perspective on a lot of things has changed, especially at work. I work at a community hospital in my hometown, not a major healthcare system or trauma center. We definitely see our share of sadness, but most days things aren't bad. Taking care of sick children is different for me now that I have a child of my own. Fortunately, most of the kids that we see in the ER have minor injuries or illness. However, when we have one that has a more serious diagnosis, it is much harder. Last night was one of those nights. My night started with having to put IVs in two kids under the age of 3. I don't think my IV starting skills are all that great especially on children since it's not something we do often, but I got both IVs on the first stick (yay for the ego boost!). Both of those kids were fine and were discharged after some medicine and fluids. Then, things got a little harder. We cared for a teen with an unexpected, tough diagnosis. I can't imagine what her parents were feeling. I thank God for my beautiful, healthy baby girl every single day. Nights like last night make me do a little more talking to God and a lot more snuggling on my little lady. A night in the ER can make you count your blessings and remind you to worry less about the unimportant things.

I love this kid!

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Trying it out...

So, I've decided to give blogging a try. We'll see if I can keep it up. :)