I'm sure some are asking yourself, how and why did I let him nurse so long?! To be honest it was just a natural progression. When he turned 1, it never felt right to wean him. I always wondered how we as a society got that cut off. It's not like they simply "grow up" the moment they turn a year old and become independent. The World Health Organization actually recommends breastfeeding till at least 2 years and beyond and I knew the many benefits just didn't go away after a certain amount of time. I felt comfortable in my decision but of course had some backlash here and there. Thankfully there is a very supportive breastfeeding community in the Buffalo area. If you are interested in knowing the benefits of extended breastfeeding or nursing till natural term look here and here. There are also a lot of great charts out there with the benefits listed!
I got pregnant with Felix when Noah was 16 months and thought for sure that would have made him wean (many moms notice a significant drop in their supply) but being my high needs little boy, he still needed that sense of security and it was awesome to be able to give him what little milk I had when he was sick. I tried a few times during the later half of my pregnancy to wean him because I wasn't sure if I could handle nursing 2 babes but it was too traumatic for him. For those who have spirited little ones, you know what I mean! It was around this time that I decided I'd try to let him self wean so we kept going but I started putting some limits on him and he started falling asleep on his own instead of at the breast. And after all his teeth came in, he even started sleeping through the night. After Fe was born, of course he was in heaven because he had all this milk again (haha) and we began our tandem nursing journey. Again I found myself needing to put some limits on him otherwise he would have nursed every time Felix and that would have just drove me crazy :p Though it was a little stressful, it helped the boys bond quicker. They would hold hands or brush each other's cheek. It really was the sweetest thing. It also did wonders when Noah was in super tantrum mode unable to handle his big feelings. As time went on and we got closer to three years he was only nursing 2-3 times a day usually at nap, bedtime and occasionally when he woke up. He started dropping naps around 3.5 years and falling asleep with Daddy on the couch. He would only ask to nurse every couple of days or so. He was becoming independent all on his own! He didn't need me to help him fall asleep anymore. He was able, he was ready to make this change. He wanted hugs now instead of milk when he was upset. Although I'm a little sad to see this journey end, I'm extremely proud!! And I think I'm allowed to be. 45 months is a freaking long time! Whatever breastfeeding goals you have met, be proud of it! Whether you nursed your baby a week, a few months or years. Be proud of your journey. <3
This is a picture I took a few months at my parent's house. I remember him being very upset about something and needing some chill time with mommy. He was crying, kicking and asked if he could have milk. Instant peace and calmness. Moments like this made our journey worth everything and show just how little he still is.
