I have really been lacking in my writing here. As some of you know, I had a little girl in June. She is quite the handful & I'm still learning how to take care of this high needs little girl on a daily basis. But even so, I've only written twice since May.
But today, I realized that I need a place to use my writing as an outlet - a place for my brain to go when I just need to let my feelings out or when I'd like to share about a difficult part of my life. Today's topic you ask? Breastfeeding...dairy-free.
I have never really had to give anything up. With the exception of certain obvious, but necessary obligations while pregnant. But, alas, having a baby changes more than you could ever think possible. Including (apparently) my diet. I discovered a few weeks ago that broccoli was not an option. Her tummy gets very upset whenever I eat it. & frankly - I don't know if I've been trying to deny it, or just trying to delay it, but - milk does the same thing.
As a person who has at least a bowl of cereal a day & loves ice cream, this fact has truly shaken me. It sounds silly, maybe, but having to eliminate the normal dairy is tough. I have had to go on the search for non-dairy milk (coconut & almond) along with ice cream. The substitutes are okay, but they aren't the real thing. I just don't find these foods enjoyable anymore. :(
But honestly, I've given up so much for this little girl. There's nothing I wouldn't do for her. To be dairy free for her is a small price to pay to make sure she continues to get the benefits of breastmilk for at least the first year of her life. But, I will probably breastfeed as long as she wants to.
When it comes down to it, my little girl & her health is more important than milk. But, thus begins a new journey...
