Friday, March 20, 2009

The Pump Returns...


My return to work date is just 6 weeks away! I am so glad to have had this time with my baby, but am looking forward to going back to a job that I love. There are so many things I thought I'd do with this time. Most of them never got done. The reality of caring for a newborn (and a new mom) all day is not quite like my romantic fantasy. Still, I feel absolutely bonded to my son and have treasured this special time at home with him. MM and I will be sharing childcare starting in May. We'll both be working a reduced schedule so we can be with Jonas most of the time. I'm happy to have a nanny for the other 15 or so hours we'll need to close the gap.

Breastfeeding still isn't as easy and painless as I had hoped it would be, but I'm committed to sticking with it. Yes, it is getting better, still not great though. Now I'm trying to figure out the best way to make sure I can continue to breastfeed him when I go back to work. My job is very breast-feeding friendly, so I'll get "pump breaks" and can go see him at the nanny's on my lunch break the days I'm there a full day. I'm just not sure how much/if I need to be pumping now so I am sure to have enough as he grows. Honestly, I still hate the thing. All the little parts, the noise, the ridiculous feeling of being hooked up to a milking machine...but I'll do it if I need to. If you have successfully managed this transition I'd love to hear from you. It's a little daunting.

3 comments:

Nate, Maurine, Hannah, and Monroe said...

love the updates! I'm at work in the library pumping right now- typing one handed- will write more later.

jonmatthew said...

I haven't had to breast pump as much as working mothers but I did rent one the first month because of a bad breast infection, my first. I was then blessed by a friend who has loaned me long-term her own hospital grade breast pump. I have actually been very thankful for it and hasn't bothered me much at all. Yes, there are all those parts to put together and clean. My problem is that it helps me keep from getting to engorge. It is better now but I am actually one of those gals who over produces. I have even been considering donating milk! I hope you get in a good routine and that breastfeeding will keep getting better and better for the both of you! Miriam

jonmatthew said...

Oops...that is so embarrassing. I am glad I signed b/c it is NOT Jon who is writing, somehow I was still logged in on his account!!