August is the month of National Breastfeeding and we are in the midst of World Breastfeeding week {August 1-7}. This week we are sharing breastfeeding stories, encouragement, battles, and ways to make it a little easier.

*** Thank you to all of our breastfeeding models for participating in this series promoting World Breastfeeding Week and National Breastfeeding Month. We appreciate your willingness to support this series. ***

Breastfeeding was not a decision for me, it was a given. That being said, I had a REALLY tough time with my first son. Between undiagnosed food allergies, working out of the house full time, and a major lack of knowledge, it just didn’t seem to work. I started supplementing formula way too early, and was told to “stop” by the time he was 6 months. And it made me sad, but it was the right choice for us at the time.

With my second babe, I was DETERMINED to nurse for a year. And I did! It was a full time job, to nurse on demand, for 15 months – definitely one of my most difficult, and important accomplishments! I am thankful that I had the support of my husband, family, and a a flexible job – plus a strong will that I would NOT give up. I always try to encourage new momma’s – and let them know that it’s super hard, but you can do it…just keep going! During the hard moments, I would always tell myself, that if I could just stick it out for one more week, I’d let myself stop. But, the hard moments pass and the next day would inevitably be easier, and I was able to just keep going!

How long were you ABLE to breastfeed versus how long you WANTED to breastfeed?