30 beautiful months

When I was pregnant my goal was to nurse my child for 6 months.

When we finally got the hang of it and breastfeeding became something I loved, I decided on 12 months.

Before I knew it, one year was just around the corner. I had done my research and was exposed to more than the 6 months of nursing average. I wanted to allow Ariana to wean herself whether that day would come in 3 months or 3 more years.

That day has come and it's bittersweet to say the least. She has been going longer and longer between nursing sessions with 1-2 weeks being the norm. The last time she asked to nurse was 4 weeks ago. She woke up crying in the middle of the night so I pulled her into my lap and whispered soothing words to her while I smoothed her hair back. She snuggled herself down so I lifted my shirt for her, not expecting her to actually nurse. But nurse she did, even if it was only for a few minutes! She smiled after she popped off and dozed off with her head on my bare chest. I want to freeze those images in my mind and hold onto them forever. Thirty months is how long we made it and I wouldn't trade one second of it for the world! I'm sad she isn't old enough to remember this journey long term but I know she and I will both be reaping the benefits for many years to come!

Thank you, my girl, for every moment of pain, wincing, tears, delight, dribbling smiles, milk comas, snuggling, pride, nipping, leaking, and for making me fall in love with you all over again every time you found comfort and nourishment at my breasts.