The Marathon

I am not really what I would call a "runner" but I do a enjoy a good jog. I have even have run some 5K races in my time and even once did a half marathon.  So I am familiar with the concept that the last few miles at the hardest. I have found the same to be true with nursing. Long before Leia was conceived, I made a goal that with my next child I would nurse until at least 1 year. I also told myself supplementing would not be the end of the world since it would lessen stress and ultimately enable to enjoy nursing more (still working on that one after 1.5 months).  And though it is not easy having to venture down the road of pumping, we are so close. As in 22 days close.  And just like running, I am struggling to stay motivated. Not with the nursing. I am good with that but the PUMPING.  I am over it! Oh sure, we were good friends for a while but I have been hooked to my pump a minimum of four times a day on most work days and to be honest she (the pump) is not all the that interesting anymore. She has nothing new to say just the same old, same old. ;o) So this week I made a choice to cut back on one pump per day and opt instead to hit the gym. So far so good and not really getting less milk yet.  And doing something for me and my body has given a much needed mood boost. I have already been slacking on my nighttime pump because let's be honest, hooking yourself up to machine doesn't really set the mood for sleep.
So has the world ended? Nope. Does L suddenly reject me? Nope. Are we nursing exclusively on days away from work? You bet. So just like running, the end miles are tough but baby, once you see that finish line you pick it up right? No one slows down before the finish like...they take a deep breath and keep trucking. 
That is what this mama is going to do. Don't get me wrong, I am not going back to more pumps. Can't do it. However, I am going to focus of eating well, drinking more water, exercising and taking care of me. I really have no set plan on weaning or really stopping pumping altogether. To be honest I haven't really thought much past the one year mark.

For now, I am staying focused on the finish line.