Sunday, October 18, 2009

Am I 13?

Why do I care so much what people think about me? At times I feel like I am driven to do certain things because of what other people will think about me because of it. I know it's so wrong to feel this way, but it's a struggle sometimes.
I had a really hard time nursing Amalea and stopped at about 4 weeks. With Maya I have had a bit of an easier time, but it has still been really hard. I won't go into any details, but it's been 9 weeks and at times I just break down and cry because its so challenging. And yet...I care too much what others will think if I give her formula that I continue to struggle through it.
There are other reasons I really want to keep nursing - its the best thing for her, it saves us money, its convenient - but in the end I know one of the biggest things holding me back is that I don't want other people to think less of me because I give my daughter formula.
This is just a moment of total honesty...I don't want to care. I want to be confident enough in my decisions for myself and my family that I don't need the approval of others...but it is so hard.

3 comments:

Jamie Lapeyrolerie said...

I know it is hard not to care what people think, but you are no less of a mom if you can't!

I'm the result of formula and ain't nothing wrong with me! :)

Much love!!!

Mallory said...

I love you, Robin. Thank you for your vulnerability! I completely understand as I have struggled with similar feelings on this issue...I have decided that for me, it all boils down to giving the baby what she needs. If you need to use formula so that she gets enough, then you be proud that you are the kind of mom who will do what it takes to care for her baby! That is the kind of mom you are! The best kind of mom. I sure look up to you. Most of all because you keep it real.

Hope your birthday was awesome. I have a little something for you that I meant to drop off yesterday. Time slipped away from me...so I'll get it to you soon!

The Webbers said...

I struggle a lot, too, with making parenting decisions that are for MY family, but I am so concerned about what other moms think.