I recently started back to work which means I get to experience the JOY of pumping! I say joy lightly. I hate my breast pump. It makes me feel defeated and useless. I’ve tried everything to increase my supply with my pump from emergency lactation cookies/brownies, power pumping, etc. I miss the days when I wasn’t at work and I could spend all day nursing Myla, I was lucky enough to have three months off to spend with her, which was mostly spent nursing. Returning to work has been a challenge, especially with having to pump. I can’t seem to keep up with the demands of my daughter. She drinks 3, 6oz bottles a day at daycare and only one of those is breastmilk and I’m having to supplement the other two with formula. It sucks! As a parent, all you want to do is be able to provide for your child and when you feel like your failing, it’s the worst feeling ever. I’m lucky I am able to breastfeed because it’s always been a goal of mine, but pumping is not fun for me! What matters the most is that I am trying my best. So remember, when you feel like you’re failing, know that you are doing the best for your child and all you can do is try. So to the mamas who have to pump, be brave! If you have to supplement, aren’t able to nurse, or choose not to nurse, remember, fed is best! Happy World Breast Feeding week, mamas!