Millennials are shifting to stunning locations to start out their households

It has been a blessing to be able to breastfeed my child. I am not naive about the fact that not everyone can or will walk this path, but for me I am proud that I can. It was an amazing way to connect.

I knew it was going to be a commitment, a real commitment. I still watch my caffeine consumption and don’t feel like I can enjoy this glass of wine all the time. But it was hard to imagine the true dedication it would take before I was in it.

Even more than pregnancy, breastfeeding is a full-time job. And this job comes with a demanding schedule. It’s one of the things that surprised me the most about breastfeeding.

Because nobody prepared me for how I would live my life in 3-hour steps.

My days and nights are on a three-hour marmot-day-like cycle. Somehow days turn into nights and days again, almost without my noticing. With a child who breastfeeds 8 to 10 times a day, life feels a little messy right now.

Leaving the house alone is a real chore. One that is almost too daunting. But in order not to go crazy, I’ve learned to be smart on my escapes into the world: Preparation is key.

I plan my errands in a breastfeeding friendly place.

When I have a lot to do and have to be out of the house for a long time, I plan my center point so that I know that I can breastfeed without any problems. The car is a great backup in a pinch, but definitely not ideal. Buy Buy Baby with her beautiful nursing and changing room is my focus. (It’s also next to my favorite grocery store, which is a bonus.)

So my day often goes like this:

Feed my baby at home. Until I breastfeed my son, burp and change the diaper and then hold him upright for 10 to 15 minutes (reflux mums, you know what I’m talking about) an hour has passed by in a flash. Then I grab my bag, load him into his car seat, and I’m on my way. I run to the pharmacy, get myself a cup of coffee and do an extra errand, like washing my car. Then it just happens that my little one eats again! I go to Buy Buy Baby, feed and change my little guy, then browse the store. Because while I’m here, why not ?! I’ve found that I usually need (at least) one thing there. Then I go to the grocery store. With this easy-care center, I can extend my excursion by at least an hour.

The same rules apply to being at home.

Nurse, burp, move. The clock starts ticking. About two hours before his next feeding. While he’s napping, I can do my homework – prepare dinner even if it’s 11 a.m. Throw in a load of laundry that is often forgotten (and needs to be washed again) for a day or two. Take a quick shower – sweet moment for me. I’m amazed at what I can achieve while the clock is ticking.

But then it’s time to breastfeed again in no time.

Since this is my second time, I know this time is so short.

Is it a big commitment? Yes sir. Do I feel like I’m in a hamster wheel? Yes sir. Am I totally exhausted? Yes sir. Some days do I wish that someone else in my house could also produce milk from their body? Yes sir. Do I long to leave the house more often? Yes sir.

But that’s how motherhood works.

He needs me now. I am his lifeline. So I keep fighting, in three-hour blocks. And then I’ll just blink like that and he’ll go to preschool. Don’t need me so often during the day. You no longer want to snuggle up for those grooming sessions. Not my baby anymore. So I’ll hold out for now, just a little longer.

We know these days are not easy. But as moms who were there, we found a few important things that can help.

Bebe au lait muslin swaddle blanket

Versatile, life-saving and absolutely indispensable. A super soft swaddle blanket is like the Swiss Army Knife of early motherhood. We used them as nursing covers, tops for dirt cleaners, stroller blankets, scarves and even as baby equipment (#windelbagfail). Keep one with you and you will feel ready for anything.

Glowe BFF t shirt

A shirt with which you can breastfeed and still look chic and put together? You have it. This flowing top made of super soft, breathable Italian material goes perfectly with leggings and sneakers to your favorite jeans and mules. The concealed side zip means you can get down to business anywhere.

Belly Bandit BDA nursing bra

Comfortable enough to sleep in but supportive enough to wear all day. We’re big fans of this crossover style of nursing bras from Belly Bandit. With removable pads that catch leaks, you’ll stay confident too!

[This was originally published March, 2018. It has since been updated.]