Lattes and Latitude: February 2017

Before I became a Mom, I was "certain" about so much. The reality is, you don't know what kind of parent you will become until your little one officially arrives. Many of my pre-baby expectations have been kissed goodbye...and I'm grateful I gave in. In a relatively short time, I've learned to ease up and not be hard on myself. Enjoy a few of my initial, and, hopefully, relatable expectations.

That Was Then: "I won't let the baby play with my iPhone."

This is Now: "Here you go, buddy." *Hands over the iPhone*

Ha, this is laughable! The iPhone (or iPad) is a lifesaver. I tried to keep it at bay, but I gave in months ago. Around 10-months, changing G's diaper became an aerobic exercise. He rolled, kicked and cried so much I would sweat. What kept him calm and stationary? The iPhone.

More importantly, we're raising G to be bilingual. My husband's first language is Albanian and it's important that G learns the language to communicate with family. Unfortunately, Albanian language tools aren't as accessible compared to Spanish or French. Thanks to YouTube, we've introduced G to traditional kids music, nursery rhymes and programs about letters and numbers. He's learned so much and, yes, currently speaks more Albanian than English. Bravo!

That Was Then: "I'm always going to have a diaper bag prepped and ready to go."

This is Now: "Where's the diaper bag? Where are the diapers? Are there snacks in this thing?" *Tosses diaper bag, huffs around house in search of lost items.*

Listen, my intentions are always good. Our steady state diaper bag is packed and waiting on our main floor. Despite that, sometimes an item gets left out. But...you know what? As long as I have diapers, wipes and G's EpiPen, I refuse to get worked up. On an average day, we're cruising around Atlanta...not the rainforest. If I forget something, there's a Target, CVS, Publix or Kroger nearby. I've used a gazillion paper towels on a changing station when I forgot the changing pad. I've asked a waiter for a cup of boiling water to clean a pacifier that fell on a gross floor (yes, this is true). Improvise. Life's too short.

That Was Then: "My baby is going to wear the cutest, most stylish outfits ever!"

This is Now: "Do you wanna wear your comfy pants?" *Ignores denim unless necessary*

Real talk, Genti has a cute wardrobe but he rarely wears denim or matchy-matchy outfits. I have my favorite brands (I'm looking at you OshKosh, Baby Gap & Zara) but 9.5 times out of 10, he's wearing an outfit featuring a crew neck sweatshirt, cotton t-shirt, jersey pants or sweat pants. Little guys are always on-the-go and need to feel unrestricted and comfortable. He'll wear denim or dressy outfits on special occasions but that's it. Outfits featuring suspenders, bow-ties, complicated buttons and fussy layers rarely see the light of day.

That Was Then: "My baby will only eat organic foods!"

This is Now: "Would you like some blueberries?" *Note: February is not blueberry season.*

All jokes aside, G eats very healthy foods. If I let him, he would live on blueberries, cucumbers, corn and coconut milk yogurt. I'm 100% the Mom who sprinkles chia seeds in his morning oats and afternoon smoothie. If I can swap honey for sugar, I'm all in. When possible, I opt for organic meats, fruits, veggies and snacks. However, I try not to loose sleep over it. It'll be OK...enjoy life!

That Was Then: "I will take advantage of all the free-admission, baby-friendly, stimulating activities around town!"

This is Now: "Want to play...with your toys...in the living room? *Ignores leaving the house with the diaper bag...which is probably missing items, anyways.*

I love Atlanta and all it offers for babies, toddlers and kids. But sometimes staying home feels just right. My heart is most full when the three of us cuddle and watch an episode of Sesame Street. I'm happily entertained when my husband and G wrestle and horseplay on the living room floor. Life moves a million miles per hour. I want to enjoy these simple, sweet moments before our boy grows up.

5-months pregnant & full of knowledge

Can you relate? Leave a comment below and share your own favorite "That Was Then, This is Now" moment!

This January, I closed a significant chapter in my Mommyhood journey. There's a part of me that can't believe I'm writing this, but, here it goes...

After 19 months, I stopped breastfeeding.

I never imagined breastfeeding beyond a year, nor did I imagine writing about such a personal experience in a public forum. However, I've grown comfortable with discussing breastfeeding and discourage others from referring to breastfeeding as a taboo topic.

It's important to know I don't judge women who refrain from breastfeeding or who nurse for a different duration of time. We're all trying to be the best Moms we can. Sometimes physical or personal circumstances impact breastfeeding and each woman's decision is hers. As long as your baby is fed and cared for you're doing an outstanding job, Mama! {{hugs}}

While pregnant with G, I set out to breastfeed for one year. If I came up short, I knew he would be just fine. But we did it and I consider this my greatest accomplishment as a Mom. I learned the importance of sacrificing self comfort for my child's needs. To be 100% responsible for nourishment is a monumental task.

As G grew, and solid foods were incorporated into his diet, I felt pieces of weight lift from my shoulders. He was getting much-needed nutrition from alternate sources and I was so grateful the process went smoothly. When Genti turned one, I continued nursing due to two upcoming international vacations. Breastfeeding would provide the comfort he needed on long plane rides and in different enviornments. Afterwards, I started to drop daytime pumping and feeds.

I knew G was ready to transition when the dreaded 18-month sleep regression started. It was brutal. His 4-5 cries a night weren't because he "needed milk," he was just requesting to be pacified. We were both sleep deprived and, finally, I waived the white flag. Two nights later, he was done and sleeping through the night. I miss our quiet time together, but, wow, I am finally rested!

Since I've become a Mom, I've discovered a sincere love of swapping tips and tricks with my girlfriends and fellow Moms. If I were sitting with them over a glass of wine while wearing an over-sized sweatshirt and yoga pants, this is exactly what I'd share:

Ask for Help: Blessed are the women who dedicate their lives to lactation support. I did not shy away from the expertise of Lactation Consultants at my local hospital and G's pediatrician's office. In fact, I scheduled an appointment with a LC before my maternity leave wrapped. Together, we discussed my pumping plan and she provided invaluable support.

Hydrate: The more hydrated you are, the better! I noticed a serious drop in my supply if I skipped my water intake. I would drink three 24-ounce servings of water at work and another at home thanks to my large Tervis Tumbler. Hydration is so easy to overlook, but it makes a significant difference.

Establish a Pumping Schedule: When I returned to work, and G was completely dependent on milk, I established a strict pumping schedule. Every day, I scheduled three pump sessions and booked a Mom's Room (the company I worked for had amazing, clean rooms for Moms complete with refrigerators, sinks and comfy chairs). I rescheduled conflicting meetings and updated attendees if I needed a delayed start or an early departure. To be candid, my work was important, but not as important as taking care of my baby. As he grew, I eased up and moved my pump sessions to accommodate my workload. Thanks to a consistent routine, I successfully maintained my milk supply for a year.

Genti visiting the Mom's Room

Develop a Storing and Cleaning Routine: For months, I cleaned and sterilized pump parts and prepped the next day's bottles. This process required some go-to products including Medela Steam Bags, Boon Grass Dryer Rack, Boon Bottle Brush & Lansinoh Storage Bags. When I came home from work, I would smother G in kisses and promptly kick-off the cleaning process. If I waited until the late evening or following morning, I loathed myself. Cleaning pump parts isn't exactly manual labor, but it's cumbersome, and can be an annoying way to start or end the day. Committing to a routine kept me sane.

Travel Away From Baby With Ease: If you're traveling without baby, Milk Stork is the ultimate lifesaver! Milk Stork is the first and only breast milk delivery service for traveling moms, providing no-fuss, refrigerated, express shipping or easy toting of your breast milk to your baby back home. Prior to your departure you simply "plan your trip" on the Milk Stork website. After the trip is planned, your box is sent with pre-printed shipping labels.

I used Milk Stork on a business trip to California. When I checked into my hotel, the box containing storage bags, ice packs, labels and packing tape was waiting for me. All I did was pump, assemble the box and leave it with concierge who coordinated the shipment. Within hours, my milk arrived back home, fully chilled, ready for G. The cost ranges from $79-$159. Thankfully, my one-and-only trip away from G was work related and my previous employer paid for two boxes and shipments. I was so grateful!

My Milk Stork shipment complete with a personal love note

Prep for Travel: I've traveled a significant amount of miles while breastfeeding, so I've nailed the packing list. Preparation is key, Mama! In my carry-on, I packed extra storage bags, steam bags, a new bottle cleaner and a spare set of pump parts in case my luggage was lost. I secretly dreaded breastfeeding on a crowded plane but, quite frankly, I had no choice but to get over it. Thankfully, the Bravada Nursing Bra is super comfortable and helped keep things discreet. For added privacy, consider packing a scarf or a breastfeeding cover to keep you and baby comfy. Prior to an international trip, I purchased a Medela Manual Pump. I feared losing my luggage or encountering issues with the adapter on my standard pump. I brought both and the manual ended up being a lifesaver! I only used it a few times, but it was easier than schlepping around my standard pump.