Breastfeeding has taught me so many things: some good, some bad, some funny and some sentimental.

1. I never knew something that seems so simple could be so difficult and stressful.

2. Who knew that my eating Mexican food could wreak so much havoc on the whole family?

3. It turns out you can fix a boo boo with more than just a bandaid and a kiss. Boob to the rescue!

4. And speaking of fixing things: who knew breastmilk could fix diaper rash, pink eye, stuffy nose, ear and eye infections, eczema, and many more things… And not only on the baby who’s nursing!?

5. Breasts are really stretchy.

6. My mom wasn’t kidding when she said nursing can cause contractions. Whooo boy.

7. Breastmilk is delicious.

8. I am capable of sustaining a human life on my own. How scary and empowering and exciting!

9. Who knew boobs could become so desensitized and underwhelming?

10. I knew breasts could make money, but didn’t realize they could save me thousands of dollars each year!

11. Speaking of monetary value, I had no idea I was capable of making something many consider “liquid gold,” that can be sold for a few dollars an ounce! But seriously, who would do that? Donate, donate, donate!

12. It turns out I can reach and then surpass my goals. As of this month I’ve been breastfeeding my second child for 13 months. Add that to the 34 months I nursed Trent and I’ve almost reached 4 years total!

What a rewarding experience breastfeeding has been for me and my family. It’s something I look forward to every day and has saved us so much money plus it has helped me nurture two healthy, happy, and strong boys. It’s created a bond between me and each child as well as one between Nate and I, as we’ve banded together to make reaching our breastfeeding goals easier.

*I’m being brave and sharing some intimate thoughts and pictures here. Please don’t make me regret it.