I'm so excited to share these photos with you from guest photographer
Marta Locklear! The beautiful mother pictured here, Tracy, contacted me about wanting to submit the photos, and I was thrilled to see how gorgeous they are. Thank you so much, Tracy and Marta! You can see more of Marta's work at www.martalocklearphoto.com. Can you believe Tracy is about to give birth to her sixth child AND is a step-mom of 3?!
"It is such an empowering experience to know that your body was designed in a way to nurture and sustain life through breastfeeding. I couldn’t imagine not using my God given ability to provide the added benefits of breastfeeding for my child and me.
"Breastfeeding for me did not 'magically' happen. It did not come without its challenges. Breastfeeding requires commitment, dedication, sacrifice and energy. I was intimately familiar with sore, cracked nipples, engorgement, etc. Among other things, I have nursed through sickness, nausea, sore nipples, exhaustion, and although it wasn’t easy, I did it and survived. How does the old adage go 'what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger?' The process was constant and sometimes wearing, especially when I added pumping to the equation. However, it is just one of the many sacrifices that we as mothers make. Knowing that I am providing my child with the best nourishment possible is reason enough for me.
"Breastfeeding for me was not just physical. It was a spiritual and emotional journey. The amazing bond between mother and child that is created seems 'magical.' I think breastfeeding is an extension of our body’s ability to give birth.
"Breastfeeding for me has been love, priceless, precious, empowering, challenging, comforting, emotional, fulfilling, and a blessing all wrapped up in one!
"The longest that I’ve breastfed any one of my children has been two years. With another 'blessing' on the way (due Aug. 2011), I don’t have a cut-off date. I will just take it one day at a time. No expectations and no disappointments. I will just allow it to happen. I applaud all mothers that breastfeed and give of themselves unconditionally.
"I can’t thank my husband enough for his continued support. Like I said, breastfeeding did not come without its challenges, but he was always right there by my side encouraging me, lifting me up and saying what a wonderful job I was doing. He never once questioned my body’s ability to produce the 'liquid gold'. He never suggested that I give up and offer the baby formula. Together we found a way to continue, 'to fight the good fight', and for that I am grateful! "Breastfeeding, for me has been a journey, but definitely one worth taking!"
~ Tracy, mama to 13 month old Kingston
