Tuesday, February 24, 2015

What's up? (After the birth)

So, what have I been up to since the birth? About 1300 oz in breastmilk. (That's how much I've pumped since Catalina was born)



Yep, I've been pumping away. I've been fairly casual about it and I even sleep through the night. But I make sure I pump at least 4-6 times a day. (It feels like I'm always pumping)
I enjoy it though. I mean, it takes a lot of effort and I have to keep at it, but I do what I can to make it enjoyable. If we are running around, I pump in the car. Whatever it takes. I'm a milk mama.


While I was still pregnant, I hoped to be able to pump at least 25 oz/day. I got to that around 6-7 weeks postpartum. I am now up to about 30 oz/day and seem to be increasing still.

I haven't finished pumping yet today, in fact, I'm pumping now.
;-)

So far I have fed 5 babies with my milk and given a taste to a 6th. I have been donating to local families and will soon be donating to a milk bank. 

It's a wonderful feeling, but sometimes I feel bad like, this is Baby CiCi's milk, it belongs to her! It would absolutely go to her if my IPs lived closer or if shipping milk wasn't so expensive and such a pain in the butt. I'm glad she got some in her first 24 hours and I hope to get her more somehow.

And, in case you're wondering, IPs have stayed in touch and sent pictures which makes us all happy.


Sunday, February 8, 2015

A little pat on the back and thank you

I did it!

I have a dream job helping others.
(For those that don't know, I am co-founder and co-owner of Utah's first surrogacy agency) I get to do something that I have a love and passion for, something that I know and understand. This didn't happen overnight. This is something that I had worked up to over the past 9 years without even knowing it. But then one day, the timing was right and I got the ball rolling.

It hasn't been easy. There have been times that I didn't know if I could go on. But there are people who believed in me, people who encouraged me to do it in the first place, and people who have joined me in the process. 
THANK YOU!

Of course there were those who tried to stop me or at least slow me down and discourage me. But that just made me push harder. It made me more determined. We all have things to overcome and I'm so proud that I've made it this far and am
still going strong. I'm grateful for so many people who have supported me along the way and for those that have given our agency a chance.

I believe that you get what you put out. I believe in Karma and the golden rule and they have both treated me pretty good. 

Trust and respect are earned. The truth will shine through, even when people try to cloud things and spew their filth. I'm not saying I'm perfect. I am just proud that I've overcome anxieties and obstacles.

When I really set out to do something, I make it happen. When you choose to be honest, respectful and positive, it pays off. I feel lucky and blessed. It's not all luck though. You get what you put out and when you're doing the right things, things will fall into place. 

I started this all at the beginning of my own surrogacy journey/pregnancy when I was super tired and nauseous. But I didn't give up.

Now, 10 months and a few changes later, the agency is growing and doing well. I work with the Intended Parents and it's amazing. Of course it's heartbreaking to hear of their struggles, but it's inspiring to help them in their family goals and to look to the future.

We are working on 3 matches right now and it's very exciting. 

We are a great option for local couples and surrogates, but we are not limited to Utah. We have connections and resources worldwide.

We have a wonderful professional team that works great together.

If you want to learn more about the agency, or if you are looking for a surrogate or interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit 
www.DeliveringDreamsSurrogacy.com

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