Mum’s Journey: Introducing Jade

I lead a reasonably busy lifestyle, as a mum, wife and a hairdresser (currently on maternity leave). I'm very outgoing, social and I love meeting new people.

I Absolutely Love My Life!

My husband and I have a passion for adventure. Having four boys means our weekends are always filled with activities such as fishing, road trips and motorbike riding.

I'm also obsessed with the girly side of life! I love coffee dates, trips to the salon and long hot baths. I also love product styling and photography.

It’s Time to Share

At the start of this year, I decided I wanted to share more about my life. I wanted to talk about topics that included birth, breastfeeding, family, blended families, life, babies and children. I wanted to be able to share my experiences… so I thought I would start writing a blog which keeps me busy, my head clear and it's a great way to make memories.

I’m Following My Dreams

Reading and writing is something I've always enjoyed but never had the courage to do. I didn't think I was smart enough. My husband encourages me to pursue my dreams no matter how big or small they may be. He is always there to back me up.

The struggles and challenges that I find myself facing are caused by the way I feel about myself. My boys are well mannered and (90% of the time) well behaved. They are always kind, gentle and generous to each other and other children.

I find adding the fourth baby to our family has changed the dynamics of our household, so far it seems... Easier?!

But Give it Time! We Are Only Four Weeks in!

After I had Hudson and Patrick, I developed some body image issues. I struggled with wearing bikinis, shorts or anything above the knee.

Confidence was something I was lacking and I started to not feel like myself. Then I fell pregnant with Jack, only four months after Patrick was born.

Being pregnant for the third time was amazing; as my beautiful bump grew so did my confidence. I felt beautiful, just as I had when I was pregnant with Hudson and Patrick.

I think being pregnant is where I shine, full of confidence and love for myself and my body. Once Jack was born, I sunk back into old habits of hating the way my body looked and felt. I became gym obsessed, going twice a day 5 days a week and once on the weekends… not because I wanted to be skinny but because I wanted to be strong!

My Fourth Pregnancy Changed Me Completely

This time, I was finally able to see that I am beautiful on the inside and out! I realised my body was strong and it should be loved… after all, it did give me four beautiful baby boys!

Breastfeeding is something I've become quite passionate about. I encourage any mum to really give it a good go and to seek the right advice.

Hudson being my first, I was a little naïve. I wasn't given the correct information regarding breastfeeding, so I struggled and was only able to feed for two months.

Feeding Patrick was a little more successful. I was able to feed him for six months and then my supply dried up due to falling pregnant with Jack.

With Jack, I was so proud of our breastfeeding journey. He fed for 15 months. I had done so much research and pushed through every obstacle that we came across, except self-weaning! That's where our journey ended.

I’m Excited to Share My Journey with You

Working alongside the team at Medela excites me. I feel I will get so much out of this experience and I hope that others, including my friends, will benefit from hearing about my journey.

How would you describe your own breastfeeding experience? Let’s have a chat and support each other here or on the Medela Australia Facebook page.