Pumping Routines That Work – Create a Schedule That Supports Your Goals

Why a Routine Matters -

Whether you’re returning to work, exclusively pumping, or just want backup milk for date night - a clear pumping routine helps protect your supply and your sanity.

Sample Schedules

- Working Mom: Pump every 2–3 hours while away, and nurse at home

- Exclusive Pumper: Pump every 2–3 hours around the clock

- Mixed Feeding: Pump after nursing sessions to build a stash

Milk Storage 101 (Quick Refresher)

- Room temp (77°F or below): 4 hours

- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days

- Freezer: 6–12 months (deep freezer = longest)

Always label milk with **date/time** and store in the back of the fridge/freezer.

Some Helpful Pumping Essentials - 

- Double Electric Pump

- Hands-Free Pumping Bra

- Milk Storage Organizer

#PumpingJourney #WorkingMom #MilkyWayMom

Nursing in Public – Building Confidence, One Feed at a Time

Reclaiming Your Right to Feed! 

We previously touched base on this before, but this is one aspect about breastfeeding that I am truly passionate about. Raising and feeding a human on demand is easiest when there is no pressure to be able to do so. 

Breastfeeding in public isn’t just legal—it’s NORMAL. But that doesn’t mean it feels easy. Sure we wish that people who don't understand it or have little awareness of it to simply look away, change channels, "do you" - but they don't and sometimes wont - and hopefully this will improve over time - but until it does, focus on you and your baby. 

Why? Because that's all that matters and keeping that laser focus in these moments will also help you have the confidence to do what's best for you both. 

Whether you're in a restaurant, church, or airport, you DESERVE to feed your baby in peace. This post is here to boost your confidence - and offer some real-world tips.

First - remember your rights!

All fifty (50) states protect the right to breastfeed in public. You’re allowed to feed without a cover, anywhere you're otherwise allowed to be. If you didn't know, now you know...and never ever forget that...

Check out existing legislation here from the U.S Breastfeeding Committee. Please note that there are several mentions that mother's are to be provided with "a private, non-bathroom space for lactating employees to pump milk".  

I say this, because I was provided with a "private bathroom" at a previous place of work, and found it hard to explain that I am essentially "meal prepping" for my baby in a bathroom.  ...and what's even worse, is that I shouldn't have to explain it at all.  

Being new to this company I didn't want to create waves.  I didn't want to explain. I wanted to seem cooperative, but I was dying inside every, single time I had to take my pump out in the bathroom. It's not OK, moms - so speak up and don't be afraid. 

And honestly, if someone in your workplace is going to give you a hard time about that - it may not be the best environment for you long term. Because your baby will continue to grow, and continue to need you - and no support now, might mean no support later. Think about it, and remember what is most important. 

Tips for Discreet Feeding (only if it makes YOU feel more comfortable)

Confidence-Boosting Product Options:

- Wear a nursing tank or two-shirt method 

- Bring a lightweight "nursing cover" 

- Try baby-wearing while feeding for subtle mobility

Again these are suggestions to help YOU feel more comfortable - NOT because you have to...and yes, you can nurse in a carrier! Trust me, I did it all that time. Just quickly adjust when needed and feed on demand anywhere you wear your baby.

Pro-tip: Confidence Comes With Practice

Start small. Feed in your car. Then try a park bench. Then a café. Each time, your confidence grows. And each time, you normalize breastfeeding for someone else.

Real Talk: If someone gives you a dirty look, remember: You are nourishing a human being. You have nothing to be ashamed of.

#NormalizeBreastfeeding #PublicNursing #MilkyWayMom

Source: usbreastfeeding.org

How Much Milk Is Enough? Understanding Supply Worries

“Am I Making Enough Milk?”  It’s one of the top worries for new moms. The truth? Most of us are making just the right amount. But without clear signs, it’s easy to doubt ourselves.

Signs Your Baby Is Getting Enough: 

- At least **6 wet diapers** and **3 poopy diapers** per day by day 5  

- Baby is gaining weight (after initial loss)  

- You can hear or see swallowing during feeds  

- Baby seems content after feeding

Signs of Low Supply (where Moms may need support)

- Less than 6 wet diapers per day after day 5  

- Poor weight gain  

- Constant frustration or hunger cues  

- Very short or very long nursing sessions without satisfaction

Tips to Support Supply

- Feed on demand (including night feeds!)  

- Avoid early pacifier use  

- Ensure a deep latch  

- Practice skin-to-skin daily

Must-Haves to Monitor and Support

- Haakaa Milk Catcher  

- Baby Scale  

- Milk Storage Bags

Reminder: Milk supply isn’t a reflection of your worth. It’s not a competition. Every drop matters. You’re doing beautifully.

 #MilkSupplyMatters #BreastfeedingConfidence #MilkyWayMom

Mastering the Latch – Why It Matters & How to Get It Right

Why the Latch Matters...

When we talk about successful breastfeeding, everything starts with the latch. A deep, effective latch can prevent nipple pain, ensure your baby gets enough milk, and make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for both of you. But here’s the thing—getting a good latch isn’t always intuitive. Many families face struggles in the beginning, and that’s completely normal.

Signs of a Shallow Latch

- Nipple pain or damage  

- Clicking or smacking sounds while feeding  

- Baby seems frustrated or feeds constantly  

- You don’t feel a strong suck/swallow rhythm

Steps to Improve the Latch

1. Position matters. Try cross-cradle or laid-back breastfeeding. Support baby’s neck and shoulders, not the head.  

2. Wait for a wide mouth...as if they are having a big yawn. Tickle the lips with your on of your nipples, which will help encourage baby to open her mouth.

3. Aim nipple toward the roof of the mouth. Baby’s chin should touch the breast first, with lips flanged out like a fish.  

4. Listen for swallowing. That’s liquid gold going down!

Mom-Tested Products That Can Help:

- Nursing Pillow

- Nipple Shields  

- Breastfeeding Stool

Real Talk: 

Moms, you’re doing something amazing. If you’re feeling sore, discouraged, or confused—it doesn’t mean you’re failing. Support is available. Keep trying, get help if needed, and give yourself grace.

#LatchTips #BreastfeedingBasics #MilkyWayMom

Mornings Made Easy: Hands-Off Breakfasts with the Instant Pot

School mornings can feel like a sprint before sunrise. On the days I want warmth without the stress, I let the Instant Pot do the heavy lifting. Steel-cut oats, breakfast quinoa, or cinnamon apples—set it, sip your coffee, and breathe.

Here’s my favorite base: oats + water or milk, a pinch of salt, and a tiny kiss of organic monk fruit to keep it cozy without the sugar crash. While it cooks, I pack the backpack, sign the permission slip I forgot about, and give out one last hug before carline. Our school is a good 20-miniute drive away, so I always make breakfast to go to save time. I like to pretend my daughter is boarding "Mommy Airlines" to keep it fun.

The best part? Breakfast waits for us. A quick swirl of almond butter or berries at the end, and suddenly the morning feels calmer, kinder, doable.

Back, Recharged, and Ready for What’s Next!

It feels so good to be back. 💕

Our little family has had quite a full season — from spending precious time with family in France (nothing fills the heart quite like long dinners and seaside walks) to working on some exciting future developments with Café Breizh, our family business that continues to grow in ways we’re so proud of.

And of course, one of the biggest highlights of all has been helping our daughter, Gabi, transition to her new and absolutely amazing school. Watching her light up with excitement each morning reminds me why we do what we do — to build a life that feels aligned, grounded, and full of love.

Now that things are settling into a new rhythm, I’m so excited to reconnect, share fresh inspiration, and continue building this beautiful Milky Way Moms space together. October is already full of cozy recipes, self-care ideas, and real-talk reflections on motherhood — and I can’t wait for you to read what’s coming next. Keep in touch with me at The Milky Way for updates, tips, tricks, laughs and support and learning more about one of my deepest passions - breastfeeding. 

Here’s to slowing down, savoring the good, and embracing what’s ahead.
I’ve missed you all — and I’m so happy to be back. 💫

Bisous! 😘