hi erin,
bfing is full of stages and changes. it's a challenging course to take, but as you well know so worth the effort. i think what's going on is probably a combination of the age and stage, and maybe a little need to separate some. i have a six month old and at times i feel slightly resentful that she refuses a bottle and therefore dh won't let me leave her with him. i used to love to go to the movies or shop and those things are so hard to do with a baby that wants to be close to me and nurse frequently, like mine does. but this is the sweetest time of life, trust me. these are the best days. you are certainly on track with knowledge, to say the least, you are doing your best. so if you think you need a break here and there with a bottle..then do it. i just wouldn't make it part of any routine, but rather "occasionally". hang in there, bf-ing mommas rock!

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