So today I've been thinking about breast feeding...

Its lunch time at work and I'm reading "top tips for breast feeding" and have come over all emotional (hormones are a glorious part of being pregnant don't you know?). I think the feeling that I will be able to give my child something that nobody else can give her is amazing. I will have the ability to give my child everything she needs that my body will produce for me all on its own. How wonderful does that sound?

In my own mind, I know its not going to be easy. So many people give up within the first couple of weeks because of the pain and seeing as my pain threshold is really quite low, I'm going to have to be seriously determined not to stop so our baby can have the best possible start in life.

Lots of useful tips like having a "feeding pack" by the side of the sofa and bed is a great idea. Apparently a pack consists of bottled water and squash, biscuits and sweet snacks, the tv remote and your mobile phone. Sounds good to me!

Nobody in my family has been able to establish breast feeding for very long at all. I think my Aunty gave it a go with her first and lasted a couple of weeks and didnt try with her other 3 at all because of the pain and stress it caused having a crying baby, painful boobs and sleep deprivation. Well, its hardly a recipe for success is it? I have no idea how woman do it, but I really want to give it my best shot.

Apparently setting yourself little targets and milestones is the way to go. I think we'll aim for little targets in the beginning - 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, etc. Then if we make it, go for 3 months, 6 months etc. I think it really is the best start in life you can offer your newborn child.

So, I've decided I'm going to be very determined and give it the best I can give. I think my greatest motivation will be that none of my family have managed to do it. They already have a relatively low opinion of my parenting skills (not that Ive shown them yet anyway) so being able to say "you were wrong, I can do this, see?" will be very rewarding.

Armed with breast pads, nipple cream and a manual pump, I shall be ready for when Bean arrives. I'm actually rather excited about it now. What a strange Mummy to be I am.....!