Plus-Size Model's Fiancé Posts The Most Body-Positive Breastfeeding Photo
Let's talk about breastfeeding.
I am by no means even remotely an expert on the topic. I am not a mother, nor do I have extensive experience dealing with kids. From what I do understand, however, it's not exactly an easy thing to do. There are pumps involved as well as a rigorous schedule. And it's not even guaranteed that the breastmilk will decide to show up to the party. Sometimes, you get lucky and actually get milk. Other times, not so much.
Plus, because we live in a society that sexualizes breasts, many mothers aren't allowed to breastfeed or pump in public. Basically, breastfeeding is hard, and it's one of the reasons I'm terrified of motherhood.
If you haven't heard of Tess Holliday, get yourself in check. She's a model, a makeup artist and an activist. She's also the mother of a baby boy and, you guessed it, she breastfeeds. Earlier today, she posted a photo of a huge breastfeeding success: being able to feed her baby while lying down.
If the shot wasn't “aww”-worthy in and of itself, here's the most perfect part: Holliday's photo was a repost from her fiancé, Nick, who actually took the photo and posted it to his own Instagram first. His caption is also one of the most body-positive things you'll read today:
He said,
A lot of people seemed to get upset that @tessholliday posted a photo hashtagged '#normalizebreastfeeding' which didn't actually feature the act of breastfeeding. So here you go. She actually looks really sexy here - but it isn't always like that. Sometimes it's stressful and messy and nothing goes how you want it to. But sometimes it's bliss. Don't let anyone make you feel bad about feeding your child, wherever that may be, and for the women out there who can't breastfeed, don't let anyone make you feel bad about that either. Edited to add: Finding a plus size mother (two groups robbed of all sexuality) with whom I am in a relationship 'sexy' for being a good mum is not the same as objectifying strangers body parts in public.
Go, Nick! Also, go, Tess! Go, baby Bowie! Go, everyone!
BRB, looking to find me a Nick of my own.