My friend Jennifer and I came up with a great idea that I absolutely love. As you know, I am expecting my first child. This can be so overwhelming and I know that other first time moms probably feel the same. I have so many questions and would love to hear the opinions of moms who have already been through this a time or two before.Because of this, we are hosting a weekly series for a few weeks to try and get some answers to some of the most common questions.
We divided the series into two mini 4 week series grouped into questions Pre-Baby & Post Baby.
The first mini series will be:
Friday, April 5: Registering (Everything you need to know, Must Haves, Don't Bothers, etc...)Friday, April 12: Nursery Organization & IdeasFriday, April 19: Packing For The Hospital: For you & the babyFriday, April 26: Birth Stories (The good, bad, and ugly) / Birth Plans (yes? no?)
The second mini series will be:
Friday, May 3: Bringing Baby Home / Surviving The First Few WeeksFriday, May 10: Breast Feeding vs. FormulaFriday, May 17: Calming Your Baby & Sleep MethodsFriday, May 24: Losing The Baby Weight
So without further ado, let's get on with Week 5: Bringing Baby Home & Surviving The First Few Weeks! Since I do not have any children of my own yet, I will be featuring a blogger each week and their expert advice on the topic at hand (:
Bringing Baby Home & Surviving The First Few Weeks:
Hello ladies! I am Tiffany and I blog at The Dwelling Tree. I was thrilled to guest post on the first few weeks with your baby, because it is such a special time. Bringing home your new baby will be one of the most memorable experiences you will ever have in your lifetime! Enjoy the precious moments as you welcome your new member of the family into your home. I still remember the car ride home from the hospital like it was yesterday.
Although it is an exciting time, some moms can feel overwhelmed by the huge life change. Through my own experience and advice from girlfriends, I have compiled a list of "suggestions" on how to make the transition easier, so you can enjoy the process as much as possible!
Scheduling company
In the first weeks, try to limit company to those who will be helpful and understanding if you need rest or alone time. Be honest with yourself and company with your needs. If you are a people-pleaser like me, enlist the help of your husband to gently let company know when the visit is over. Don't feel bad if you need a few weeks of alone time with your husband and baby before family from out of town stays in your home.Accept help
Many people will offer assistance. Take it! I did a poor job accepting help from my friends and family, and looking back wish I had done so. If someone wants to watch your little one while you get a nap or shower, do not feel bad about it! Make a list beforehand of areas you may want help, and give it to a trusted friend or family member to organize help for you. Mealtrain.com is an excellent website that allows people to sign up for meal deliveries.Sleep when you can
You will be tired, so get as much rest as you can. Try not to worry about chores and housecleaning. Allow yourself time to rest. You will need it!Hydration station
I had a difficult time remembering to drink enough water, and often skipped meals. Create a station for yourself with the following items: water bottle, snacks such as trail mix or protein bars, a journal and pen (for capturing those sweet moments on paper), a log for feeding/ diaper changes, your phone, and your camera (you'll be amazed how many pictures you'll take!). Keep this near where you might nurse or feed your baby.Exercise
Don't rush to the gym in the first few weeks. Give yourself time to heal. Walking is a great way to burn calories and feel great in the first few weeks. Taking baby outdoors in your infant stroller and cruising through the neighborhood is a fun way to spend time with your little one and instantly lift your spirits!Breastfeeding
If you are going to breastfeed, consider joining a support group as soon as possible. These are wonderful communities where you will be able to meet with other moms and be encouraged in your commitment. If you cannot join a group, there are great books out there! Be patient in the process, and give yourself lots of time. I loved nursing my little girl and the journey and temporary discomfort was worth it!Ways to lift your spirits
If you experience feelings of sadness or loneliness, be aware that this is common. Some ways to feel better can be as simple as inviting over a good friend for company, or even chatting on the phone for a few minutes. Taking a hot bath or putting on a little mascara and lip gloss can help brighten your spirits. Ask your husband to give you an hour at a local bible study or at a coffee shop to read something inspiring. Try to find encouragement with friends and family, and be honest about your feelings. Hormonal and emotional swings are normal in the first few weeks. Give yourself grace!Enjoy every minute
I miss those early days. I was worn and tired but I have such sweet and precious memories. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment, and let go of pressures you might feel! Like everyone says, the time goes by so fast. The best advice I received was to hold my baby as much as I wanted, because I won't be able to hold her forever!
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