Before I had Grace, I thought I was prepared for "motherhood". I even stopped work a few weeks before she came to be extra prepared. I had decorated her nursery, washed all her tiny clothes, packed her diaper bag, stocked up on diapers, frozen casseroles and cleaned the house. I had it all pictured... the two of us running around the neighborhood, shopping, and all perfectly dressed and put together. However, I should have been a lot more realistic. Here are some thoughts to help you get through the first few weeks of being a new mom:
1. Accept help- We were so blessed that my mom came and stayed with us the first week after Grace was born. She was amazing! She did everything! She washed dishes, made dinner, washed clothes, changed almost all of Grace's diapers, and gave great motherly advice. Also every time someone offers to make a meal... ACCEPT. The more things that you do not have to worry about the better! At the hospital, ask for the help of a lactation consultant. I had a great lady who helped me so much, and thanks to her Grace and I have had no trouble!
2. Find time for yourself- This doesn't mean that you need to go out and do something extravagant. I often take a bath after Grace goes to bed. Most of the time this is my only alone time. I take advantage of it and lay there as long as possible. Find something that gives you energy.
3. Breastfeeding is hard work- I thought breastfeeding would be just a walk in the park. Well it is more like a marathon. It is wonderful in the way that you do not have clean bottles or carry anything extra along. However, you can not put it off on someone else even if it is 2am, you are on call.
4. Do not rush- Time goes by so quickly! You little one is only little for such a short time. Cherish every second of it and take LOTS of pictures.
6. Follow your instincts- It is true... mama knows best.
7. Go outside- Now I know this has to be weather specific, but when Grace was only a couple weeks old we would lay in the shade on a blanket. This would rejuvenate me, and I know it was good for the two of us to get fresh air and some vit D.
8. Don't forget about your husband- My husband so was much help. He changed so many diapers and would run to get me water when I was nursing. With your entire life now centered around your new little addition, don't forget about your husband. This is all new to him too and he is trying to find his place among it all.
9. Swaddle- My husband became an A+ swaddler. We would swaddle her every night and she would sleep so much better! Learn how and use it!
10. If you need to cry, cry- My mom warned me a couple days after Grace was born that I might want to cry and for no reason. Sure enough I did. It is ok. You are not alone.
11. Make meals ahead of time- I made soups and casseroles and froze them before Grace was born. It was such a relief to not have to make dinner or send the hubby to go get anything.
12. Shower daily- This made me feel like I was alive. Even now I make myself shower everyday. When I shower it makes the day begin. This will also help you differentiate between day and night, even though you might have been up half the night.
13. Make a schedule- This was a lifesaver for me. When I knew what time Grace needed what, then I knew when I could get things done. This way you also know why she is crying at a particular time. This might be my #1 tip!
I hope this will make the first few weeks of motherhood a little easier for you! Any experienced moms do you have anything to add to the list?
yes!! especially #7! so true :)
ReplyDeleteI completely agree! You have to go outside and get some fresh air!
DeleteThanks for sharing! My hubby and I are expecting our first in less than 2 months now! :) Just curious, but how many meals would you recommend freezing?
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your new little one!!! As far as meals, I would suggest at least a week. After giving birth you are so hungry and really don't want to eat the same thing all the time (even if it is at 2 am :)). But honestly, I think the more the better!
DeleteThanks for stopping by!
Just stumbled across your blog from Brittany's (www.prettylittleelm.blogspot.com)...anyways I am due with our first little girl on Friday so I have LOVED reading through your blog and your tips :) Very helpful and encouraging!
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Congratulations!!! I know yall are so excited!!! I am glad you stopped by my blog! Hopefully there is some stuff here that will help. Please don't hesitate to ask if you have anything you are wondering about!
DeleteKatie, such practical advice. I know that you are being a help to a great deal of new moms.
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