As I sit back and reflect on the last year I just cannot believe how fast it has come and gone. The saying is true that minutes can seem slow but the months go by so fast. Tripp has taught me so much in such a short 12 months. These months have taught me patience, empathy and to be more care free. My type A personality has definitely been challenged but in a good way!
So, I thought to wrap up twelve months of motherhood, I would give you twelve tips I’ve learned.
- Don’t be afraid to take the baby out. It is a big production but it is worth your sanity to get out and about.
- You do you. Go with your gut. If you need to sleep train do it, if you want to give the baby a Paci do it. Don’t worry about the judgmental moms out there you need to do what is right for you and your family.
- Do something for yourself every once in awhile. Coffee with a girlfriend, a pedicure… anything to help relax and rejuvenate.
- THIS TOO SHALL PASS. The crying is HARD but I PROMISE it is temporary. Positive self talk is very important in those days with lots of crying and little sleep.
- Get a yeti cup. If not you will reheat your coffee 5 million times a day.
- Find a good support group. You will have a million questions and that group will save your sanity. DR GOOGLE IS THE WORST SUPPORT GROUP.
- Take a shower. Put the baby in a bouncer or a safe space and take 5 minutes for yourself. You will feel like a new person.
- Breastfeeding is HARD. I will say after 6 weeks for me it got significantly easier. We have made it to one year and I am so proud that we did! But do what you and your baby need. FED IS BEST.
- Buy yourself something cute. Those first days are hard but having a nice fresh (stretchy and comfy) outfit does a world of good.
- Continue taking your pre-natals and have lab work done to make sure all your levels are good…. turns out I was vitamin D deficient and once I started taking supplements I started feeling SO much better!
- Ask for help. Even if it is just for 30 minutes when you need a break you need a break.
- The kitchen doesn’t have to be spotless. This is the hardest lesson for me… they say to sleep or rest when the baby is resting but I tend to try to tackle the never ending to do list. I have tried my best to learn that it is ok if the house isn’t perfectly clean for one day or if the laundry waits an extra day. The stress is NOT worth it. Spend this time with the family and worry about the chores another time. Honestly, sticking to a schedule has really helped me to not feel overwhelmed by the amount of things to get done in a day!
What are your tips for first year moms?
XOXO Gabbing Ginger
PS Aren’t are pictures the cutest?! Shoutout to photo guru Chandi!
PPS Here are the outfit details: floral dress [under $25!], Cold Shoulder Top, Jeans, Sandals.
