Outfit details- My jumpsuit - Target Available in mustard and black, front buttons are easily nursing friendly. NOT maternity. Wearing a size small. Less than $25 My headband- Amazon comes in a pack of 6 different leopard prints and under $13 Nora’s outfit- Target under $18 Nora’s turban- Etsy $17 Hi friends, Happy Friday! Ive been enjoying my time at home with Nora these last few weeks now that we are somewhat settled in a routine. A routine as in she eats sleeps and repeats. Sounds easy right?There's more to it than just that. For example, Nora has colic (gas) pains at times no matter how many times she's been burped after feeding. Something I can't seem to recall with Jordan, my 16 month old son. You would think I wouldn't be as clueless having that we just experienced the newborn life last year, but every baby is different. Also, the first month almost seems like you’re in survival mode with sleep deprivation and frequent feedings and trying to keep up with regular life stuff in between. As a matter of fact, I am typing this while nursing Nora as I wait on my car to get serviced at the dealership. So here is my survival guide for my new parent friends who are about to start this journey. Disclaimer: I am by no means a pro but hope that my experience can help someone who may be going through the same. Do remember, you are not alone in this journey. When a friend asks “How can I help”, tell them what you need. Whether it’s a hot shower or meal, or help with laundry or dishes. Or even an adult conversation and just a mental break. Lean on your loved ones and ask for support- they are there to help. Reach out to fellow mom friends. Use all your resources. And I dont mean this in terms of asking what breastpump works best but topics such as the postpartum blues. Hormones are a b word and its important to talk to someone if you feel down or low. Ok, with that being said, here is what I have learned from my first month with Nora. Here we go! FEEDING- Before I start on this mammoth topic, FED IS BEST. Doesn't matter if you are feeding your baby formula or breastmilk. I was a formula fed baby and turned out okay for the most part ( I kid). With Jordan, we had latching challenges so I pumped and bottle fed until he was 7 months while supplementing with formula from time to time towards the end. With Nora, I have been nursing her for the last 7 weeks and pumping and freezing for when I return to work. Nora feeds about every 2-3 hours. At night she feeds every 4-5 hours which allows this tired mama to get some much needed shut eye. These lactation cookies are not only a great snack but I also like to believe that they help with milk production. Not to mention, they are dangerously delicious so you have been warned. For times when there is a leakage situation, these nursing pads have been a savior. Trust me I speak from experience, I have ruined too many nursing bras and pajamas by not wearing nursing pads. Speaking of nursing bras, I bought these in every color available and they were great during pregnancy as well as post pregnancy. While we are on the topic of nursing - nipple cream was one of my best friends in the first few weeks. Nobody tells you how much it hurts. Or maybe they forget. I mean even the lactation consultants say “If it hurts, you’re not doing it right”. Anyways, I’m here to tell you, it gets better after the first few weeks. Until then, lather on the nipple cream after feedings and take warm baths. I have mustered up the courage to get more comfortable with nursing in public thanks to this cover from Amazon. It doubles as a car seat cover as well and the breathable soft material is perfect. Also, not to sound like a mom and I know this is such a no brainer but drink your water. I’m serious, be sure to stay hydrated at all times regardless of if you are nursing the baby or not. Your body needs to be replenished of all the water post delivery. I had a few dizzy spells due to low blood pressure after having Nora because I forgot to drink enough fluids. I keep a water bottle at my bedside. If your baby has colic pains, consult your doctor first. For Nora we have used gripe water, mylicon and these drops and they work. As far as I can recall, we had to give Jordan the same and thankfully after the first 3 months, the colic pains went away. Nora was congested a few weeks ago and and this little remedies saline spray seemed to do the trick. Also keeping her slightly elevated when she slept, helped. Again, consult your pediatrician if the little one has a stuffy nose. I only speak from experience and NOT medical expertise. SLEEP- Let’s be real friends, there’s not much sleep involved in the first month. I mean the baby sleeps plenty ( something about 16+ hours) when they’re not feeding. I’m talking about the parents. But that too gets better with time I promise. The first few nights at home are definitely the hardest. Next thing, it doesn’t matter if you’re sleeping in separate rooms, co sleeping, or in the bassinet- you know what’s best for your child and there is no right or wrong way to do it. Jordan slept in the bassinet until 4-5 months and then we transferred him to his own crib when he outgrew it. Nora is currently sleeping in the same bassinet. We used a head shaping pillow for Jordan and trying the same for Nora in the bassinet. We probably won’t start sleep training her for another few months depending on her feedings. BABY WEARING - So I have been in the market for a good baby wrap that does not require a 20 step process to secure the baby. Nora is a cuddler ( not complaining, but mama’s got things to do). My friend highly recommended this and based on hers and other online reviews, I'm sold. The process is fairly simple and its also nursing friendly. I will be receiving it soon in the mail and will gladly share my feedback with anyone interested. Mom friends, if you’re reading this, share your favorite wrap/carrier too please in the comments. That’s all I’ve got for now. I’m sure I've missed a million things on here so I apologize for that,but I tried to share all my knowledge that I've gained this time around, in the first month. Wishing all you moms and dads the best of luck and much sleep (ha!). As cliche as it sounds, savor every moment and snuggle. They really do grow up too fast. Thanks for reading. Happy weekend! Sophia
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