To the new mums (and my mum-to-be friends)
I have a number of friends who are going to experience motherhood for the first time soon and I can't help but feel excited yet a little nervous for them. While the memories of the first year of being a new mum are still fresh in my head, I thought I'll write this down - for the new mamas and the mamas-to-be:
Get ready to fall in love - this was a quote from a friend and it's beautifully put. You might surprise yourself by how much love you have in you to give.
The first days, weeks, and months is not a pretty period...it will be long and mentally, physically, emotionally exhausting, but, it gets easier. 3 months seems to be the magic number!
It is ok to reject visitors and tell them to give you and your family time and space if and when you need it.
Celebrate the small wins. The first walk outside of the house. The first trip to your local cafe/coffee shop. The first time they sleep for more than 3 hours at a go. They all add up. One day you might look back and surprise yourself by how much you've grown as a person and as a mother.
Everyone will have an opinion to share (including this!) but remember - ultimately you have the right to decide what is best for you and for your baby.
Happy mama = happy baby. Care for your needs first where possible and you will be in a better position to care for your little one.
Breastfeeding can be difficult (despite how I thought it's easy given it's the most natural thing to do) so please do not hesitate to get support if you need to.
Enjoy the little things...they go by so quickly. The first time they discovered their fists. The first time they smiled. Actually these milestones probably only matter to you/parents but that's all it matters and what It should be about.
"Done is better than perfect". Embrace imperfections here and there... it makes life just that bit easier.
They will test your patience to the limits. But a smile from them generally makes up for everything :)
And when all else fails, remember that, this too, shall pass.
Image source: Pinterest