One of the things I love about Twitter and the Blogosphere is the many friends that I've made. Yes, there are people that I have met via blogs and Twitter but never met in real life (IRL) that I consider my friends. Call me crazy. I did meet my husband via the internet, so hush if you think these can't be real friendships.
One lovely friend that I met via Twitter is Miriam, and she is having a baby! So this is a virtual baby shower for her and "George," as they call the baby. No gifts required. However, she's a first time mom and would love to hear some tips and advice that might help her in her parenting journey.
Miriam is 32 weeks pregnant. Here's the latest update on George and how the pregnancy is going (you MUST click over, she has a great photo and is rocking a cute baby bump).
Here's my advice for Miriam as she enters this new stage in her life (or any new parent for that matter!):
Trust your parenting instincts and find what works for you and your family. Just because a baby book says something or recommends something else does not mean that it will work for you.
Some baby gear that I am so glad that we bought (other than the obvious car seat and stroller): a ring sling and mei tai - Ladybug has always been a cuddler and loves being close, so babywearing was a great parenting choice for us.
And what to take in your hospital bag: lip balm and moisturizing lotion!
Now it's your turn! Share your words of wisdom, favorite baby gear, what she MUST HAVE items in her hospital bag, or whatever else you think she needs to know.
Photo Credit: stock.xchng
What a great idea!
ReplyDeleteMy tip is:
"When people offer to help you - let them! And as hard as it is to believe, the little guy really will grow up quickly."
My favorite item (besides disposable diapers) would have to be the swing. It takes up a lot of room, but it saved our lives a few times. If you choose to bottle feed at any point, the playtex bottles with the disposable drop in liners are fantastic!
And to take to the hospital...if you're going to have an epidural, something to do or read. Either way, something for your husband to snack on so he doesn't pass out. =)
This is so sweet! Thank you, Heather, for hosting this, and to everyone, thanks for the tips!
ReplyDeleteLots of love, Miriam!
ReplyDeleteHospital must haves (that I ended up LOVING during my labor):
Beautiful lighting (for me it was a deep pink paper lantern - soft, comforting light - NO creepy fluorescents. Sounds weird, but it made all the difference for me. Paper lanterns ROCK.)
A scent warmer with your favorite essential oils: I love lavender (calming), peppermint (energizing). Some others: sweet orange, jasmine, chamomile.
For when you come home: Remember that God picked this baby out just for you, and you for him/her. Books and advice *can* be big help, but if you listen very closely, I believe that God puts in you an instinct for know just what is right for your family. You and Daniel are such great parents already.
xoxo Julie
Oh, where to start!
ReplyDelete1. Don't buy things just because you're "supposed" to have them (and always try to buy used or get things through freecycle if possible!) We bought a brand-new swing for something like $70, but after she was a month and a half old or so, she stopped wanting to use it. The Bumbo seat we got for free? She still loves it. So be choosy!
2. Don't get dismayed and throw out half your pre-pregnancy clothes at 2 months postpartum, thinking "I'm so fat, I'll never fit into that again!" because you'll lose the weight, and then you'll want them back. Ask me how I know!
3. Relax. Let people help you. Don't worry about cleaning the house or keeping up with the laundry or serving gourmet meals right away. (Though if you're cloth diapering, you might want to keep up with those!) People will understand, and having a new baby is such a joyous time--don't waste it stressing.
Boy, sometimes I feel like I have so many tidbits to pass along that were helpful to me that I don't know which ones to choose. Here's one that I used a lot. It's how to tell if your baby is warm enough when sleeping. If the baby has his arms down by his sides, he's too cool and needs more blankets. If he has them up at a comfortable place around his cheeks or chin, he's just right. If he has them all stretched out, arms straight and above his head, he's too warm. Mom told this to me, and it has proven true and reliable.
ReplyDeleteHi Miriam - At the hospital, make sure you bring socks and hard candy. I've had 2 babies and I would have to say the best advice someone gave me was "sleep when the baby sleeps". I know it sounds too simple but it's so true. Especially in the first couple weeks. Your body just went through labor, really really hard work and it needs to rest and recuperate. I know you are making meals you can freeze, that's going to help, but don't forget to ask for help from your nearby family and friends. And enjoy him because they grow SO fast.
ReplyDeleteWe couldn't have survived without our bouncer. My daughter had reflux and slept upright in her bouncer seat for 6 months.
Good advice so far!
ReplyDeleteMy best tidbit is to write down all the funny stuff that he will do or say. You think you will remember it, but it is easier than you think to forget. I find little post its in books and in drawers sometimes that say things like, Matthew pronounces mosquito like spa-gee-toe. I love finding those. I should be more organized but I am just glad that I write it down. :)
Congratulations on your blessing!
Thank you, everyone, for all the "gifts"!! Such helpful and good advice :)
ReplyDeleteHere's my advice: I know everyone tells you this, but SLEEP when Baby sleeps! Also, I ditto the "TRUST your instincts" You will be your child's greatest advocate for some time to come, ask questions, alot if need be, follow up and push the issue if you disgree. Yes, other people may think you are nuts, but hey, sticks and stones.
ReplyDeleteSome baby gear that I am so glad that we bought I LOVED LOVED LOVED my Boppy! It made BF so much easier, plus we just used it to cuddle sometimes. LIFESAVER!
And what to take in your hospital bag: Chapstick, Socks, and some yummy smelling shampoo, a real pick me up even after you get home. (On those days that you actually remember to take a shower)
Enjoy! And remember that there is no right or wrong way, you just have to find what works for you!
My tip... CALL ME. I love you, I have 3, and if you ever need advice, want to brag, or just need to vent (which you will, BELIEVE ME), I'm here :)
ReplyDelete