Here is a list of things that I think really helped and are still helping me out for being a mommy.
Helpful Hint #1
When you're at the hospital, ask for more of everything you are using there. They won't say no and if they do, 1. they are evil 2. didn't hurt anything
1. Nursing Tank Tops... I would get more of those than bras. I just wear a NTT and a cartigan or crosstop shirt and wha la. I have a few Nursing Bras but I think NTT's are the easiest way to go. You can also go to Walmart and get them...$10-15... DO IT!
2. Disposable Nursing Pads. I like the Medela disposable ones. I keep writing DISPOSABLE because I was thinking to myself..."wow I sure do use a lot of these, maybe I should get some reusable ones that I can wash." I decided that reusable nursing pads can go to hell after I had to rip them off my nipples, along with the tissue. OUCH... they definately didn't work for me, but hey maybe they will for you.
3. Nipple Cream. I don't think it matters what kind, but if they lactaction nurses come see you in the hospital... ask them for some and then the next day, ask again! Those little tubes can last a long time.
4. Cooling Nipple pads...they gave me some at the hospital too. When you get them, you'll thank who ever gave them to you.
5. Footed Sleeper Onesies. Yes outfits are cute, but um...you're gonna be tired as hell and not want to take off pants and tights to get through the 8th diaper you've changed that day. No, you aren't.
6. Facial cleansing clothes. It will save you time, freshen you up and you can clean your face anywhere.
7. A baby carrier or a sling. When you have energy to do things and your baby also has energy and won't go to sleep...throw them in there and 1. they will most like to calm down or go to sleep and 2. you can do things. Even if it is doing the laundry or dishes...it feels good to get things done.
8. Soothie Pacifier. I have nothing else to compare it to, but Cooper likes them and they work. You can put your finger in the little hole to help start them off sucking on it and I think that helps them.
9. Slippers and a Robe. Seriously, you'll thank me. middle of the night feedings...through them on, you need to be comfortable during the feeding too.
10. 3 or 4 blankets... don't get more than that. You just don't need more than that.
11. Read 'Your Baby's First Year' before you have your baby. Because you're gonna be tired and want to sleep on your free time. :)
12. My SON! Couldn't live without him, now that he is here. It is tough but one little smile will give you this incredible burst of energy.
13. DRINK tons of water. I seriously feel like I can't get enough. I also drink a v8 in the morning and OJ throughout the day... so I don't burn myself out on water.
14. Take your vitamins.
15. When you have energy, pre make a list of meals for the week or day. I also used to put snacks in ziplock bags and then grab one when I was alittle hungry (pretzels, almonds, rice cakes, etc.)
16. Stay Healthy. I was sick for about a week when Cooper was 5+weeks...not fun at all, at all.
17. Bundle Me Lite for your carseat...you don't need a blanket (another reason you only need a few)
Ok, Gotta get the Coopster from his 20 minute nap.. hhahaha SAD FACE. I'll add more later.
Gotta add a picture of Cooper, of course!
I also met a 4th cousin today and we hung out next to one another. I like her, she doesn't talk much though...soon we'll chit-chat.
I also met a 4th cousin today and we hung out next to one another. I like her, she doesn't talk much though...soon we'll chit-chat.
