Top 10 Things I've Learned After Having a Baby

1. Support is more important than you will ever think
I'm a pretty independent person, some may say stubborn. Whatever I am is irrelevant. What everyone else is, is important. So many people have offered me support in so many ways - being here to take care of Jack, emailing words of wisdom, commenting on photos and this blog. All these generous offerings of their time are precious and although I can't get back to everyone just yet, it's SO appreciated.

2. Breastfeeding is SO much harder than a 5 hour labour!
I've managed to run up against every challenge involved in the process and am still determined to make this work. Who knew cabbage leaves would be my saving grace. Well, that and a very wonderful doctor at a breastfeeding clinic here who also gave me new antibiotics and cream.

3. Docs and nurses dedicated to the baby field are fantastic
Everywhere I have turned the medical staff in this city have been above and beyond my expectations almost every time. From the delivery team and post-delivery staff at the Foothills hospital, to the breastfeeding clinic, to the public health nurses and the early start line for the Calgary Health Link. Everyone has helped me and gone the extra mile to ensure I got the help I needed.

4. You have to lean forward when breastpumping
That's bullshit and I highly recommend working on getting a strong back before getting pregnant. It will help immensely later on. Also, rent a good pump for the first month from www.weefeed.com, they deliver right to your house and it's run by a Calgary Mom working from home - help support our local small business. The owner is a sweetheart too. :)

5. Get a breastfeeding chair that is supportive.
I've found those old office chairs (before ergonomics came along) are the best, but don't have one unfortunately.

6. Pampers Swaddlers kick Huggies ass
At least thet fit babies under 7lbs much better.

7. Nursing pads matter
The La Leche League's disposable nursing bra pads are #1. You can get them at Walmart and fit perfectly.

8. Showers are a want, not a need
You won't believe how taking care of your own basic necessities are second to what baby needs and wants. The only reason I remember to eat and drink at this stage is because baby needs the nutrition. Well, that and the fact that my bestest Mom is here to make sure I do just that! :)

9. Body awareness is a beautiful thing
After all the docs and nurses checking all of your 2000-parts, you won't care who sees what any more. It's liberating, actually.

10. Time flies, cherish the moments
It's amazing how the days fly by and you haven't managed to accomplish everything you hoped that day. I've learned to set the bar low and if anything else gets done, it's a bonus. I've tried to keep taking lots of pics and video because I know it will be hard to remember these days and believe Master Jack was that small, innocent and precious.

Signed,
A woman who thought she knew it all. And then was proved wrong. ;)