from LittleONE Magazine

A Little Look At Winter

A Little Thought: Unfounded Fears

Big brothers love (see point 4)!  Photography by Kate Monotti

We do tend to worry unnecessarily a lot of the time, wouldn’t you say?  And when I say ‘we’, I mean ‘me’.  You may recall a recent post here where I was so concerned about how on earth I could possibly love anyone as much as my eldest son (eldest son, that is still weird to say!)  Everyone offered beautiful, helpful advice and assured that yes indeedy, there just IS enough love to go around.  Whilst it put my mind at ease, I was still a little skeptical to say the least.

So, now that I am a few weeks in with Number 2, here are a few stresses that I had that (so far) haven’t eventuated!):

1.  There wouldn’t be enough love to go around.  Wow.  Did I get THAT one wrong!  As mentioned, I wrote about my concerns in this post and I was really concerned that no one would ever quite match the amazing amount of love that I had for my firstborn.  Everyone said that your heart just grows…and there is more love…and you know what?  Spot on.  I can’t believe how much I love Number 2…just as much as Number 1…but in a different way.  Turns out Mum and Dad were telling the truth after all!

2. I would drop my bundle.  Often.  OK, so I am not going to lie here.  There have been moments that have been tough.  The tears and overly hormonal reactions to the smallest things happened just like the first time.  Breastfeeding was still hard and still hurt to start with (dammit, I was so hoping it would be easier second time around!)  Stressful days have still happened.  But somehow, I am not as stressed this time.  And I am so, so aware that the bad days (and the good ones) are over before you blink, so you have to enjoy every second.

3. That it would all be too hard - harder than the first time in fact.  I was really, really worried that having a baby and a toddler would be awful.  I clearly didn’t give the toddler enough credit…or me for that matter.  As with the point above, perhaps my perspective has changed a little?  Or perhaps having two babies makes my priorities a little clearer?  Or maybe (most likely) my expectations were SOOOO low, that it has all been a pleasant surprise!  There have been days when I thought I would never get out of the house with everyone dressed and bums clean, but overall, it really hasn’t been as awful as I thought it would be.

4. That Number 1 would get jealous/bored/annoyed with Number 2.  Now, I am SURE that this is still to happen…or at least there will be moments when it will.  I am totally ready for it though, so I am more OK with this worry than the others.  To date though, the only complaint that I have (if you can call it that) is there is a little TOO much love…which means wanting a little too many cuddles.  I don’t want to say no to cuddles, not ever, but the frustration of getting Number 2 to sleep, only to have Number 1 pipe up with ‘I want a cuddle!’ is well and truly growing.  Will be interested to see how we go on that front as time goes on…

Overall though, I must admit, it is amazing.  I have this little family now, which is such a beautiful thing.  I can’t quite believe how much love I have inside me…when I look at my two baby boys and my beautiful husband, I am so grateful for them all.  I mostly feel very lucky!

What about you guys?  What were you most worried about when having a baby (or number 2, 3, 4 or more!)??  And did any of those concerns actually eventuate?

- Amy xx

A Little Thought: D Day!

So, today is my due date.  My face isn’t puffy, my belly is still quite high, no little niggles in the belly…yup, safe to say that this baby isn’t arriving today, or possibly anytime soon in fact.  I’ve read all about it, and I know that your estimated due date is exactly that - an estimate.  And actually, given that everyone’s cycle (and body, and baby) is completely different, that estimate is actually within a month, more so than a week or two.  So, you can have your baby no worries at all a few weeks either end of that big date.

I have quite a few friends who have their bubs two or three weeks early…every time!  So, going over with number one should have been a good indication that my body and my babies like the incubation time.  And yet, I am still crossing fingers and toes for a day or two or early…or at least right on time this time around.

It’s true, I am impatient, but I also want to MEET this little person!  Smell them, cuddle them in my arms…and possibly lie flat on my back for more than one minute without feeling ill.  I am under no illusions that you not only give over your body for the duration of your pregnancy, but also for the months after whilst you recover, regain nutrients and, for some people, breastfeed.  So, the sooner I can move on to the ‘fourth trimester’ the happier I will be!  I so wish I was one of those people who loved being pregnant (glowing and shiny and all that jazz) but alas, I am not.  I much prefer the pain of my sleep deprivation to be out rather than in!  So, I will continue to be impatient, and complain to my poor husband about my sore hips, and varicose veins, and fluid-filled feet, and the ongoing pinch in my sacrum, and the fact that I have worn the exact same outfit for two weeks straight…whilst I wait some more for this very special little person to arrive.

So what about you??  Did you deliver early or late?  And if your baby was overdue, how did you cope with those LOOOOONG days that followed the official due date?

- Amy xx

Packing For The Arrival - Bubba’s Bag

1. Huggies Newborn Nappies / 2. Bonds Baby Vests / 3. Eeni Meeni Sleeping Sack / 4. Nature Baby Organic Beanie / 5. Babu Organic Scratch Mittens / 6. La Toriana Cable Knit Blanket / 7. Cheeky Little Soles Socks / 8. Natursutten Pacifier / 9. Huggies Newborn Wipes / 10. Bebe By Minihaha Romper / 11. Infa Turn A Tot Car Seat

Not wanting to forget about the whole REASON for going to hospital in the first place – the baby!  Now, there isn’t much that they need for those first few days (apart from you, really) but it is still nice to introduce your things in those early days.

1.     Nappies – Some hospitals will supply you with newborn nappies, but I was quite particular in what I wanted to use, so I brought along my own.  If you want to use cloth nappies, you will especially want to get into the swing of things from day 1.  With disposables, even the biggest of bubs will want newborn nappies for a week or two.

2.     Singlets – You can never have enough singlets…right through until your little people are around one or two really.  It is the perfect way to add an extra layer and keep them warm and comfortable.  Minimal tags and labels are the way to go, and a nice, soft cotton.

3.     Growsuits or sleepsacks – I, personally, am a fan of sleep sacks and that is what I will packing this time around too.  I like the idea that they can still feel skin touching skin on their little legs, and it is much easier to change dirty nappies without totally stripping them off.

4.     Beanies – Depending on the environment, time of year and temperature you may or may not need a little beanie or two.  Often, it is too warm inside as bubs control their temperature through the tops of their heads (and under their arms, interestingly!) so you may not need any.  But, if they are a little colder than they should be, the best way to warm them up is whack one on…so pack a couple just in case!

5.     Mittens – A lot of bubs are born with long, long fingernails.  And you are always way too scared to get anything sharp near those teeny fingers for at least a couple of weeks.  Mittens will not only keep hands warm, but they will stop a newborn scratching their eyes out in those first few days and nights.

6.     Blankets/bunny rugs/muslin wrap – Flannel or pure wool in winter, muslin in summer and a soft, stretchy cotton the rest of the year.  A great wrap is the perfect investment – not to mention how handy swaddling is for settling a newborn and helping them sleep.

7.     Socks – Again with the warmth…and there is seriously nothing cuter than a teeny pair of socks for a newborn!

8.     Dummy – My first refused a dummy from Day 1, but I had some just in case and will again.  You never know.  I have a theory that some babies are suckers and some are not as much, so best not to fight it if a dummy is just what they need!

9.     Wipes – Again, the hospital will provide wipes but you might have a special preference for a brand or type and if so, be sure to bring your own.

10. Going home outfit – This is such a big day…your tiny new persons first trip out into the big, wide world and you want them to look extra cute.  So, a special, new outfit is a lovely thing to prepare before bub arrives (even if it most probably is the wrong size when you put it on).

11. Car seat! – Don’t forget this one or else you won’t be actually allowed to take your bub home!  Good to get it organised before the arrival…but otherwise, have someone take care of that before they come to collect you both.

So that is pretty much it…did I remember everything?  Or is there something else I need to include?  I think the only other thing that you can remember to take with you is an open mind, a sense of humour and the amazing knowledge that you are VERY clever for making a little person.  Let the fun begin!

- Amy xx

Packing For The Arrival - Mama’s Bag

1. L’Oreal Shampoo & Conditioner & GHD Straightener / 2. Garnier BB Cream & Maybelline Great Lash Mascara / 3. V Shaped Pillow / 4. Kleenex Cottonelle / 5. Libra Maternity Pads / 6. Bonds Maternity Briefs / 7. Cake Lingerie Dark Toffee Bra / 8. 1 In The Oven Henley / 9. Pigeon Breast Pads / 10. Avent BPA Free Nipple Shields & Lansinoh Nipple Cream / 11. Colgate Travel Pack

Yesterday, I covered my list of what I plan to pack in anticipation of Bubba #2’s arrival…what to pack in the bag for labour.

Today, I’m thinking of what I need to keep me sane and sorted for the few days that I get to hang with my newborn before heading home to reality!

1.     Shampoo/Conditioner/Straightener/Hairbrush – I know, I know.  It seems so vain to be worried about such trivial things when there is a gorgeous new bub to behold, but also be aware that there are LOTS of photos about to be taken of you.  On other people’s cameras.  And potentially loaded on facebook.  So, be kind to yourself and take the opportunity to look nice.  Also, when you get home, there will be less time for such selfish pursuits – so make the most of it!!

2.     Makeup – See above.  Nothing too much mind you, you don’t want to look like you are headed to a nightclub.  A little tinted moisturiser, lip gloss (see checklist #1) and mascara (waterproof, of course) will make you like all glowy and special.

3.     Pillow – Of course the hospital will give you as many as you like, but they are kind of scratchy and hard.  I took my v-shaped, feeding pillow in with me (which had been a good friend already in the last few weeks of my pregnancy) and will do so again.  It is great to help you prop up in bed when guests arrive, and helps get you in the correct positioning for feeding when you get home…and hospital beds are not very comfortable, so the more you can make it yours, the better.

4.     Loo Paper – Again, clearly provided…but again, also a little scratchy.  I am Kleenex cotonelle girl and when I will also potentially have stitches and a few haemorrhoids that won’t move on, you want everything in that area to be as soft as possible.

5.     Maternity pads – Again, we want softness!  Something that will take the pressure off and provide adequate protection for what is clearly your body making up for missing nine months of periods.

6.     Black undies – See above.  Maternity pads are not failproof.  Get some nice, comfortable undies (I love the ones made from super soft material and minimal seams) that you can wash and wear over and over for those first few weeks.

7.     Maternity bras – It can be pretty hard to get excited about maternity bras before you actually have a baby…although some of you might have been super organised and been wearing them towards the end of your pregnancy as well.  They just seem so….big!  But, believe me, don’t underestimate the importance of a good maternity bra.  It will offer support (when your boobs are at their heaviest and sorest) and make life LOTS easier for feeding (especially when you are half asleep).  And, given that you will possibly be leaking everywhere for weeks, you will be wearing them day and night, so you want it to be comfortable and do the job – so invest!  Look for one that offers great support but has no pesky underwire to interfere with your milk ducts - like this gorgeous one from Cake.

8.     Comfy clothes for feeding – I thought I would just need some cute pyjamas for my hospital stay…after all, isn’t that what you wear in hospital?  Apparently not.  It seems that cute and comfy sweats are the order of the day these days, and it is actually pretty rare to see a mum cruising around a maternity ward in actual pj’s.  Some nice stretchy yoga style pants (a bit like the ones you wore to the hospital) that will accommodate your still rather large tum, some singlets that make for easy feeding and some long sleeve tops that also allow easy access to boobs (like this cute Henley Top) is all you need.

9. Breast pads – You will be amazed at how many of these you go through!  Once your milk comes in, if you decided to breastfeed, it is quite overwhelming how much of it there is.  You are feeding on one side and it feels like Niagra Falls on the other.  There is only one solution: breast pads.  They need to be changed often to avoid that stale milk smell, but they will help stop all of your tops growing two large, circular wet patches.  If you get a padded maternity bra, you will have moments (a little later on) where the padding will do the job, but to start with you need these!

10. Nipple shields & cream – There are a few schools of thought regarding these two products and some people are quite against anything that hinder feeding but I tell you what, I would have been LOST without both.  I used nipple shields on and off for the first three weeks, just to take the edge off the pain, and my nipples would have been cracked, bleeding messes without the cream.  I am told it is not as hard second time around, but can still be painful to start, so I am not taking any chances!

12. Toothbrush & Toothpaste – Everywhere I go I forget these two items.  Clearly important,so whack them on the list!

Anything else I forgot??  What did you take to hospital that you couldn’t do without?

Packing For The Arrival - The Labour Bag

1. Inner B Pregnancy Organiser / 2. Acca Kappa Lip Balm / 3. Penny Scallan Apple Drink Bottle / 4. Apple iPhone / 5. Canon Digital SLR / 6. Milly & Jock Hair Bands  / 7. iPod Nano / 8. Birth Skills by Juju Sundin / 9. Allens Retro Mix (sugar hit!) / 10. Bella B Relaxed Pants & Singlet

Not long now and my due date is here…eek!  Just one week to go now (although if I go two weeks over again, there is three weeks still!) and I have realised that (just like the first time) I am getting closer and closer to the impending arrival and am yet to back a bag.

So, what to pack??  I remember from my first visit that I didn’t actually open my bag much throughout the course of my five day hospital stay…so much of what I packed was somewhat pointless.  And for those people who stay overnight…or not at all, well – it is almost not worth worrying about! 

However, I like to be organised and a bag will be packed for birth, baby and me.  First things first, let’s start with the Birth Bag.

1.     Paperwork (inc. doctor’s info, medicare, health cover, etc) – it seriously amazed me that you arrive at hospital and have to ‘check in’ first with all your appropriate paperwork.  It is not like the movies AT ALL where you are rushed in screaming and yelling and baby half out (well, some people might find that, but I didn’t!)  When I arrived at the hospital, my contractions were about two minutes apart…which gave me about 110 seconds to speak normally and rationally before the next one rolled in.  So, between them, we filled out paperwork, found a bed, had the option to change and was examined to see ‘where things were at’.  And, once all this was sorted we THEN wandered down to the birthing suite.  Not quite what I had expected, but most civilised all the same.

2.     Lip balm – I used the gas, on low because of the horrid taste and feeling, for about five minutes whilst I begged for something stronger.  And I can’t believe how dry my lips were after the birth…and for days after!  I can’t imagine how dry someone would be who used gas through their whole labour!  All that breathing and huffing and puffing and crying (yep, lots of that too) makes you very dehydrated and I cannot emphasise enough how much you will appreciate a quality, juicy, lip balm.

3.     Water bottle – see above.  Obviously, hospitals are very forthcoming with the water, but if you have a bottle that you are particularly happy with then by all means, bring it along!  Labour does weird things to you, including making taste, smell and textures all a little ‘heightened’ so sometimes it is good to have something familiar.

4.     Phone & charger – now, a lot of phones these days have fabulous cameras, so you can kill two birds with one stone here.  However, the important reason to bring your phone along is to send out that text message to everyone letting them know your little person has arrived!  My first arrived at 5am and we couldn’t stand having to wait for a decent hour to be able to let everyone know!  It’s also handy to have everyone’s numbers in the phone before you go in to labour too, to ensure that you haven’t forgotten anyone important whilst your brain is still working relatively well.  I also appreciated having my phone with me so that I could receive texts regarding visitors, and call my mum a million times a day.  Oh, and don’t forget your charger!!

5.     Camera – of course!  Now, not everyone is keen to have labour photos taken.  I actually didn’t even THINK about the camera and had to send my husband digging for it as I was about to start pushing.  Great timing.  I have a girlfriend who was really keen to visually record her birth and had an extra family member in throughout the labour just to take pics…so something to think about prior to the event.

6.     Hair bands – if you have long hair, it is bound to get sweaty and in the way before your bub arrives.  And, given that a photo is bound to be taken after the many hours of panting, breathing and rubbing your head into a pillow or your birth partner (I think I did both!) then the sooner you can get it out of the way, the better!

7.     Music – I did bring my iPod along for my first birth, but it didn’t come out of the bag at all…not even post-birth.  It seemed that I am actually more the silent type when it comes to birth and didn’t want any distractions to speak of.  However, I appreciate that some people are VERY sound/music oriented and some calming beach sounds might help breathing, or some really rocking tunes would be just the ticket when you are trying to make it through transition!

8.     Birth plan (books, notes) – most women will have a ‘thing’ in the lead up to preparing for labour.  A book, affirmations, notes from a friend, etc.  These might be in your head, or on paper, but it is great to be able to make some notes beforehand if there are certain elements of the birth that are really important to you and you want to ensure that even if you aren’t feeling yourself at the time, things are done the way you hope.  My birth plan was ‘to have a baby’.  Not very complicated and quite open for interpretation!  However, I loved the book Birth Skills by Juju Sundin and I made my husband read it beforehand.  It offered some great advice that was invaluable in my labour (such as requesting to lay on your side when you have an epidural so as not to slow things down) and it will definitely be going in the labour bag this time around too.

9.     Snacks – I was lucky, it was the middle of the night and things went rather quickly, so no time for snacks.  However, if you are in labour for many, many, many hours (which some women certainly are!), it can pay to make up a little Tupperware container of goodies to get you through. 

10. Comfy outfit to get there – oh, I had very grand plans.  A cute little nightie that would preserve my modesty during labour, allow me to be comfortable and also have that all important skin to skin contact and first feed when bub arrived.  As it happened, we were rushed into the birthing suite and didn’t actually OPEN the bag before being stripped down and ultimately wearing nothing but a hospital gown as I tried to walk the floor.  Sigh.  Again, this time, I will try for the cute nightie/birthing ensemble.  But I won’t expect anything!  It is good, however, to have a little outfit put aside (for me it was yoga pants, a singlet and long sleeve Henley top) that enables you to at least ARRIVE at the hospital in a comfortable state and somewhat decent.  Ensure that it isn’t your fave though…there is way too much opportunity for mess!

Lots of websites recommend all sorts of things for your birth partner…but seriously?!?  In my opinion, they either need to sort themselves out prior (have their own labour bag packed!) or suck it up.  You are the one going through it all, at worst they will get bored or hungry.  If they need to nick out to a vending machine at a moment approved by you, then so be it!  Having to worry about their wellbeing is one extra thing that you shouldn’t be thinking about at this time!

What do you think?  Any necessities that I missed?  Things that you could not have done without that I might well need?

So, that is one down, two bags to go…I will post about my bag tomorrow…and the baby’s on Friday…unless of course, by some miracle, I am having said baby!

- Amy xx

Kids Instyle Sydney: Love Mae

Meet Peta from Love Mae!  Oh, the gorgeous, charming, whimsical-ness that is Love Mae!!  What started as unique and delightful fabric decals has grown in to a fully fledged range of beautiful linen, decor, dinnerware, wrapping and more.  We love their fab melamine range of kid’s plates, bowls and cups, but check out these lovely sleeping bags…such great fabrics and super soft to boot.  Visit www.lovemae.com.au to see the full range and stockists.

Kids Instyle Sydney: Incy Interiors

Meet Kristy from Incy!  Oh, how we love Incy!  Talk about gorgeous, quality items for children - such beautiful furniture.  We are especially loving their new Egg rocking chair…farewell ugly feeding chair…this would make the perfect colour and style statement, not to mention the comfort factor.  The kids sized Egg chairs are perfectly comfortable for adults, so this is really the ultimate (complete with high back and great, contoured arm rests)…sigh…add it to the list!  Head to www.incyinteriors.com.au to see more of the range.