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I think if I was to prepare for everything in life like I prepared for my child, I would be a very successful person. The unknown world of parenting was so scary that I read and read and asked around until my mind couldn't handle any more.
But if I could meet the me from a few months ago, this is what I would say to her.
You don't need a lot of baby stuff - especially clothes
The word 'receiving blanket' has become a family joke in our house because I kept on nagging my husband about not having a receiving blanket and the baby was due any minute.
Little did I know that we already had some in the house - four to be exact. Kids outgrow clothes fast and all those cute clothes you see in the stores, you don't need to buy. Keep things basic.
The bed, stroller, bouncer, play mats... are also not things you will need right away.
Having a baby will change you and your relationship with your partner
Running an errand will not be a simple task anymore. It will require planning. You will find yourself putting your child ahead of everything and thinking through everything.
And all those sweet times you spent alone with your partner will be on hold for a while until you get used to parenting and learn to dedicate time to yourselves.
It will change how you look at each other and it is up to you to make that change for the better.
Every child is different
Don't worry if your child is not hitting milestones like other children their age. Every child is different and will grow at their own pace.
The first three months will be tough
You will be sleep deprived, cranky, tired and leaking fluids from everywhere but it will all be alright.
You need a mummy friend
Befriending someone who has gone through this process will come in handy. You can call them at ungodly hours and ask if the color of your baby's poop is normal or if the yellow spit up is just milk. (Thank you Jane!)
Three benefits of having a mummy group
Whether you are a first-time mum or not one thing you can benefit from is a mother's group. There you find rich information and valuable companionship among many other things from other mums like you.
It would be nice if you could meet in person once in a while but with our crazy schedules these days, things like Whatsapp groups (as much as the notifications can be annoying) and group video calls have made conversations easier right from the comfort of your home.
You will learn new things everyday
Experience is a good teacher and mums have plenty of that. Be it home remedies or weaning schedules, potty training or breastfeeding tips, birth control methods or weight loss, you learn from each other every day. The best thing about this is that it is all for free.
Information sharing
I am a member of one mothers group on Whatsapp (set up by Mums Village) and I came to learn from that group that you can get diapers from the manufacturer at wholesale prices delivered to your door.
Where else would you get such important tips to make your life easier? You are also exposed to job opportunities, events and new baby products.
Emotional support
In this hormone-fuelled journey of new motherhood, we need to stick together and give support with no judgment.
Only a mother will understand why you are crying about the baby refusing her bottle or your favourite bra not fitting you anymore.
WARNING
Choose your groups wisely.
Have someone responsible lead the group conversation.
join