Things I want to remember for whenever #2 comes along or advice to first time moms:
- Rest as much as possible before and after delivery
- Don't expect the baby to come on or before the "due" date
- Don't try to self induce, it'll happen when it happens...just rest!
- Keep communication up so family/visits know expectations
- Stock up on some diapers (some newborn, a couple 1's, maybe a 2 you can always exchange them if you need more of another) and a lot of wipes
- Keep receipts for anything baby related
- Don't have your last meal before going to the hospital be bagel bites and cake, even if it was your husbands birthday cake, it's just embarrassing :)
- While at the hospital let the baby sleep in the nursery at least once so you can get a little rest
- Bring comfy clothes like sweats, nursing top, etc
- Take all hospital room items (bathroom toiletries, diapers, wipes, etc) with you, they're yours
- Order each meal you can after delivery to regain energy
- Accept help for at least a week (hopefully 2) after delivery
- Get baby to enjoy being swaddled
- Get baby to sleep in their bassinet/crib
- Pump if/when you can so daddy can take a turn and feed baby while you sleep
- Be flexible and open (birth plan, family visits, advice, etc)
- Don't stress as much {especially about nursing}
- It's OK to cry (scared, happy, pain, relief, hormones)
- Remember your mom and your husband are your best friends***
- Smile at your baby as much as possible :)
