From Me to You: Tips For New Moms!

Are you a soon to be first time mom and freaking out? Heck, are you a second..or third..or fourth time mom and freaking out?   Well here are some tips to help you relax & put your mind at ease.

• If breast feeding. It will hurt. It will be stressful. DON'T give up! I wanted to quit multiple times with Madison but I stuck it out & we made it past a year! 

• White noise is your friend.  A sound machine, window fan, or the tv on static will help your baby sleep soundly. With two loud toddlers running around I have learned to use white noise more than ever to help the twins nap and sleep.

• You don't need to hold your baby all day long. It is okay to put them down. Not only will you be able to get stuff done but baby won't learn to rely on you holding him/her all. the. time.

• Start a night time routine in the hospital. We did this with the twins and they have been with out a doubt the best infant sleepers between all of our kiddos.

• Feed baby every two hours during the day. It will help establish a routine & you'll be sure they are getting enough food.

• Babies cry for a reason.  Diaper needs to be changed, they're hungry, they just want to be held, they're over stimulated, they're over tired, they have gas, they're constipated, they're teething...explore with your baby before letting them CIO.

• Don't panic. If you have checked your baby for all of the above in the last bullet and he/she is still crying and you're finding yourself frustrated; put baby in the crib & walk away for a little. Pull yourself together, count to 10, deep breathes, & go get your child. 

• Swaddle. Either learn to use swaddle blankets or purchase velcro swaddlers (like we did). I swaddle the twins during naps & at night for bed. Helping them feel tight & confined relaxes babies. 

• Newborns love black, white, & red objects! Print off a picture from the computer in black & white or purchase some infant play blocks. 

• Sleep when baby sleeps (if you have no other children). Get your rest when baby does! The dishes, laundry, & cleaning can wait.

• Rest when baby sleeps (if you have other children). It's hard to sleep when baby sleeps & watch your other children at the same time. So go ahead and sit on the sofa, put on your favorite tv show, and relax. You can still keep an eye on the other child(ren) while resting. 

Week One!

A week has already gone by since the girls were born and a lot of stuff has been happening! 

I ended up with a spinal head ache and went to the ER to get a blood patch done. It worked to calm the main head ache but I will still on occasion get a head ache during the day, caffeine usually helps. 

The girls have been to the hospital in town three times since we have been home. All three visits were to get blood taken from one of their feet to test their bilirubin levels. MacKenzie's was high the first two times but thankfully they are both out of the "no-no zone" now. 

MacKenzie getting her foot pricked (slept right through it!)

The girls also had a check up with Dr. Wood on Wednesday (the day after we got home). MacKenzie weighed 5lbs 10oz and Riley weighed 5lbs 11oz, nothing to worry about since they both were giving me problems with eating. They are pro's at it now though! MacKenzie took a little longer to understand the breastfeeding thing but she has it down pat now. Riley has been a great from the start but will give me problems at night.

Sleep has been great as well. I figured out a routine that will allow us 4-5hrs of sleep before the girls wake up to eat & then another 2-3hrs of sleep before they are up for the day. I give them a bath at least an hour before we plan to go to bed, pj's, cuddles, feedings right before we go up to bed, & then swaddle!

Some of Peter's family from down state came up to visit so all six of us went to say hello and have dinner! The kids got to hang out and play with their cousins for a bit which was so nice. 

Luke on the far left and Madison on the far right

MacKenzie and Riley with two of their cousins

Mother's Day I spent with family. The below was my present from the kids & I love it!

So overall the first week has been very eventful and has kept us occupied! The girls have been happy & healthy, Luke and Madison have been great with them, and I'm adjusting well(:

Riley & MacKenzie's Birth Story.

May 5th we became a family of SIX! Originally scheduled for an induction, which turned into a last minute scheduled c-section, we showed up to the hospital on May 5th at 6am.  I was brought to my room, given my gown to change into, they began setting up my IV & belly monitors. Planning on a c-section at 8:30am (babyB was breech) doctors and nurses came in introducing themselves explaining how they would be involved & what to expect. As the time got closer my main nurse Shelly brought in the ultrasound machine so Dr. Wood & Dr. Herbst could check the positions of the twins before the surgery.

Turns out babyB flipped! They still gave me the option of still keeping the c-section but I decided to opt out and attempt vaginal. They checked my cervix and my body was already progressing on it's own, another woo hoo moment! Dr. Wood broke babyA's water and then we just chilled out for a bit. I was feeling contractions but it was mostly pressure and the hardening of my belly more then pain. By 5cm I asked for the epidural in case babyB flipped after babyA was born and an emergency c-section would be needed, in which case I'd be put under if I didn't have the epidural. Talk about a nervous wreak! The thought of anything going into my back makes me cringe!! Overall it was better then I had thought it would be, just a tinge of pain when they numb the area and then pressure when they insert the spinal catheter. 

Well it turns out only half of my body got numb from the epidural, so I had a half natural delivery! When the contractions got closer together and I started getting the feeling to push Dr.Wood checked me (I was 9 1/2cm) and decided to start getting things ready for the OR where I would delivery the twins in case a c-section is needed. With the help of my husband Dr. Peter (because he had to put those scrubs on in the OR, he looked very professional hehe) they wheeled me into the room and began to prep. Adjust the bed, making sure all the tools were ready, and the nurses were prepped. We awaited Dr. Herbst and then I was able to start pushing!

Dr. Wood & Dr. Herbst were waiting for a contraction to start so I could start pushing. I told them I felt one, they told me to push. After 9 pushes Riley Lynn was born! I was able to take a break and wait for the next contraction. Once I felt the contraction I was able to push again and after 3 more pushes MacKenzie Rose was born 3 mins after her sister. Pushing out two was no difference then pushing out one in my opinion. The ring of fire is there with the first baby but you don't even notice it with the second (which is amazing ha!). Two happy and healthy baby girls! I had no tearing so no stitches were needed and the recovery has been amazing (kind of).  

I ended up with a spinal headache the day after we came home from the hospital. I had it during the hospital stay but it didn't fully hit me until we were already home. 

"Your brain and spinal cord are contained in a bag of fluid. The bag is called the dura and the fluid is called the cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF).When an epidural is given, a needle is used to inject local anesthetic just outside the dura.  If the needle passes through the dura accidentally, CSF can leak out.  When a spinal injection is given, a very fine needle is inserted through the dura deliberately. If too much fluid leaks out through the small hole in the dura, the pressure in the rest of the fluid is reduced. If you sit up, the pressure around your brain is reduced even more. This lowered pressure causes the typical headache."  

My headache got to the point where I was completely miserable and felt like I could barely function. Having two newborns and two toddlers you kind of need to function. Laying flat with a cold towel over my eyes was the only way to give me some comfort and even then my head still pounded terribly. We had an appointment for MacKenzie Wednesday morning to get checked for jaundice again so while there I went to the ER. The admitted me and gave me a gown. I signed the papers needed and about 2hrs later the anesthesiologist came in to perform the blood patch.

"In addition, if a person develops a spinal headache following a procedure, the anesthesiologist can create a blood patch with the person's blood to seal the leak. To administer a blood patch, the anesthesiologist inserts a needle into the same space as, or right next to, the area in which the anesthetic was injected. The doctor then takes a small amount of blood from the patient and injects it into the epidural space. The blood clots and seals the hole that caused the leak."

It hurt like hell, gave me worse pain in my lower back then the epidural did. I had to lay in the ER for an hour just to make sure the blood was distributed and the procedure worked. (Which is did thank gosh!) My lower back is still in pain but it's bearable and worth it since my head doesn't feel like it's going to explode.

Now we are in the comfort of our own home, relaxing and adjusting to life. Luke and Madison are absolutely in love with their sisters and are terrific little helpers. Maddie has declared herself the keeper of pacifiers until a baby cries, then she will put one in their mouth. The girls have been sleeping a lot during the day so I have started waking them every two hours for a diaper change and to eat. I'll tickle their little feet and play with them to keep them awake for as long as they can stand.  

  

This Weeks Appointments in Review.

    

I officially have 5 days until my induction. That means the girls have 4 days to come out on their own! This week has been full of appointments but thankfully I will have the weekend free before the big day. Laundry, organizing, scrubbing, dusting, and relaxing is my plan! The following is the run down of my appointments from this week:

Monday I had an appointment with an OB that will be helping with the delivery of the twins. If a C-section is needed he would be the one to perform it. He was super nice and listened to what I had to say. He was also able to check my cervix for dilation and it turns out I am already 2cm dilated and 90% effaced. 

Tuesday I had my last appointment with Dr. Wood before the induction. They hooked me up to the monitors and did my final NST, turns out BabyB is stubborn already! She was giving us trouble in the beginning and a little through out the test. Over all the girls looked good and the machine caught some of the contractions I've been having. I asked my final questions regarding the induction and we discussed the day. No food after midnight on Sunday, instead of a L&D room I will be delivering in the OR in case a c-section is needed, if all three of us are healthy and good to go we will be able to leave 24hrs after giving birth, and so on. 

Wednesday (today) I had an appointment with my SIL & BIL. My SIL is a massage therapist and worked on my pressure points to try and kick start labor so I don't have to be induced. My BIL is a chiropractor and was able to get all the kinks out before having the girls! I was told that my body is extremely relaxed and ready for labor. More relaxed then the last pregnant patient he had that went into labor the day after she got adjusted and her pressure points worked on! Let's hope that means I won't be posting anything tomorrow unless it's photos of the Riley and Makenzie.

Thursday I see Dr. Dolkart for my final ultrasound of the girls. I will make a completely separate post regarding that appointment with ultrasound photos. Let's hope both girls are still head down or that they arrive before I need to go to the appointment!  

If you have any questions regarding my experience with twin pregnancy or what could happen during labor/delivery feel free to ask! 

Mom 101

Whether you are a soon to be mom, first time mom, or mom to more then one child this post will help you and provide you with some tips! Most of these are links to my posts but a few are from other great websites I have come across.

Moms-To-Be

Postpartum Recovery Kit

Fighting Morning Sickness

Things to do Before You're Due

Packing Your Hospital Bag

Packing Your Spouse's Bag & Baby's Bag

My Sample Birth Plan

27 Pre-Baby Freezer Meals

For Moms

Recovering From a C-Section

Eating/Drinking While Breastfeeding

Introducing Baby & Dog

Postpartum Recovery Kit

Getting Kids To Sleep...Through The Night.

Introducing Solid Foods

Going From One Child to Two

Tips to Produce More Breast Milk

33 Week Appointment: Big News, Small News, and Some in Between!

Today I had my bi-weekly appointment to see Dr. Dolkart. It was definitely an informative and exciting one to say the least! See below!

*= see the bottom of the post

The Girls

The girls are measuring about 4.8 pounds each, give or take an ounce or two, which is fantastic! There are no issues or worries about them at all! Their belly's are measuring perfect and I got to see them practice breathing and swallow fluid during the ultrasound. 

Myself

The amniotic fluid is still great, no leaking at all. My cervix on the other hand is not behaving. While a normal cervix measures at 39 mine is now at 18. So due to my cervix being so short I had to receive a steroid shot* in my right butt cheek. NO. FUN. The needle wasn't bad but the medicine was like a rush of pain through my butt cheek which soon after went numb.

The Outcome

Tomorrow I will go to my OB's office to receive the second dose of steroids. Dr. Dolkart didn't put me on bed rest but did tell me to take it easy and to relax. At 36-37 weeks (if they don't come on their own) I will be induced. Identical twin pregnancies tend to have more complications after the 36 week mark which is why they plan to induce. 

So overall....the twins can arrive anytime within the next 3-4 weeks!
We are both excited but very nervous! 

*The steroid shot is to help the twins lungs develop in case of early delivery. The steroids cut the risk of lung disease and reduces a premature babies risk of dying by up to 40%. 

Recovering From a C-Section

(guest post from Rachelle)

Hey, I'm Rachelle. I had a natural birth with my son in 2010 and a scheduled c-section with my daughter in October 2013. Although it was planned I still went into labor the day before (seems my daughter didn't want to wait another day!), so lucky me I got to experience the joys of labor. My daughters stomach was measuring larger than it should have been which is why I had a scheduled c-section, they didn't want her to get stuck on the way out. So from my experience, here are some tips for recovering from a c-section.

Walking

You won't be able to get up and walk until hours (maybe even the next day). So when you are able to get up, take it slow! A nurse will be there to assist you the first few times. 

Pillow

Bring a pillow from home, maybe even a blanket (I did both). It's comforting to have since you will be in the hospital for about 3-4 days. I also recommend using a pillow to hold against your belly if you have to cough or sneeze within the first week, to help with the pain.

Shower Supplies

This may be a given, but bring your own shower supplies to use. It'll do wonders with how you feel!

Feeding Tip

If you breastfeed (or maybe even bottle feed), it will be more comfortable to hold baby football style so there's no pressure on your incision. 

Rest

Let the nurses take the baby to the nursery at nights, you need your rest. Either way you give birth it is tiring, but speaking from experience having a c-section is a way more painful recovery. If you decided to breastfeed make sure to tell the nurses to bring baby back when he/she gets hungry. 

Clothing

Bring a loose dress, maternity clothing, or big fitted sweatpants to wear home. You want anything that isn't tight around your belly.

Don't Get Upset

Try not to get upset at yourself for not doing anything around the house when you get home. I did because being a SAHM I do everything in the house, so for me not to do anything made me feel unaccomplished, which only drained me more. Don't feel that way! You just made a little human!

Ask for Help

You're going to need help, with basically everything. So ask some family and friends to come over not only to meet your new bundle of joy but to help with the laundry, dishes, cooking, and whatever else needs to be done.  If you have a church family, ask for meals! Our church family was a HUGE blessing.

If you have any thing to add please feel free to do so in the comments below! 

Tips To Produce More Breast Milk

For a lot of ladies being able to produce more breast milk is mainly mind over matter. If you have faith, are confidant, and relaxed you will be able to produce more. Unlike those mom's I just mentioned others just aren't able to produce and need a little help (nothing wrong with that!).

Tips To Produce More Breast Milk

1. Nurse, Nurse, Nurse!

Infants won't overeat when they breastfeed. It's a supply & demand process. If baby is hungry or shows signs of hunger feed him/her! An infants suck is stronger then a pumps suck, they will have a better chance pulling more milk then a pump.

2. Pump

Pumping before or after a nursing session will help produce more milk as well. Just be careful not to trick your body into over supply. 

3. Relax

Make sure the environment you are in is relaxing. Infants can detect stress & will become stressed themselves. If you have other children it may be difficult but try to give them a toy to play with or something to distract them. 

4. Lactation Cookies

A recipe such as these are yummy! Eating these cookies give you the nutrition you need to support your supply. It's recommended to eat one or two cookies a day.

5. Tea

Milkmaid Tea like this is a great way to increase supply. I find that a lot of the milkmaid tea's have horrible flavor but this brand is delicious. 

7. Diet

Adding 500 calories to your diet is recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Eating healthy won't only help your supply but it will make you feel better as well! 

8. Herbs

Fenugreek is always a GREAT way to increase supply, 2 tablets three times a day. Beware though, it does transfer into your milk and often gives infants gas. So if you start taking this and baby becomes restless and gassy this may be why.

Added by the readers:

9. Water
Keeping hydrated is a great way to keep milk production up. Drink, drink, drink!

10. Skin to Skin Contact

Postpartum Recovery Kit

When I first had my son I had no idea what to expect during and after labor. I especially didn't know what to expect once we arrived home. Was I going to be able to walk?! How bad is it going to hurt?  How long will it take to feel "normal" again? I had everything prepared at home for my son but nothing for myself. I think a kit like this is a must have for any pregnant woman, and what an awesome gift too! 

**NOTE: This is from my experience of two natural vaginal births. I have not experienced a c-section. If you have and have anything to add to the list please comment below and it will be added!**

Granny Panties

Maxi Pads

You will bleed for about 6 weeks (give or take, everyone is different) after giving birth. The bleeding is pretty heavy at first, so save your good underwear for after!

Tucks Pads

These will help the unlucky ones who get hemorrhoids after giving birth. I had them after my son but not my daughter. They are painful and if you aren't sure what is going on scary. 

Dermoplast Pain Relief Spray

Another aid after a vaginal delivery. The hospital provided this for me after my son, but when I had my daughter at a different hospital they did not. Going to the bathroom will hurt as will the area you just pushed a human out of. Use the water bottle to spray yourself off, pat dry, and spray yourself down there with some of this spray. You'll feel instant relief, enough to go "ahhhh!" 

Nipple Cream

Nursing Pads

Breastfeeding will do a number on your nipples at first. The cream will help sooth the pain, excellent for when you go to shower and just the water hurts! The pads will help from leaking through your bra and shirt, it's embarrassing trust me! 

Water Bottles next to bed 

Quick Snacks next to the bed

For those night feedings. I always got thirsty and hungry when I was up with my kids for their night feedings. Keeping a stash will save you (or your spouse) from running to the kitchen 

Phone App/Journal to record dirty/wet diapers and bfing times

After a week home the hospitals (in my area) send a home nurse to check up on you. Their job is to make sure baby is feeding correctly, gaining weight, and is having plenty of dirty/wet diapers. They also answer any questions you may have and will give you tons of awesome papers with tips and tricks on them. I wish I had an app or journal to write down and keep track of everything so I could give her accurate answers.


Added for C-Section Mommas!

"Gas Pills because you WILL get trapped air from when they open you up."

Grilled Cajun Shrimp

The weather has been wonderful the past couple days, sunny and above 30 degrees! Which to Peter and I means, GRILLING SEASON! Ever since he received his grill/smoker for his birthday last year he has been loving it...and so has our family. The food tastes amazing, seriously amazing coming off the grill. 

Since it's Friday and also Lent it means no meat today. Last year we just stuck with the McDonald's fish sandwiches and fries or tuna from a can in different ways. This year I'm being more adventurous and since the weather is so nice we have decided to do shrimp on the barbie! 

Cajun Seasoning 

5 Tbsp Kosher Salt

2 Tbsp Cayenne Pepper

2 Tbsp Garlic Powder

2 Tbsp Sweet Paprika

1 Tbsp Chili Powder

1 Tbsp Cumin

1 Tbsp Oregano

1 Tbsp Thyme

1 Tbsp Black Pepper

1 Tbsp Onion Powder

Put all the ingredients into a small zip lock baggie and shake to mix. 

Grilled Cajun Shrimp

2 lbs medium shrimp, peeled with tail intact

4 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp Cajun season

1 tbsp chipolte peppers in adobo sauce, chopped

1 tsp brown sugar

salt and pepper

In a large bowl toss together the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and chopped chipoltes.

Mix well to coat the shrimp.

Cover & refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Preheat your grill to medium.

Skewer the shrimp and place them on the grill.

Cook until they turn pink and the tails curl up.

Ways To Be A Happy Stay At Home Mom/Wife

Having the chance to stay at home with your children is such a blessing! At the same time it is very challenging and you may find yourself stressed out, exhausted, and fed up.

• Wake up before the kids!

Get ready for the day before the kids wake up. I wake up every morning at least 2 hours before the kids usually wake. Being able to put away the clean dishes, load the dishwasher with the dirty ones, have my coffee, get dressed, and enjoy an episode of my favorite show before the kids wake up let's me relax. It also let's me get ready because I know if I don't do it before I either won't do it at all after or I will rush through it later.

• Lower your expectations.

When you have low expectations you are less likely to become disappointed if something doesn't get done (which is okay).

• Make time for your significant other.

A date night (out or in) or just time together after the kids are in bed watching your favorite show together. When the kids are awake be sure to steal a hug or kiss (or two) from your significant other. Don't forget that they are there too and need some of your attention, even if its a quick reminder of how much you love them. 

• More smiles, singing, & giggles. 

Go ahead and be Snow White(:  When I start my work for the day I put on some music. Not only does it help me from getting bored but the kids enjoy dancing to it and I enjoy singing! So if you come over during cleaning time you will find Snow White (me) singing while working and her little dwarfs (the kids) dancing away! 

• Talk to grown ups.

When you stay at home all day with the kids you almost forget that there are other adults in the world. Give a friend a phone call at the end of the day or have a girls night with your friends. Leave the conversation about our kids at home and talk about other things. 

• Get out of the house.

Go for a walk, play in the park with the kids, or go out in the backyard...do something that is not inside! It will help you from getting cabin fever. Even if it's just for a quick run to the gas station to fill up the car, do something!

• Clean a little each day.

Doing all the dusting on Monday, Sweeping each night before bed, Bathrooms on Wednesday...breaking it down will make it easier. I usually enjoy doing most of my cleaning during the kids nap times or before bed so when I wake up in the morning I don't wake up to a mess!

• Make a schedule.

It will save you. When the days hit that the kids are screaming and not cooperating you will thank yourself for having a schedule. You will also be less stressed thinking if you missed an appointment or forgot to pick something up.

Things That Nobody Tells You Before Having A Baby

After having two children (and expecting two more) there are still things that surprise me about labor. Not only that but since every labor and delivery is different I have learned more each time I have a child. Some things I was told about (the horrible contractions) but there were also things nobody told me that I found out myself (breastfeeding hurts in the beginning and the breathing techniques are crap).

 So I decided to make a post of some things I learned after having two children. Some of these are from Facebook followers who "like" this blogs Facebook page, you can do so here. 

1. Like I said above, breastfeeding hurts in the beginning.
You may even want to stop because it hurts so bad (I really wanted to, but glad I stuck with it...both times)!  Using nipple cream, a thin bra in the shower, and helping baby latch correctly will help immensely.

2. When your water breaks, you may not know it!
Both times I just thought I had pee'd myself *sigh*, it happens. Turns out when your water breaks it doesn't always "gush" out like everyone says. The amniotic sac may just tear a bit (which is what happened to me) and you will leak fluid slowly...constantly. 

3. Breathing Techniques? Yeah...no.
That was the last thing on my mind while trying not to die through contractions. I was doing jumping jacks (just as my doctor haha!) and breathing "normal". 

4. You won't sleep in the hospital like sleeping beauty. 
The nurses usually come in every half hour to an hour to check on you and baby. Although you can ask (don't be afraid to ask) for them to skip a session so you can try to get some quick Z's. They did for us after we had our daughter.

5. Not all hospital food is horrid.
I actually LOVED the hospital food in both places we had our children. I still have yet found someone to make a better strawberry shortcake then the hospital our daughter was born at.

6. Sleep while baby sleeps?  Yeah, no to that too. 
Whenever either of my children slept I always felt the urge to do something! I needed to pick up this here or put away that there. I'm horrible at taking naps, always have been. Hopefully you're different!

7. Your hormones after having baby are still a bit crazy...making you a bit crazy.
I wasn't expecting that. Cry, cry all you want over that onesie that doesn't fit your baby or the dirty dishes. It's okay. 

8. Tucks Pads will be a savior. Trust me, just get some. 

9. Going to the bathroom after having baby is the absolute scariest thing ever.
Scarier then a spider..and I hate spiders. Using the water bottle they give you to spray WHILE going and after will most definitely help. I also found that taking a can of Dermoplast and spraying your self "down there" after using the toilet will create such a soothing feeling, it's like paradise. 

10. Being induced makes the contractions worse...a lot worse in my opinion.
I had pitocin with my son because I was not dilating at all. My body thankfully worked with me when I had my daughter and did the job itself. The pain award between the two labors goes to my first! 

11. It could be 1..2..push..baby! Or it could be 29 hours later and 2 hours of pushing, with no baby. 
Everybody is different, we all labor differently. Just because Becky had a quick 2 hour labor and pushed 2 times does not mean it will be that easy for you. Also, just because Susan had a horrible 36 hour labor and pushed for a half hour does not mean you will labor for that long. Stop comparing and relax! 

12. The "Ring of Fire"?
There may not be actual fire, but there should be. This phrase is spot on for that moment of child birth. It only lasts about 30 seconds (when the baby's head passes through your down stairs) but it will be the worst/best 30 seconds of your life.

13. Your life will suck until you figure out a schedule.
Don't try to google one either. You will just get even more frustrated and angry. Creating your own schedule that both works for you and baby is easiest.


Last but not least, you will love this little person more then anybody else in the world. From the first time they get a boo-boo to the first time you hear them call you "mommy", you will have no doubt that you and your little family are perfect.

**The following are from my facebook followers and friends off of the CafeMom website**

14. You will still look pregnant after having your baby.
After giving birth you will still look about 6 months pregnant. Your skin isn't elastic enough to just bounce back, of course there are those lucky few who look better after birth then they did before.

15. You have the control!
You will have more control in the hospital then you think. Do not let the doctors or nurses push you around and make you think that they run the place. YOU hired them, this is YOUR child and YOUR body, they are just their for assistance. Be strong and stand your ground.

16. You will still be wearing maternity clothing when you leave. (see number 14)
So don't try to squeeze you cute little butt into your pre-pregnancy skinny jeans. Sweat pants or yoga pants are the way to go especially if you have c-section.

17. The first month isn't all that fun.
Between the poopy diapers, spitting up, and crying in the middle of the night (and day) it will be stressful, especially if this is your first child. Figuring out why the heck baby is crying even though he has a fresh diaper (check it again, newborns are infamous for going to the bathroom soon after being changed) is difficult. It will get better, you will learn your baby's ques and get a schedule down. It will get easier, say it again if you need to.

**If you have anything to add to this post please feel free to post it in the comments. I will update when I can.**

Introducing Baby & Dogs?

Leaving the hospital and getting home can be stressful. The first drive in the car, the first time you are no longer with the help of nurses...I'm not sure about you but on our home with both children I made Peter drive slower then usually because I was so nervous! 

For animal owners it is also a stressful time for the pets. Their beloved owners have been gone for a few days and are now home with a brand new toy human. To make the transition easier for you and your pets you can start training them while you're pregnant. The following are things to focus on before baby arrives, of course the following depends on how well trained your dog already is.

1. Does your dog have an aggression issue?

How does your dog act when you step near his/her food dish, toys, or bed? If they react by snipping, growling, or hovering you may want to seek a professional trainer to help with this problem.  Remember once baby becomes mobile the dogs toys, food bowl, and bed are new territory. They will want to explore. Of course teaching your child that the dog items are "no-no's" is a no brainer but the items are still there tempting them(: 

2. Teaching proper manners.

If your dog jumps up on people when he/she gets excited that is something that should be stopped. Once baby comes home and you have visitors (or even just yourself) hold the baby, you do not want your dog jumping up. It can be a hazard, baby could be knocked out of the person's hand. 

Practice the "drop it" command. Baby items will be left around I'm sure meaning your dog will think he has a new toy! 

3. Pet proofing, not just baby proofing?

If your dog sleeps in bed with you, you may want to start training him to stay on the ground. If you plan to co-sleep with baby or put them in a sleep against the bed the dogs new bed should be on the floor. 

Getting a diaper pail may be a good idea. You don't want your dog spreading unwanted "paint" all over!

4. Introducing baby and dog.

If you have visitors in the hospital after baby is born have one of your guests take an item that baby wore (hat, onesie, etc) back to your house. Have them let your dog inspect the item, smelling or licking, so they know the scent of the baby. Once home let them meet on neutral territory, outside as opposed to inside. Use your commands and keep an eye on your dog, reward him with a treat for listening and being well behaved. 

If you are a dog owner please share what you did to make the transition easier for you and your dog!

Eating/Drinking While Breastfeeding Tips

When breastfeeding my son and daughter I admit that I really didn't cut anything out. Of course there were the common sense things such as spicy foods (which I didn't eat much of anyway) or excessive amounts of coffee (I went down to one cup a day). I did however add more water and protein. I was lucky enough to have babies that had no reactions to what I ate, they enjoyed it all!  

Not all breastfeeding mom's are that lucky though. I have seen several friends go through trial and error trying to figure out what they were eating that was causing their baby to get a rash or have horrible gas. I'm hoping this post will help you and any other mom that has questions about what to eat while breastfeeding.

Caffeine?

You should have no more then 300mg of caffeine a day which equals about three 5-ounce cups of coffee. For me, I cut down to one cup of coffee a day. It was enough to give me the energy I needed in the morning and enough to not want to hurt anybody because I didn't have my coffee(:

Alcohol?

After drinking an alcoholic drink it takes two to three hours for your body to work out the alcohol. One small glass of wine or a beer is perfectly fine, but more then that should be timed with your feeding schedule.
When I first started breastfeeding my son the doctor actually told me to have a beer at night to help me relax.

Fish?

Be careful. Find a list of the fish you are fine to eat and not to eat, HERE.

Flavors of The Food?

Sometimes the flavors of the food that you eat (such as broccoli) can taint the flavor of your milk. Foods such as broccoli, cabbage, garlic, spicy foods, and caffeine can change the flavor of your breast milk and make baby gassy. If you notice baby being fussy and having gas try to remember what you ate before the previous feeding. You may need to cut something out.

Eat more of...

-Complex Carbs

    Fresh fruits & veggies and whole grains.

-Healthy Fats

    Canola oil, olive oil, salmon, avocado, and nuts.

HERE, is a chart of the daily food group servings for a breast feeding mom.

Citrus Foods/Drinks?

These are foods/drinks which you can still eat but in moderation. Certain compounds in citrus can lead to diaper rash, spitting up, and fussiness in your baby. Switch out an orange for a mango, you will still get your vitamin C.



**Don't forget to eat the extra calories needed while breastfeeding! An extra 300-500 calories is need to help maintain your supply.


**Don't forget to drink extra water! At least 16 cups a day is recommended. I always had a glass next to me while feeding because that's when I got really thirsty.

Fighting Morning Sickness.

Thankfully with this pregnancy I have not had any morning sickness (knock on wood) but with the previous two I had it horrible in the first trimester. So I looked into ways to help relieve the nausea, the following are things that I have tried (marked with a *) and other things that I heard work wonders!

1. Watermelon

It's high water content and fruit sugars can help alleviate nausea. Bonus, it's delicious and can be used in slushies, smoothies, or just by itself.

2. Ginger *

Fresh ginger is best, peeled and shaved into hot tea. If you can't get a hold of fresh ginger then try to find flavored candies, ginger ale, or ginger gum. 

3. Peppermint *

One drop of essential oil under the tongue and done! You can also try gum, altoids mints, or hot tea...all peppermint flavored.

4. Eat Cold Foods *

Food that is cold, such as pasta salad or fruit stored in the fridge, has less of an odor then food that is hot. 

5. Small Meals

Usually when I started to get nauseous was when I realized I waited too long between meals. Eating small meals throughout the day instead of the normal breakfast, lunch, and dinner helps with keeping your stomach full and gives you a less chance of getting nauseous.

6. Drink Lemon Water

As you know during pregnancy you are suppose to up your water intake. Sometimes the taste of plain water can lead to some women getting sick. By adding lemon to the water and a teaspoon of sugar it will change the taste and help relieve the nausea. 

What did you do to help fight off or calm morning sickness? Feel free to comment!

Pregnancy Must Haves!

When I first found out I was pregnant with twins I went right to Amazon.com to order books and then over to Pinterest.com to start pinning things to help me along this pregnancy. The list below are a few items I came across when pregnancy blog surfing and ended up purchasing or receiving as a gift. This list is not only for mom's to multiples though, all the items are great for a singleton pregnancy too!

1. Pregnancy Pillow!

I have this one, here. It is AMAZING! I usually like to sleep on my stomach, and all momma's know that doing so is a big no, no. This pillow helped me stay on my side and when turned the other way (pillow in the front rather then behind you) really helps support my belly. The only negative thing I have to say about this pillow is that it's huge. We have a king size bed and I feel like I'm taking up 3/4 of the bed when I use to pillow. 

2. Old Navy Maternity Clothing

Old Navy Maternity

They are always having great sales and have the best prices for their clothing. If you shop online their selection is large compared to other sites I came across. The wonderful thing I also came to find out? The maternity clothing still look great while NOT pregnant. (I will try to update the photo as soon as they start a new sale.)

3. A Good Pregnancy Book

   

No matter what every mom has questions regarding pregnancy, birth, and what to do now that baby is here! The books I have above are the ones I really enjoyed reading. The Juggling Twins book for this pregnancy and the Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: A Complete Guide for when I first got pregnant with my son. They both answered the questions that I had and gave me the information needed.

4. Water Bottle

Momma's have to stay hydrated, not only during pregnancy but after labor too. I take my bottle with me everywhere. I also have an extra in my car that I keep filled in case I forget mine or need extra water. 

5. Lotion

Some how I always end up pregnant in the winter, so my skin gets dried out fast. Applying lotion daily helps keep it hydrated and stops the itching. You can use any brand that you want, they even have pregnancy specific kinds. 

So what were some must have items during your pregnancy? Feel free to share and I will add them to the list!