Dear Friend,
First of all a huge congratulations on your beautiful little baby. There is nothing more special than holding that tiny little person that grew inside you in your arms and looking down on their sweet milk drunk face. So many people will have something to tell you about having a new baby, lot's of people will have well meaning advice for you and some of it you will want to listen to but some of it really won't fit with how you choose to parent and that is OK, We all have our own way of doing things and I am not here to tell you what to do or how to do it. There is so much I want to tell you though about being a new mum, things you most likely already know but it's good to hear from someone else, such as do try and rest when you can especially if you have been up all night and also not to stress the little things. Having a new baby is challenging and I am sure you will have your ups and down's just like we all do.
We all have bad days, days where we want to hide in the bathroom and have a good old cry- I cried over a steak pie when Ailsa was a few days old- damn hormones. But where we have bad days we also have amazing days, When all seems to be running smoothly, baby naps well, they may have slept longer through the night, the house is clean and tidy and you are well fed and well rested just as baby is. You will have days when your in 2 day old pyjamas, hair unwashed and smelling a little funky and then there will be days when your showered, hair washed and blow dried, a fabulous outfit on and make up all done and you will feel like you can take on the world and look like you have your shit together. It's all swings and roundabouts as a new mum.
The newborn weeks don't last very long at all and as much as they are special and you should take in as much as you can ( take lots of photos and videos) your little one will grow and as they do they will develop new skills and they are oh so amazing to watch. You will see your little one discover their hands, their feet and their voice. They will learn to roll over, sit up, crawl and walk. Although I am only 18 months ahead of you, I just know of the wonderful time you have to come experiencing such a magical time of learning and discovery of both your child and yourself.
Enjoy the time ahead of you. Take in what you can, learn and grow from every day. Know that you will have bad days and you will have good days, know that most of us mummy's are losing our shit from sleep deprivation or toddler tantrums at some point most days. But most of all trust your instincts you are that little one's mum and you and your partner are the only ones who can make decisions for them as you know them best. Just know you are a fantastic mummy and don't ever doubt that.
I am always here for you.
Your Friend
Labels: child, first time mum, friend, letter, mother, new baby, new mum, newborn
