Surviving the holidays with a newborn
I know how it feels when you've been doing your best trying to get your life together with a newborn and now you feel like the holidays are about to throw a wrench in all of your hard work. If you've been struggling with your baby's sleep routine or you just started getting a silent night, I know that it can be terrifying to think that you might screw it all up with holiday festivities.
With the holidays comes a lot of pressure for new moms to pull it together and get everything done just like you always have. You find yourself with no time to relax and enjoy the season. It is difficult to manage the busy holiday season with a busier baby. The good news is that it's not impossible.
With these sanity-saving tips to surviving the holidays with a new baby, you'll be able to enjoy your favorite holidays without feeling isolated or overwhelmed.
1. Remember it's okay to say no.
This can be so hard, especially during this time of the year when we strive so hard to make things perfect. Things can still be magical without all the extra fuss. So yes, it's perfectly acceptable to turn down invitations to holiday gatherings (yes, even from family) and stay home with YOUR new family, this year.
2. Remember it's also okay to say yes.
Did your friends just ask if you needed anything before coming to visit you and the new baby?? Say YES! Tell them you are in desperate need of your favorite meal from your favorite restaurant. You wouldn't hesitate to bring your friend dinner, so let them do it for YOU!
3. Wear the Baby
Strangers and even well-meaning loved ones have a tendency to get a little handsy with new babies. Having baby nice and close to your body drastically reduces the "little peeks" and makes it harder to expose your newborn to their germs, as well. You'll also have a calmer baby on your hands, which is always a win!
4. Slow Down
Take a breather. Even better, take a nap! We tend to be in all-or-nothing mode the closer we get to the holidays so take this as your official permission to take a deep breath. Go ahead, we'll wait.... there. Isn't that better? Now, tune into your body and listen to what it's telling you- is your bottom sore? Rest. Has your lochia (postpartum bleeding) changed? That could be your body telling you you're doing too much, too soon. Get off your feet for a while and let your body rest. You've done hard work!
5. Plan Ahead
Are you breastfeeding? Make sure to have a quiet, distraction-free area you can go if you're needing some privacy as you and baby continue to figure things out together. Exclusively Pumping? Ask your host for a private space and give yourself plenty of time to pump- and stick to your schedule to avoid holiday mastitis! Formula feeding? Plan ahead by making sure you have all the supplies you'll need while you're away (bottles, formula, nipples, etc.). Pack the diaper bag the night before your trip. Bring lots of wipes and extra clothes, because babies love blowouts, especially when you're away from home.
I hope you thoroughly enjoy your holidays with a baby this year. You absolutely deserve it, mama. Being a mother is all-consuming but you can still be you. You can still enjoy the parts of this season that you've always loved. Good luck and be safe this holiday! Oh, and congratulations on your new little bundle of joy!