Move It

The weather in NYC has been pretty hot but thankfully the mornings are a little cooler (around 70-80 degrees). E is over 6 weeks old and I've been cleared by my doctor to go back to my pre-pregnancy activities.

Being at home all day can be a little mind numbing so to help with my sanity, I've been going out for morning walks with the little one. Instead of pushing her in a stroller, I've been using a baby wrap (I like my Solly Baby best because it's lightweight and breathable). I also find it soothing for her and a little bit of weight lifting for me :).

Taking daily walks has been a great form of self-care for me. I've never been a super fit person but it's important to stay active to keep the postpartum baby blues away and to maintain my physical health. Any other suggestions for staying active while caring for a newborn? Feel free to share!

Self-Care: A Few of My Favorite Summer Activities in NYC

Exploring Ft. Tilden, Rockaway Peninsula.

Lounging on the lawns of Prospect Park. Plus, free concert nights!

Eating waaay too many Italian ices and cones from the Mister Softee truck.

Beach days at the Rockaways.

Day drinking (and/or eating) at the many outdoor establishments around the neighborhood.

Strolling through Brooklyn Bridge Park and admiring the beautiful views of Manhattan.

Farmers Markets at Carroll Park and Borough Hall.

Neighborhood block parties and street fairs.

...

Any other suggestions?

Baby Tip

Little E @ 6 Weeks!

Around 4.5 weeks or so, our daughter developed a flaky scalp and baby acne. The pediatrician assured us this was a normal case of cradle cap. Poor baby! Fortunately, it's not supposed to cause her any discomfort. Although it will eventually get better on its own, nobody wants to see their baby *looking* miserable. Our doctor recommended an over the counter anti-fungal cream (yup- just like the stuff for athlete's foot!) and so far, so good! Of course, check with your own medical provider before trying but if this can help anyone else, I'm glad I shared it. Gotta pick up these baby tips wherever we can!

Some Staycation...

Waikiki sunset during our *real* vacation 10/2018.

When I was pregnant, people would always tell me how lucky I was to have a baby due in the summer because I'd be out of work, enjoying the sunshine! Wish I could say that was true but it's been a little over a month since I've become a mama and leaving the apartment is not easy! I have so much respect for single parents and stay at home caregivers. This work is HARD. Here are a few things I've learned to help myself cope with my new mommyhood:

1) RELAX. Try to breathe and not stress out too much (easier said than done when baby is crying and you can't figure out why..). Baby knows when you're stressed and it doesn't make it easier for anyone. Even the most hectic of moments pass. You'll be okay.

2) EAT. You need the fuel to keep up with this energizer bunny, especially if you're breastfeeding. 

3) SLEEP. Sleep when the baby sleeps- that is the best advice! Try to refrain from doing all the chores in the house, surfing on the internet, and all the other non-sleep activities you're tempted to do while baby is in dreamland (easier said than done when all you want to do is look at your cute newborn peacefully resting in their crib).

...Speaking of...my baby is up and ready for her next meal! 'Til next time!!

Mommy Fail

When I was pregnant, people loved to take care of me. Think about it- how do you react when you see a baby belly? I felt special because I was the bearer of something important: a new life. I felt loved and protected and I gave all that positive energy to my unborn child.

Nothing prepared me for what happened after my daughter came earth side. I love my beautiful baby but I don't know myself. It's all about her now. I am constantly worried about whether or not I'm doing 'it' right. Will I ever be a good enough mother? 

The other night, my baby was gassy and clearly in a lot of discomfort. I could feel her pain in my heart. After addressing the issue, my husband said something along the lines of 'it's not good that you froze.' I felt like a failure. I couldn't comfort my baby and I wasn't good enough at that moment.

I read somewhere that when a baby is born, a mother is born too. I think it's an important idea to consider when you see a new mom. Whether it's being a new person or a new version of myself, we're both still learning. Kindness and patience are important. 

One Man's Trash...

A few months back, my husband and I were on our way home when I came across these shoes just sitting on the curb...waiting to be re-homed...Considering that I work with a large homeless population, any gently used/worn items that I can donate to my clients is always welcome. 

To the previous owner of these sneakers: thank you for not tossing them in the garbage and giving me an opportunity to turn them into treasure. It's thoughtful gestures like this that can really make a positive difference in someone's life.