*Disclaimer: Thank you to P&G for providing our gift card and wipes to facilitate this post*
There are so many things that I wish I would have known before I became a mom. When I had my oldest daughter, I was a young and scared. There are so many things that I did not know and I really wish someone would have told me. If you are expecting or are a first time mom, I want to share with you some things that I think you deserve to know!
- It is normal to be scared. Why? Because you don't know what to expect. This little human has already or is coming into your life. You don't know what is going to happen. You don't know what is going to go on day to day. Do not let this fear consume you. Why? Because as a mom we all start somewhere. Don't keep your head stuck in those "how to raise your baby" books. In the end, you will do your own natural thing. Take it one day at a time!
- Don't try to be supermom. You will want to get everything done and you will want it to be perfect. Your house does not have to be completely spotless. You do not have to have every hair in place. The dishes don't have to be done every day. You can pick a few days out of the week to do laundry. Enjoy spending time with your little one(s) because you never want to miss a moment.
- Rest When Baby Does! Oh my. If you are reading this and already have kids, you already know this tip is amazing. We all know that babies get up in the middle of the night. Taking advantage of that nap in the middle of the day is something that you won't regret. Take a cat nap and enjoy the cuddles!
- Don't be afraid to tell that old lady in the store to mind her own business when it comes to unwanted advice. I couldn't tell you how many times that I received unwanted and not to mention BAD advice when it came to my kids. After my second baby it didn't take me long to smack someones hand when they tried to touch my child. Or tell somebody to mind their own business when they say "Oh! You are pregnant again?! You know how that happens don't you?" "Your baby doesn't need that much breastmilk in his/her bottle, or he/she will get fat." Um really? I will feed my baby as much as he/she wants. I know how much he/she can handle thank you.
- You will appreciate showers like no other. Sometimes as moms, our shower time is the only time we get alone. It will feel like 5 minutes of paradise. (Because sometimes 5 minutes is all you can get in when kids are running around!)
- Baby poo comes in so many colors. YES, green poo, yellow poo, brown poo. IT IS ALL NORMAL. If you are breastfeeding, yellow poo that smells like popcorn will become the new normal. When they DON'T poo is when you need to be worried. If you are pregnant, the first time your baby goes will be like black tar. Do not be alarmed. It is normal. I remember FREAKING out when I had my first daughter. No one ever told me it would smell and look so awful.
- Pampers Swaddlers Diapers ARE THE BEST! I am not saying this just because. I am saying this because Pampers ARE literally the only brand that I used with each of my kids. When my kids were little babies, the hospital would always give them Pampers diapers. I love Pampers for a variety of reasons, one of them bring that they are a brand I can trust.
Not only are pampers diapers soft and the best. Pampers also provide 12 hours of protection! I also loved the little wetness indicator that changed colors when the little one wet the diaper. That really comes in handy when they are newborns because they can only pee so much. Did you know that Babies "R" Us has a wide selection of Pampers Swaddlers?
My local store carries so many Pampers diapers. The Pampers Swaddlers included. If you are like me, you want to purchase more at a time so they last longer. I mean there is nothing more annoying than realizing you are down to your last diaper. We all know that it takes forever to get out out of the door with the wee ones.
You can now purchase Pampers Swaddlers Super Economy Pack and Economy Plus Pack at Babies "R" Us online too!
If you decide to purchase online, most of the time you can get FREE In Store Pickup as well! Pampers are available up to size 5! If you don't know what fit to get for your little one, ask the experts are Babies "R" Us! They will help you. Don't forget your Pampers Baby Fresh Wipes while you are at it! I received some with my prize pack and let me tell you- not only do they feel great, they smell amazing! Should we ever have any more kids, Pampers Swaddlers are going to be the first on my baby shower registry! That is for sure! Check out the Babies "R" Us website via one of the links here in this post and see where there is one located near you! Be sure to visit them on their social media below while you are at it! You don't want to miss out on a good deal!
What I wish I would Have Known Before Becoming A Mom! @BabiesRUs #Giveaway #MilestoneMoments #Ad @pampers http://t.co/jpA9I37zhW
— Bre-The Small Things (@bre631989) June 23, 2014
Join me for a #MilestoneMoments Twitter Party on Thursday, June 26 at 9pm ET. Follow the #MilestoneMoments to participate! See you there!!!
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WIN IT! One lucky reader is going to win a $150 Babies "R" Us GiftCard and Pampers Wipes (64 count)! Remember that Babies "R" Us Giftcards can also be redeemed at Toys "R" Us! Most of them have both combined into one store. I AM THE ONLY BLOGGER ON THIS GIVEAWAY! Winner must live in the Continental USA.You MUST complete the mandatory entries to qualify. Completing ALL entries will increase your odds. Giveaway will end on 7/20/14 at 11:59PM CST. No
purchase necessary to enter. Winner will have 24 hours to respond to
the winning email PLEASE add bbrown@thesmallthings89.com to your SAFE
SENDER LIST. I will not be responsible for emails lost in spam. Enter with the giveaway tools below! Goodluck!
*The Small Things will be sending the winner their prize. This giveaway is not affiliated with Facebook,
Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram.*
I would get diapers and formula
ReplyDeleteAshley H
I'd like to buy a Baby Bjorn carrier.
ReplyDeleteI love this! My list for expectant/new moms would be completely different, but it is awesome!
ReplyDeleteI want to buy clothes for my boys. Babies grow so fast so rock them to sleep.
ReplyDeleteI would love to buy a convertible car seat from Babies-R-Us for my 14.4 lb 3 month old! :D
ReplyDeleteThis is such a helpful list for expecting or new mommies.
ReplyDeleteI would buy clothes for both my children and a new thermometer.
ReplyDeleteI wish I had known that it gets easier really fast. I found motherhood challenging but I didn't realize after a few months it started getting easier EVERY day.
I'd love to use the gift certificate for the Safety 1st Decor Wood High Chair - Casablanca
ReplyDeleteI would stock up on wipes and diapers.
ReplyDeleteI want to buy a bassinet at babies r us if I won. I have been looking at this one for a little while and it is adorable
ReplyDeleteI would buy my kids each two new toys and some pull ups. I would have liked to know some tips for potty training.
ReplyDeleteI would get a car seat at toys r us. I wish I would have known how much everything costs and all of the baby needs.
ReplyDeleteI would buy clothes and diapers for my grandson.
ReplyDeleteI would get puzzles and games. My tip is when someone offers to help out by watching the baby even if its for a quick shower take it!!! don't be shameful to ask for help either its easy to get burned out so make time for yourself!
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers and some fun baby gadgets that I otherwise wouldn't splurge on.
ReplyDeleteI would love to get a crib at Babies R Us with the gift card!
ReplyDeleteOh how I love Pampers, but ESPECIALLY the Swaddlers diapers. Even more so now, since they go up to 5 & our littlest one is wearing them again. I would most definitely get some diapers, pull-ups, & wipes. I have been eye balling the Sit N' Stand stroller as well, so that could be an option if I wasn't in desperate need of diapers!
ReplyDeleteA bit of advice, for any parent or caregiver, don't get down on yourself for feeling sad, anxious, or nervous. I still have days that I have to make sure they are not in harms way, & step on the porch for a few minutes, or cry my eyes out while their napping. It's not always easy, but it's completely worth it! They don't come with instruction manuals. Just do what you feel is right & the rest will follow!
I would buy my son a bike from TOYS R US!
ReplyDeleteI would put it towards a car seat.
ReplyDeleteI would get a car seat adapter for our stroller and some new swaddle blankets.
ReplyDeletetoys for my grandsons birthday.
ReplyDeleteI would buy a stroller.
ReplyDeletesummer/fall clothes for my grandson
ReplyDeletemake sure you rest yourself while the baby is sleeping or you may not get any sleep at all or very little.
ReplyDeleteOne tip I have for new moms is always trust your instincts when coming to anything about your baby. If it feels right it is.
ReplyDeleteb-day gifts for my grandson.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to use it towards a trampoline for my kids!
ReplyDeleteNathansmommy619(At)Aol(Dot)com
I wish I had known to relax and not be so afraid of everything.
ReplyDeleteI would probably buy a crib mattress and sheets.
toys for my grandson
ReplyDeleteI would buy toys
ReplyDeleteI would buy wipes and clothing
ReplyDeleteI would put the gift card towards a double electric breast pump. It's on of the things on my list I haven't got yet before the baby gets here.
ReplyDeletediapers and clothes.
ReplyDeleteI could use this for some new clothes for my kiddos at Babies R Us!
ReplyDeleteNathansmommy619(At)Aol(Dot)com
I would love to get a car seat with it. And I think my best advice is be patient they will get it, reward their good deed when they do!
ReplyDeleteclothes, toys and diapers
ReplyDeleteOne thing I can say is to have hubby do the shopping for the week. Definitely saves you time.
ReplyDeleteI am in desperate need of a double stroller. The two we have are good, but our little big girl is quickly outgrowing hers, while our littlest one's stroller is not in the best shape! The handle is nearly impossible to turn anymore to expand/collapse it! I've had my eye on a sit n stand stroller & the Baby Trend Eclipse Sit 'n Stand Double Stroller - Spark would be perfect!!
ReplyDeleteI would like to buy my two youngest granddaughter's a bunk bed so they each have their own sleeping quarters. The one thing I will share which comes with age and time is to have patience.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers
ReplyDeleteI would buy a game for my sons game system and clothes for my grandson.
ReplyDeleteHave your car seat checked by someone who knows how to install it correctly.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers, wipes and toys for my grandbabies. Tip - Nap when the baby does, and let the housework wait.
ReplyDeleteDiapers and Toys - and don't be afraid to ask for help, when u need it.
ReplyDeletelots of toys and some clothes
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers--as many as I could! As for a tip, I suggest sleeping when the baby sleeps!
ReplyDeleteI most definitely would get the stroller of my dreams, if I won this giveaway! It's a Sit N' Stand & exactly what I need for my two toddlers!! <3
ReplyDeleteI really need to buy a bunkbed for two of my granddaughters.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers, wipes and toys. Tip - Dont get stresses out, ask for help.
ReplyDeleteI would love a highchair
ReplyDeletebabies are us.. tenth grandbaby due in august so this would all be his!! thank you for the chance!
ReplyDeleteSome advice that I would most definitely give to a new mom-- Don't be ashamed to accept the help from the staff in the hospital, when you have your baby. I know as a new mom, we want our precious bundle of joy in our sight at all times! With my first daughter, I too was that way.
ReplyDeleteThe nurses I had at my hospital were amazing! They were so supportive, informative, & helpful. They also offered many classes, videos, & reading material for you, especially as a new mother. They are there to keep you & your child safe, healthy, & comfortable. If you're feeling rough that night, the next morning, etc., & they offer to take your sleeping little one to the nursery so that you too may get some rest, don't be bashful-- it's okay to get some last minute rest while you can!
maybe buy some Christmas gifts, it's never too early to start shopping right.
ReplyDeleteI would love to use the gift card to help by a carrier and some baby essentials for a friend in need.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers and wipes. Tip - get away for a few hours, every few days, it helps with the baby blues.
ReplyDeleteI'd buy a toddler bed :)
ReplyDeleteI would use it for diapers and bottles! Baby #2 is speeding on her way here!
ReplyDeleteAlso, for a tip - don't be afraid to utilize grandma. She LIKES keeping the baby, and you need a night without interruptions. Enjoy it!
I would by the grandgirls a bunk bed.
ReplyDeleteI'd buy baby clothes and diapers for our friends who recently had twins.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers, wipes and toys. Tip - Being angry or resentful to your hubby, is all perfectly normal, it is sometimes overwhelming, and has to do with the fact, that hormones are changing...sometimes you feel like no one cares what you are going through.
ReplyDeleteI would buy birthday gifts for both grandsons who have b-days coming up very soon.
ReplyDeleteDiapers, wipes and toys. Tip - let hubby help as much as possible.
ReplyDeleteI have been debating heavily the last few days, as to what would be most sensible to use this gc for, if i won. I think I would go ahead & buy the big little princess a pair of shoes. We discovered two nights ago, as she was complaining that 'something was in her shoe', her little toes were touching the edge. So I would get her a good pair of shoes, then put the rest towards a double stroller & pay the difference!! <3
ReplyDeleteI would buy a bunk bed for my granddaughters.
ReplyDeleteb-day gifts and also baby shower gift for my niece expecting her first baby
ReplyDeleteI would like to buy a bunk bed for my daughter and my advice for a first time mommy would be to sleep while the baby sleeps.
ReplyDeleteWhether your child is newborn, or 10, don't compare their milestones, growth, or anything else, to other children. With my first daughter, as her 1st birthday quickly approached, I was so upset that she hadn't took off walking yet. I tried nearly everything! I thought she should have been walking by this point. I recall her holding onto the table and tip-toeing around it, or holding her fingers as she would glide across the carpet, but she had yet to take off on her own. We rearranged the living room to where things would be at her reach more easily, all to no avail. At 13 months old, I had decided she would go when she was ready. Sure enough, after a week of letting her do her own thing, not trying to "make" her wanna walk... There she went. Walking to Daddy as he came in the door.
ReplyDeleteMy point is: don't get discouraged if your child does things earlier or later than others. Every child truly is different. As with every person in life. We all learn differently, at different paces, & with different techniques.
accept ant help when it is offered, we all need help from time to time.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers, wipes and toys. maybe a few clothes. My tip - Don't let others, make you feel uncomfortable about the way you take care of your baby.
ReplyDeleteTake it at your own pace, and don't get overexcited...stay calm even if your babies temp is over 100.1 cause this will make you and baby even more stressed.
ReplyDeleteI really need to get my granddaughters a bunk bed.
ReplyDeleteDiapers, wipes and toys. Tip - Rest as much as you can, let your husband or relatives help with housework and errands.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers, wipes and clothes for my grandson.
ReplyDeleteOh I would love to stock up on Pampers diapers and wipes!
ReplyDeleteI would love to get the grandgirls their bed.
ReplyDeleteI would get b-day presents and diapers and a game for my son.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers, wipes, toys and clothes. Tip - When you are alone with the baby and you need to use the restroom or take a shower, its perfectly alright to take the baby in the restroom with you, in a little bouncer etc.
ReplyDeleteI would buy some Dr Brown bottles for my grandson
ReplyDeleteI would definitely buy a bunk bed for my daughter
ReplyDeleteI'd love to buy a new car seat for my daughter
ReplyDeletedemureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com
I would love to get some newborn clothes for my son! I wish I had known more about breastfeeding the first time with my daughter. It was a very difficult process for me.
ReplyDeletebuy diapers and b-day gifts
ReplyDeleteI would get a car seat and diapers for my niece
ReplyDeletethis would help buy b-day gifts for my grandson and some clothes
ReplyDeleteI really need to get a new bed for my two youngest granddaughters. I am thinking about a bunk bed.
ReplyDeleteI would buy a bed for the girls.
ReplyDeleteI'm due in Nov. I will get a baby crib.
ReplyDeleteI would use it to help me buy a glider chair! I've been wanting one for so long!
ReplyDeleteIf you're able to, get a rock 'n play sleeper. It was a lifesaver! It was easily folded for travel, lightweight, we could slide it into whichever room we were in to keep her close while doing chores, etc. They come in various color selections & now they even have a soothing attachment that can play music & vibrate to keep baby calm while they're resting between feedings!!
ReplyDeleteI would buy a bedframe for my granddaughters.
ReplyDeleteI would buy diapers and b-day gifts for my 2 grandsons with b-days coming up.
ReplyDeleteI would purchase a toddler bed or educational toys for our daughter.
ReplyDeleteI would like to buy my kids new bedding.
ReplyDeleteBesides a bunk bed, I would like to buy my daughter a beautiful barbie !
ReplyDeleteLess is more! Babies grow out of clothes SO quickly. Do not feel bad about returning/exchanging gifts for things you & baby need, like diapers and wipes.
ReplyDeleteI would like to get bedroom furniture for my grandkids.
ReplyDeleteDiapers and Wipes - Nap when baby does.
ReplyDeleteI would like to buy a bed for my grandchildren.
ReplyDeleteI would buy my daughter an infant car seat
ReplyDeleteIf I win, I would like to buy my daughter a bunk bed and a barbie :) thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteI would buy clothes for my grandson.
ReplyDeleteDiapers and wipes. Ask for help, try to get enough rest and take time to eat.
ReplyDeleteBaby books!
ReplyDeleteI would love to buy toys and diapers!
ReplyDeleteI would buy my son a bike.
ReplyDeleterounder9834 @yahoo.com