Things No One Tells You
Whether it's because people are being nice, it's awkward to talk about, or they just don't know (like us), the following things never came up in conversation. In any case, these are some things that we wish we would've thought of before having Alivia and things that we would definitely pass on.1. DON'T open all of the bottles you get and wash them in preparation for baby. If he or she ends up not liking them, you're not stuck with a bunch of bottles that you won't use. You can return them and try a different brand/type.
2. As silly as it looks, a strapless (straps optional) breast pump bra is the greatest invention in the world of breastfeeding. (How do you think I have time to write this post?) Thanks, Mindi, for gifting one to me.
3. Wait at least 5 (and sometimes 10) minutes after a feeding before changing a diaper. We would've saved several diapers, wipes, handsoap, and energy. This should've been common sense, but it just never crossed our minds. We found out the hard way that being patient pays off.
4. NEVER expect to be on time for anything or to be able to leave the house at a certain time. Everything seems to take three times as long as you think it will.
5. If you're lucky enough to get a labor/delivery and post delivery staff that we did, stay in the hospital for that extra day, even if you want to go home. We realize now that it was like being at an all-inclusive resort (minus the pool).
6. Not only are you not allowed to eat while in labor, you get to the point where you can't even drink water or have ice chips (at least this was true for me). Food was tolerable, but no water after several hours is terrible!
7. Expect the unexpected!
