Some Advice for New Moms

For 9 months I felt my baby grow inside of me and I prepared for his arrival.  I read books, did research online, talked to my friends with children, and asked my mother many many questions.

When I came home with my son I still couldn't believe that I finally had my baby.  I tried to remember everything I read about being a new mom, and all the advice people gave me.

Of all the advice from family, friends, books & websites there where 5 things that I was told by almost everyone:

• Sleep when your baby sleeps.
• Ask for help.
• Don't freak out if he gets a fever.
• Don't forget to eat.
• Follow your instincts

All of this advice is great and should be followed, but I came to find out that when you have a baby, life is very unpredictable.  This is my experience...


Sleep When your baby sleeps:

• I was very lucky to have my husband home for the first two weeks.  This made it very easy to take naps because I knew that I could take real naps without out interruption.  Once my husband went back to work I did take a nap here and there when my son was sleeping but it became difficult because I wanted to clean up, organize baby stuff, and I just wasn't always tired when he was asleep (I'm not much of a napper).  Eventually my husband and I came up with and overnight schedule that allowed me to sleep for at least 4-5 hours straight and that gave me a good amount of energy to last most of the day.  It's important that you rest because you need to have energy for your baby, but we all know that life gets in the way so make sure you give yourself time to relax even if you don't sleep.

Ask for help:

•  This is a big one that I had no problem with.  Asking for help is so important because if you try to do everything on your own you will drive yourself crazy.  I made sure to let my husband know what I needed from him, and I was so lucky to have my parents around whenever I needed them.  My mother and my sister work close to me and came over to help whenever I asked.  My mom even came over once during her lunch break so I could take a shower (I wasn't comfortable leaving the baby alone yet)  Ask for help its so important for your own mental health.

Don't freak out if he gets a fever:

•  One of my girlfriends told me that I shouldn't freak out the first time my son gets a fever.  I was sure that I wouldn't because I knew that a baby's temperature can range anywhere between 97-100.4 degrees.  Then my son got his vaccination shots, and that night he became feverish.  With all my logic and good sense I freaked out.  The doctor told me that I shouldn't worry because it was normal for him to get a fever and if I wanted I could give him baby Tylenol.  After getting 4 shots I didn't want to give my son anymore medicine.  I stayed up all night checking his temperature every 30 min and keeping him cool.  His temperature never went above 100 and he hasn't had a temperature since.  My advice is to do what is comfortable for you, and my sister-in-law says if you give them some baby Tylenol before that vaccination appointment you can avoid the fever all together.

Don't forget to eat:

• This is easier said then done.  I never forgot to eat, I just didn't always have a chance.  Eating is important because you need to have the energy to take care of your child, and you need nourishment so you can breastfeeding.  I live near a great supermarket but it is not stroller friendly and I can't carry much if I have the baby in the carrier.  Don't feel bad about ordering food now and then, and try to prepare food when the baby is sleeping not just for that moment but for later too.  Its much easier and faster to just reheat something.  These days my husband does most of the food shopping, and on slow days at work he comes home and cooks me lunch.

Follow your instincts:

• Any mother (especially yours) will tell you to follow your instincts, when it comes down to it this is so true.  Books can only tell you so much, and in the end you need to relay of your feelings.  Every baby is different and what works for some baby's might not work for yours.  My instincts always tell me to stay calm because I am sure my son can feel how I feel.  I know that he doesn't always feel good and I don't want my feelings to make him panic.  I truly think that my son is so chill because I am so calm around him.

Every woman has a different experience when they bring their baby home, good luck and remember to take some time out for yourself..

Awesome Apps: Best Baby Monitor

When I was registering for my baby shower I wasn't sure what type of baby monitor to get because I have a small apartment and I wasn't sure if I would even need one.  Video monitors are very expensive, in the end I registered for a video monitor and a basic audio monitor that was much cheaper.  It turned out that I didn't get a monitor as a gift, so I decided I would get the inexpensive basic audio monitor.  It just seemed more practical to get an audio monitor since during the day I knew my son would always be with me in the living room.

After my son was born I realized that I would like a video monitor for the times that I do put him in his crib and I'm upstairs cleaning or showering.  Instead of running out and buying a $100 video monitor I decided to check out the apps store.

I have many apple products, a macbook, iPad, 2 iphones, & an old school iPod that still works.  I figured, there must be a video monitor app.  Of course there were several apps and I decided to try one that was free first, it didn't work very well.  So I sucked it up and spent $5.99 on the Best Baby Monitor app (I don't like paying for apps) That was the best $5.99 I have ever spent.  Once you download this app on your iPhone and iPad you are all set.  You sent up one of your devices facing your baby and you can watch your baby from your phone or ipad.

One of my favorite features is the lullaby feature.  You can choose from 3 lullaby's, Twinkle Twinkle, Brahms Lullaby, and Sweet Dreams.  You can set it to play the lullaby 1, 3 or 5 times in a row, and you can control all these settings from your side.  It even keeps a log for you of the noise made by your child and when he/she is silent.

I really love this app because I can set up my iPad turn on my phone and go take a shower while my son sleeps.  In the summer when I had BBQ's I could put him down to sleep and watch him from outside.  As a new mom I want to watch my baby's every move, and this app allows me to do that.

***As a holiday promotion this app is being sold for $1.99.

The Last 3 Months

For the last three months I have been doing the Mami thing.  It has been an amazing ride so far and everyday I still can't believe I'm a parent.  Every week I try to visit my best friend Nia and she always looks at Francisco and then looks at me and says "you have a baby" and I say "I know its crazy".  You have 9 months to get use to the idea that your going to be a parent, but once it happens it's still unbelievable. 

It has not been an easy ride, there have been ups and downs and lots of things to figure out.  During the first couple of weeks I had some major cabin fever because I was told that I shouldn't exert myself for the first 2 weeks which meant that I shouldn't take long walks or lift anything heavier then my baby (7lbs).  Well I was going crazy, but luckily many friends and family came by to visit and keep me company with the baby.  During week three I got an infection in the milk ducts of my breast and I had a fever for about three days before I new what was happening.

My wonderful and loving husband who was able to stay home and help most day for the first two weeks got wrapped up in the beginning of the football season. He spent several nights hanging out until really late with his friends watching football; I wanted to kill him.  I also felt that he needed to help me out more with keeping the house together.  Instead of killing him we sat down and had a long talk about where I needed him to help. Now things are great and he is more aware of how he can help.  Now that he is super busy at work and is unable to help as much, we have hired 2 of my former students who are college bound to come once a week to clean up and do some laundry.  Now, instead of us cleaning when he is home we are able to spend time relaxing together.

The biggest problem that I had to solve was creating a schedule and routines for me and Francisco.  Now I make sure that I'm up by 9am.  We shower, eat and get dressed.  Mondays and Wednesdays we go to Gymboree. Tuesdays I go to Central Park for the walking tours if weather permits it.  On Thursdays I meet up with my mother and sister for lunch, and Friday I just make sure that we go on a long walk.  As long as I follow this weekly schedule I'm out of the house at least once a day and that makes a big difference.  Usually I also visit Nia at work or go for long walks in Riverside or Central Park.

So now that I have figured out a few things I hope that I can slowly add more activities to my days including this blog...

Riverside Park

Websit: Riverside Park
Location:
158th street  - 58th street on the Hudson

Contact Information:
Riverside Park Fund Office
475 Riverside Drive, Suite 455
New York, NY 10115 ‎
Hours: 
24hours 7days a week

For more information about the Riverside Park & special events click on the link above.

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Riverside Park which spans from 158^th street to 58^th street is a Westsider's favorite park if they are interested in a straight run or bike ride, you can go for miles up or down the Hudson.  If you’re an avid skateboarder or roller blader, you can try out the ramps at the skate park on 108^th street.  If you’re a parent with small or older children, you can spend time at one of the many playgrounds available.  Dog lovers have their choice of dog parks (dog owners guide to Riverside park available online), and if you want to have a bit to eat and a drink you can always go to the Boat Basin on 79^th street or the Peir-i Café which is right in front of Peir-I near the 72^nd street entrance located in the part of the park which is considered Riverside Park South.  I can’t forget all of my athletes, there are also basketball courts, soccer & baseball fields located throughout the park. 

It is Riverside Park South (72^nd street – 58^th street) that I would like to focus on.  This happens to be my favorite part of the park, and what I consider the most beautiful part of the park.  The landscaping is beautifully done with wild grass, flowers and many weeping willow trees.  There are sculptures located throughout this strip and many places to sit and relax or watch the sun set.  Bikes are not allowed throughout this part of the park, which makes it an ideal walk for you and your family.  There are many spots of grass to sit and have a picnic, or if you prefer there are picnic tables and high top tables for your use.  There is even a small patch of turf if front of an old steam train, a perfect place to have a play date or birthday party with your little ones.  The only down side to this part of the park is the lack of bathrooms, the closest bathroom is around 70th street right behind the Peir-i Cafe.

You can always get online and look up all of the special Summer on the Hudson events happening all summer long at Riverside Park.  You can find information about palates, yoga, movies, bike tours, kayaking, tai chi and so much more.

If your on the westside and you looking for something to do, walk over to Riverside Park and enjoy all it has to offer.

Edamame Spa @ Destination Maternity

Website:  Edamamespa
Location:
28 East 57th Street, New York, NY 10022

Contact Information:
(212) 588-1990 ‎
Hours: 
Monday - Friday 10:00-8:00
Saturday - 10:00-7:00
Sunday - 12:00-6:00

The Edamame Spa is located on the Lower Level of Destination Maternity.  They provide all types of services such as facials, massages, body treatments, and enhancements.  While they cater to pregnant women, you don't have to be pregnant to enjoy their services.

For more information about the services provided and prices click on the link above

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I am currently in the 8th month of my pregnancy and I thought I would treat myself to a full body massage since I am in the most uncomfortable part of my pregnancy.  I thought that I would share my experience with you because pregnant or not, all women should treat themselves every now and then.  The last time I was at Destination Maternity I asked for a tour of the spa and was given a coupon for $20 dollars off, so what would have been a $130 massage + tax became a $113 massage.  So I recommend going and getting a tour so you can get the coupon and make your appointment.

Before I go into describing my experience I would like to say that the women who work there are very nice, service was fantastic, and the massage was exactly what I needed; not to mention the best massage I've ever had.

My Experience:
When I walked in the ambiance was very relaxing, the lights were low, there was clamming music and the sound of a waterfall. After filling out some basic paper work I was shown the waiting room which has juices, water and yummy Luna bars. I was then directed to the dressing room where I was given a locker, a cotton robe and slippers.   I was early so I was offered a complementary foot soak. When I went into the waiting room the foot soak was set up and waiting for me. Now as a New Yorker that likes to do five things at once and is always on the go I had no problem adjusting to all this relaxation and pampering. I had no problem leaving my phone in my locker (there is no signal anyway) and just  reading a magazine while I soaked my feet.  After about 10 minutes of reading and drinking my juice one of the women came in with a lovely foot scrub and quickly scrubbed my feet, it was great.

Now let's talk massage.... They have many options and you don't have to be pregnant to come in and get a massage, so all you women out there who have pregnant friends this is  a great gift and excuse to get a massage for yourself.

I decided to get a full body 50 minute mommy to be massage, and it was heaven. There are two ways to get a massage if your pregnant. You can do it on your side with a really comfortable body pillow or they have this cushion with a space for your belly so you can lay face down. They suggest being on your side if your in your third trimester.

Before beginning my masseuse asked me where I wanted her to focus and how much pressure I preferred before getting started. All I can say is that spot on the lower left side of my back feels so good right now and I didn't realize that I had so much tension in my shoulders. She started off massaging the right side of my body, moved on the to left side and then adjusted the table like a reclining chair so I could be on my back (I need one of those tables). She then gently rubbed Mama Mio citrus belly butter all over my belly and massaged my shoulders some more.  She had an amazing touch and applied just the right amount of pressure.

After my massage I went back to the waiting room had some water, a chocolate brownie Luna bar and just relaxed some more. I've never enjoyed relaxing so much in my life and I was afraid they were going to have to throw me out.  I absolutely plan on going back after having my baby for a postnatal massage and maybe even a facial..

The Brooklyn Muesum

Website: brooklynmuseum.org
Location:
200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
Hours:
Monday and Tuesday - Closed

Wednesday - 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Thursday - 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Friday—Sunday - 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

First Saturday of Each Month - 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. See Schedule

Admission:

The Brooklyn Museum has a suggested contribution of $10 for adults and $6 for Seniors and Students with valid I.D. Members and children under 12 accompanied by an adult are admitted for free.

Special Events: 
First Saturdays - On the first Saturday of every month there is an evening of free events sponsored by Target which start at 5pm and end at 11pm.
Thursdays @7 - The Brooklyn Museum is open until 10pm every Thursday.  Visitors are allowed to continue touring the galleries and enjoy the weekly event.  These events include, interviews, performances, films & tours.

For more information about the Brooklyn Museum just click on the link above.

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Today I will be exploring the Brooklyn Museum with one of my oldest and best friends, Lia.  As a teacher I have gone to the Brooklyn Museum many times with my 6th grade class for our unit on Ancient Egypt.  The Egypt collection and the Brooklyn Museum is wonderful and not overwhelming.  They have artifacts ranging from Predynastic Egypt to the New Kingdom.  My favorite artifact is the Book of the Dead, which was considered very important to have in your tomb to help you get through to the afterlife.

While the mummies, canopic jars, and coffins are fun and interesting, you will also find several well place interactive and kid friendly computers to help your little ones learn more about the Ancient Egyptian artifacts.

Since I have been to the Egypt section so many times, today I will be exploring other parts of the museum that I have not seen before.  Please join me on my journey to the Brooklyn Museum, and I hope after reading this you'll make plans to take a journey into Brooklyn to see this wonderful museum for yourself.

Today's visit took me to many parts of the museum that I have never been before.  We started on the 5th floor where we visited the American Identities exhibit in the Luce Center For American Art.

 On that same floor we found the Visible Storage - Study Center. While the American Identities exhibit was wonderful, the Visible Storage felt like we found a hidden closet of art that we were sneaking into.

 Next we made our way down to the 4th floor Where we found the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art.  In this section we found the The Dinner Party by Judy Chicago.  This installment had two parts, the table settings which represented 39 women and the timeline which represented 999 women.  In all 1,038 women in history were represented.  I would have to say that this was my favorite exhibit, it was not only beautiful it was powerful.

I would not recommend these exhibits for young children, I don't think they would find them very interesting but there are many programs for both young children and teens that can be found on the Brooklyn Museum website.  I had a wonderful time visiting the Brooklyn Museum and I hope this post will inspire you to go enjoy it for yourself. 

Extra Info for Mom’s: The Brooklyn Museum is very breast feeding friendly.  The bathrooms on the 1^st floor and 3^rd floor have seating areas and is a great place to go if you need to take a break an feed.  The Café is also a great place to go and have snack while feeding.