I recently realized that other than Cristian's monthly picture on Instagram I haven't given any updates on how I'm doing after his birth. I've always found reading other mothers experiences of birth and labor helpful. And I thought that perhaps this might be helpful for some of you that are either expecting or already had your little one. It's been such a huge learning experience for me having two boys under two and as the saying goes, " it doesn't get easier you just get stronger!"
Physical:
As I mentioned during my Earth Mama Angel Baby review I healed in the perineum area a lot faster with Cristian. However, in terms of abdominal, uterine and overall body healing it's taken a lot longer to bounce back this time around. I think it's definitely a combination of not being in my twenties and having a second little one so quickly after the first. As much as I love how close the boys are in age I didn't anticipate the toll it would take on my body. Recently, my abdominal muscles finally joined together! I am ecstatic because I could fit my fingers through the gap for almost 7 months.
As far as weight, I'm not really putting much notice to it. Although I'm back to my pre-pregnancy size I continue to work hard to gain all of my core strength back and tighten up my wobbly bits! I started up my Bikram yoga that I love so much! Along with walking, and breastfeeding I'm almost to where I'd like to be. I've also finally come to terms with my stretch marks. I didn't have any with Gabriel and silly me I thought it'd be the same this time around. But I have to say that they are a beautiful and constant reminder of birth, growth, and the absolute miracle of pregnancy. Motherhood is such a real and raw experience and I feel so blessed to be able to experience it.
Emotional/Spiritual:
Honestly, give me a good commercial and I'm busting out the tissues! Please tell me I'm not the only one?! I'm just overall more emotional since becoming a mother. It might be the combination of hormones or having two little guys that pull at my heart strings daily. However, I've become more intentional about breathing and meditative time throughout the day. Just saying a short prayer and breathing through the frustration that can be very heightened at times. Even simple tasks like washing the dishes or folding the laundry have been moments where I take the time to be thankful for what we have. It's really been an amazing way to boost my mood and I have been more patient with Gabriel as a result. I am a work in progress, hoping to better myself daily, and through motherhood I've learned the most.
Breastfeeding:
I was just telling B the other day that before we had kiddos I was clueless about breastfeeding. I would have never guessed that it would be such a huge part of my life right now. I never planned on being a breastfeeder either. When I was about 6 months pregnant with Gabriel I started talking to other mothers about it and asking questions. Then I thought, okay I'll try and see if it works out for me. I had no idea that those first few weeks after Gabriel was born would be the toughest. The idea of bleeding nipples and chapped tissue was not something I knew would be a reality! But after that first month with Gabriel, breastfeeding became easier for me and I ended up nursing him for 14 months until he weaned.
With Cristian, it has been so much easier. I hardly had any issues with bleeding or cracked tissue. Also, the painful days of waiting for my milk to come in was drastically shorter and less painful. Our bodies are amazing! Right now I don't pump and I'm basically on demand for him. I know this is not ideal for everyone but it's what works for us. I pump a bottle or two if I know I'll be going to yoga. Otherwise, I exclusively breastfeed. He is also such a fast nurser which has been so helpful with Gabrielito running around!
Social:
I'm so thankful for all of the strong women in my life. My dearest friend of 15 years is also a mother and being able to talk to her about everything is always so refreshing. In my own family, I have my sister and sisters-in-law who are basically my best friends (I lucked out BIG time). It's also been great to meet several mothers in person that are also bloggers and or just momma's I've connected with via Instagram (of all places)! Plus having a few mother connections locally have kept us busy. It's getting easier packing up both boys to go out now that it's summer and Cristian is getting bigger. It's also a lot of fun to see the boys interact and grow together! That has got to be one of the best parts of staying home with them. And of course all of you who write to me and share your stories. I am so humbled that you would take the time to reach out to me. You are a part of my social growth and life as well. So thank you!
It's been a whirlwind (almost) 7 months and I hope to continue to share monthly post partum updates! I hope they are helpful. As always if you have any questions about breastfeeding or other stuff feel free to let me know- I love hearing from you!
Have an amazing weekend!
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