A Letter to My Pregnant Self

Dear Pregnant Me,

I hear you’re pregnant. I also hear you’re feeling a little nervous and confused about a lot of things that go along with your soon-to-be mom status. I write this to tell you that you are not alone. It’s totally normal to feel this way midway through your pregnancy – it’s normal and we will get through it. That’s why I’m here – to make getting through it easier. You have enough to worry about. Now put those swollen feet up, take a load off and relax.

First things first, your sweet, well-meaning friends are throwing you a baby shower. You’ve heard of baby showers. You’ve even seen them on TV. You’ve even been to one – your cousin Sheila’s. Going to a baby shower is easy, but preparing for one is… overwhelming. You have to fill that baby registry with things you need for when this baby pops out of you. (Sidebar: babies don’t actually “pop” out, but more on that later.) The problem with baby registries? You have no idea what you actually need. Start thinking about you first. Let me help demystify things a little. Here goes.

No Shame in The Self-Care Game

Right now, everyone is focused on you and your belly. How far along are you? How are you feeling? Boy or girl? Nursery room color and design? Once that baby is here, the focus shifts to the baby. Don’t forget that you are important too. Self-care should always be at the top of your list. Biggest lesson I learned? Ask for help. Just ask. And you’ll be surprised how many people are dying to help.

I expect you to ask someone to watch the baby when you go take a shower. I’m talking about the real deal kind of shower where the hot water runs out. You need it. So get it!

Do the Right Thing… For You

You’re about to get a TON of advice. From literally everyone you know. Even people you don’t know. That lady you pass on the street who never talks or looks at you? She cannot wait to give you advice on how to raise your baby. The advice never stops. So, here’s my advice… But this is good advice. I swear! Don’t worry about what anyone says. Find what works for you. Follow your instincts. Every baby is different and has different needs. Every mom is different and has different needs. We’re all different and have to do what works for us.

But What Do I Put on the Baby Registry?

I’m here to tell you. You are now ready for the Baby Registry. First things first – Get the practical stuff – diapers, wipes, diapers, wipes, and more diapers and even more wipes. Boy, are you going to need those. I’ve heard tales of babies who never cry (yeah right) or babies who have slept through the night since they were two days old (that’s a lie!), but I’ve never heard of a baby who didn’t need diapers or wipes. My recommendation? Huggies Diapers and Wipes. Huggies Diapers will fit your baby’s bottom like a hug with a comfortable and gentle fit. Have you ever thought that diapers are the one thing that touch your baby’s skin the most? Crazy, huh? You will spend a lot of time picking out the soft blankets, sheets and onesies but those things won’t touch your babies skin as much as diapers will. Huggies Diapers and Wipes are a great combo for healthy, huggable skin. Huggies Little Snugglers have a soft pocketed waistband that prevents blowouts and protects your baby’s skin. This may not seem like a big deal to you right now, but trust me on this one. If you don’t have good diapers, you won’t have a good day. That has to be a saying somewhere. Huggies Baby Wipes provide a gentle clean for your baby’s delicate skin. Sidebar: wipes are good for taking off makeup too.

Talk Talk Talk

Last but not least, talk to someone, whether it’s a friend, a family member or a stranger. Just talk about what’s hard and how you’re feeling. Those advice givers will become a great support network. They’ve been there. They know how hard it is. That’s why they can’t stop giving advice. They think it’s helpful! Talk, talk, and talk some more.

You’ve got this. Now, go get ‘em.

Your friend,

Me

P.S. This letter is for anyone who is pregnant and needs a hug. Read it and read it again if you need to. I hope it helps.