Although breastfeeding is natural, natural doesn’t always mean easy. Between latch and supply issues, infections, leaking, the struggles of pumping while working, the occasional social stigma for nursing in public, (and I could go on and on), it can be a stressful journey, adding to the pressures of an already stressful situation of having a little one to care for.
Current Catchphrase
I know some of us have a word for the year. Something that calls to us or something to focus our intentions on. You can read about my word for the year here. While I like having that specific word, after having Shep, I’ve also been drawn to a specific phrase: Just try Baby didn’t …
SJB’s Birth Story
I have always loved reading or hearing people’s birth stories and many people have been curious to hear how things went this time so here goes. To follow suit with how the rest of this pregnancy has been, spoiler alert, everything was harder. I’ll try to keep the story to the point while still giving you the details. Here is Shepherd’s birth story.
Four Weeks With Shep
Shepherd James Bell, SJB, has been with us now for four weeks! To say it’s been a whirlwind would be an understatement. Lots of days have been trying and have resulted in lost patience or frustration or overwhelming anxiety. I’ve had my share of sob sessions. Some for good reasons, some probably for no reason …
Baby Number Two: Third Trimester Part Two
I've hit my due date! Which they tell me is an arbitrary number and guesstimate but also that if I don't deliver as we get into week 41, we'll need to talk induction. I feel a sense of accomplishment for making it full term and I've been patient but now I feel as though I'm on a timeline that isn't my baby's or my own.
Baby Number Two: Third Trimester Part One
We've been busy with holidays, birthdays, activities, me finishing up writing my book (available early May!), and just life! But we are chugging along well and enjoying our family time.
The Last…
Can you believe it's the end of March already? I can't! Here are my lasts...
The Best Money We’ve Spent Lately…
We’ve been pondering the idea of a play set for awhile now and after some research and lots of searching, we took the plunge! Our neighborhood has a great playground but it stays pretty crowded and with having a little one on the way and expecting to continue to spending plenty of time at home, we decided we wanted to get our own thing. Plus, Pfeiffer loved the idea of having her very own swing.
Baby Number Two: Second Trimester Part Two
Finishing up my second trimester and happy to almost be close to a home stretch (okay, I know I still have a ways to go but just saying third trimester sounds like a win). Baby is the size of a water bottle or a large bottle of Sriracha sauce.
Call Me a Tree…
Happy Valentine’s Day! Hope you take the day to love on yourself and those closest to you. Instead of doing a traditional post of date ideas or self-care tips or gift ideas, I thought I’d share my love jams playlist with you.
Erika Reid Bell 