Let's Start From The Beginning...YAY YOU ARE PREGNANT!

You never forget the feeling when you stare at those pink lines. My husband was at work when I took my first positive test. Though we had discussed trying, my first instinct was wondering if he would be upset! Looking back, that is hilarious to me, but at the time I really didn't know what to think. It is easy to say that your life is about to dramatically change, but knowing how or when can feel overwhelming.

It's worth noting that nine months is quite a long time! Thankfully, unlike dogs, we have more than 63 days to make all the necessary preparations. In case you find yourself with less time due to an extra surprise, there's no need to panic! Just trust your instincts and rely on your support system (which includes me!).

While I won't provide medical advice, I can offer suggestions on items to have on hand, items to hold off on, and factors to take into account.

Social Media is definitely a relevant subject to discuss here. I recall searching online to see if it was appropriate to share my pregnancy journey on social media with Addison. I shared the news the day I reached the 12-week mark according to my app. Reflecting on it now, I cringe. With more life experience, I felt more at ease waiting until after my 20-week anatomy scan before announcing my pregnancy with Lincoln. Bottom line is do what feels right to you since there is risk.

Here are my favorite Instragram accounts to follow:

1. @prenatalnutritionist

2. @thebellemethod

3. @karrie_locher

4. @takingcarababies

5. @emsnell

6. @lowsupplymom (even if you do not have a low supply the knowledge gained is awesome!)

Reflect on your habits. What are you eating and drinking? What products are you using? What are you doing in your spare time? What are you doing to support your mental and emotional health? You do not have to change everything, nor do you have to listen to all the noise. BUT it feels good to be proud of the decisions you made during the time you are carrying your baby.

What To Purchase:

• Prenatal vitamins!

• Be food conscious! I read Real Food For Pregnancy and took bits and pieces but do what feels right to you.

• Do you want an easy read that doesn't feel like a parenting book telling you what to do? Choose Bringing Up Bebe! It is my favorite.

• Nauseous? Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) and Unisom (Doxylamine) are your friends! I followed THIS site for recommended doses...but you know I am going to tell you to consult OB here!

• A good body oil. I love Bio-Oil and swear by it.

• The Belle Method's Push & Prep Course. Addison was 9lbs 9oz and I owe SO much to Nikki and her course. It is an 8 week session and I started at 30 weeks.

• An Instax Camera or Mini Photo Printer! Or both?! You have to document that cute little growing bump!

What To Wait To Purchase:

• Pregnancy Pillows. Wait until you are actually uncomfortable. There are so many on the market that can support specific painful areas. I was lucky enough to not feel I needed anything past a small lumbar pillow I already had.

• Baby items. I know it may be on sale or you can't help it, but my vote is to add it to the registry. Your community will be equally as excited to purchase the item(s) for you!

• Pregnancy-Only Clothing. I know this is a hot take, but "bump-friendly" clothing is trending on many clothing sites and can be worn pre- and post-baby. I am all for stocking up on clothes you feel confident in, but it makes sense to avoid purchasing strictly "maternity" clothes that will only last such a short season.

• Pregnancy Journal. Unless you are an avid journalist these are quick to go by the wayside. Instead of a journal just for your time being pregnant, consider adding pages to a "first years" baby book (I have Lucy Darling's for both kids!) or purchasing The Wonderful Things You Will Be and adding sweet love notes or stories to your baby.

• Colostrum Collectors. You may be really dedicated to the idea of doing everything you can to prepare for breastfeeding. That is wonderful! Do your research, consult your OB, and see if you are lucky enough to actually start producing colostrum before the baby is born. If you are producing, Amazon has your back with fast shipping! Consider Haakaa Colostrum Collectors

What did I miss?!