04/21/2022
At this time last year, I wrote a post about the things my son had taught me within the first few weeks.. it’s now been a year and I could go on forever about how in love with him I am.
Being a parent comes with so many ups and downs, but here are a few more things I have learnt along the way.
• No one can tell you what is and isn’t right for your family.
I often hear statements like “Wow, you came back to work early. Starting daycare at 7 months is too soon..etc” Yes, starting work after 9 weeks and back to seeing in-person patients at 4 months may have seemed early, but it’s all parents get in the US, so why is it that crazy? I’m the kind of person that needs mental stimulation and it made me cherish the time I got to spend with my son even more.
• You can do anything if you set your mind to it.
My goal was to exclusively breastfeed for 1 yr to reduce his risk of Crohn’s disease, and I’m so proud I was able to accomplish this. There were many times during my journey where I was pumping 3x/day 4 days a week and thought about how much easier it would be to switch to formula. I understand breastfeeding doesn’t come naturally and isn’t for everyone, but it was something I felt strongly about based on our familial risk.
•Check in on those around you.
People would ask me “how do you do it all, working with a baby at home”? Although it may have seemed like it was smooth sailing, there were times it was pure chaos. I couldn’t have done it without the help around me and I’m sure others feel the same way. Offer help to others wherever you can.
•It’s hard to remember to take care of yourself.
The kids, the dog, the laundry, the dinner, the cleaning, it all seems to be a never ending to-do list. Carving out time for yourself has been way harder than I expected.
•And last but not least, this past year has shown me how much joy this little person has brought to our lives; his naive little eyes lighting up at the smallest of things we take for granted. It has further ignited the passion inside me to help those struggling with infertility make their dreams a reality.
Virtually hugging everyone out there that needs one right now.