What has worked for you- Advice for Mums to be

[emm11e]

Hi All,

I thought I'd post a new thread about things that have worked for you in the past leading up to a new bub or after the bub's arrived. I am sure that we will all receive different advice from different people, so I thought that it might be a good idea if we share the best (and maybe the worst) of the advice that we receive or tips that we may read about.

For example, I read an interesting take on getting your baby to self settle (without you being in the room). The tip that I read was to reverse the baby monitor, so that the baby can hear your voice and movement and therefore be comforted. Obviously, if it is a feed or a change the bub is after, they will be loud enough to let you know.

Something I had not thought about.

[Butterflies&Hurricanes]

Some of the worst advice I was given was to get a routine going... Yes I agree that a bedtime routine is good but there is no need to force bubs into a daily routine i.e. The Gina Ford way. Thats just my opinion.
Do what suits you... a routine might suit your bubs but a lot of bubs prefer to set their own routine. I demand fed, let him sleep when he wanted to etc. He was a happier baby than when I tried to force him to do it all when I wanted him to.

Another thing was people kept saying I was making a rod for my own back (Grrr I HATE that saying) because I breastfed DS to sleep and I cuddled him whenever he cried... I now have a happy content, independent (!!!) 18 month old that settles himself to sleep (and has done so since about 11 months when he started weaning off the breast...) so dont listen to those people! I loved breastfeeding him to sleep. It was easy and such a wonderful bonding time. Watching him fall asleep was wonderful!

[mumofsamuel]

Being a first time mum, I have no advice that I have actually put to the test. I do however plan to only listen to the advice that I chose to. Someone did tell me that I will get lots of advice from everywhere and don't listen to it all. I think this is great advice.

I also love having the chance to hear advice seasoned mum's were given and get an insite into what actually works for you. I know we're all different but it's a great thread idea.

Fluffball - that is SOOOO sweet about watching bubs fall asleep. That's sooo beautiful. I hope to do that one day.

You know, I never realised that breast feeding was not automatic until I started on the BubHub? Now I know it's hard work and something that you need to work at.

[Butterflies&Hurricanes]

You know, I never realised that breast feeding was not automatic until I started on the BubHub? Now I know it's hard work and something that you need to work at.

Thats right Noosa - breastfeeding doesnt come naturally to everyone. Sometimes it takes a lot of hard work to 'teach' bubs to latch on properly etc. I do believe its worth the effort though.Luckily there are some really helpful organisations out there that can help if you are having problems. But at the end of the day, if its not for you then thats ok too. As long as bubs is fed and is healthy thats all that counts.
I was one of the lucky ones. I put DS there and he latched on staight away no prob. I wish it was that easy for everyone! Its such a wonderful thing to do. I loved it so much. I was so sad when we stopped. although in some ways relieved. But I look forward to breastfeeding this little one too now. :D

[emm11e]

I also thought breastfeeding came naturally. I began this pregnancy by saying I am going to breastfeed and since realising that it is a learning process for both mum and baby, I have now began to say that I hope to breastfeed but I won't be angry or upset if I can't. I don't want to put to much pressure on myself or the baby. If it happens, it happens, if it doesn't it doesn't. All in all as long as the bub has a full belly and is happy I'm fine with that.


I don't have many thoughts on routine as yet. I have just begun to read some information in the books about it, haven't formed an opinion yet though.

[k8y]

The hospital I'm booked in at (The Wesley up in Brisbane) runs breastfeeding classes alongside their antenatal classes so I think I might give this a go. Perhaps new mums can look into what their hospital provides for this for before baby arrives?
How long does everyone breastfeed for? DH was hoping I would be back at work after 7 months leave (taking 4 wks off before bubs arrival) so that would mean only 6 months of breastfeeding :( or can I express a whole days milk?
Some good advice I've had for being a new mum is to make sure everything is all systems go for when you get home and all instructions are read. For example baby monitor hooked up and working, bottles are sterilised, you know how to use your breastpump, steriliser etc, especially if you wake up in the middle of the night with severe mastitis or something when you get home, you don't have to sit there at 2am with an upset bub while trying to read how to use your steriliser and have the change table ready as likely bub will need a change as soon as you walk in the door from the hospital :laughing:

[mumofsamuel]

k8y - great advice about making sure everything is working. I like that idea. It also means I get to play with the new toys before baby arrives which I doubt I will be able to NOT do anyway! I have now made the decision to move back to Sydney once our house sells. We are going into the in-laws house until we find a place to buy down there so I will be DYING to get into our new place and set it all up. I am not buying anything really for fear of having to pack it all up when we move.

And I will be going to the Hills Private in Sydney and I have read they have a nursery where the new mums are encouraged to sit and breastfeed. It's not complusory and you can have someone come to your room but it is apparently quite helpful and gets the new mums chatting too which will be nice. I have been told I don't need to book in yet but I will call them today and ask for myself. I feel so much more at ease now that I know where we're going and we have a plan.

[talavoumama]

Fluffball, that's fantastic to hear how well demand feeding and your other parenting practices are going. It sounds a bit like attachment parenting and exactly how I want to do things but as this is my first and I had encountered a lot of people giving me funny looks or saying I would make things difficult for myself. So it's great to hear your experience as it gives me new confidence!

Also, regarding bf, I was the same as everyone else in thinking it would be a given. I am now enrolled to attend a bf class being held next Saturday by the Australian Breastfeeding Association. It's only $70 and that includes membership for one year which gives you a magazine sub, a book about bf and heaps of support and resources from them.

[DeeJay]

the hardest thing I found being a new mum last time, was actually all the advice that was 'given' asked for or not.

It just got so confusing and ended up really stressing me out and bubs too.

I am now a firm believer in taking it day by day and working out between yourself and your baby what works for you, although this is easier said than done and can be really daunting.

I think I said in another thread that something that helped me enormously was the book 'save our sleep'. It gave me a guideline and then enabled me to work out what works for us, and it was routine that worked.

I think you need to try different things to find what works best and take advice with a grain of salt.

Also, not to feel guilty or be made feel guilty by people who don't agree with your decisions, whether you decide to go demand or routine, or whether you can breast feed or choose bottle, or whether you co-sleep or not etc... etc... There is a really big culture out there of people who are so set in their beliefs that their way is 'the only' way, and that is just not true.

It used to stress me out until I thought, this is my life and my baby's life and as long as we are both happy, that is THE most important thing.

Sorry to ramble...I'll shut up now LOL:o

[Butterflies&Hurricanes]

the hardest thing I found being a new mum last time, was actually all the advice that was 'given' asked for or not.

It just got so confusing and ended up really stressing me out and bubs too.

I am now a firm believer in taking it day by day and working out between yourself and your baby what works for you, although this is easier said than done and can be really daunting.

I think I said in another thread that something that helped me enormously was the book 'save our sleep'. It gave me a guideline and then enabled me to work out what works for us, and it was routine that worked.

I think you need to try different things to find what works best and take advice with a grain of salt.

Also, not to feel guilty or be made feel guilty by people who don't agree with your decisions, whether you decide to go demand or routine, or whether you can breast feed or choose bottle, or whether you co-sleep or not etc... etc... There is a really big culture out there of people who are so set in their beliefs that their way is 'the only' way, and that is just not true.

It used to stress me out until I thought, this is my life and my baby's life and as long as we are both happy, that is THE most important thing.

Sorry to ramble...I'll shut up now LOL:o
:iagree: Good post DeeJay!
Its true, there are many people out there that think their way is the only way! Unfortunately what works for one child doesnt work for another...
I think the best thing a new mum can do is hear all the advice given but take away just want she wants from it.
I strongly recommend reading up on different parenting techniques. You'll get a feel for what you prefer. If reading something makes you feel uneasy then you know its not for you.
I read the Gina Ford books but felt they were too strict and routine based for me. Some of it actually made me cringe. But that doesnt mean I didnt learn anything from it. And I dont judge anyone for following her routines.
Follow you instinct... mummy's instinct is almost always right! Its amazing!

[emm11e]

The hospital I'm booked in at (The Wesley up in Brisbane) runs breastfeeding classes alongside their antenatal classes so I think I might give this a go. Perhaps new mums can look into what their hospital provides for this for before baby arrives?
How long does everyone breastfeed for? DH was hoping I would be back at work after 7 months leave (taking 4 wks off before bubs arrival) so that would mean only 6 months of breastfeeding :( or can I express a whole days milk?
Some good advice I've had for being a new mum is to make sure everything is all systems go for when you get home and all instructions are read. For example baby monitor hooked up and working, bottles are sterilised, you know how to use your breastpump, steriliser etc, especially if you wake up in the middle of the night with severe mastitis or something when you get home, you don't have to sit there at 2am with an upset bub while trying to read how to use your steriliser and have the change table ready as likely bub will need a change as soon as you walk in the door from the hospital :laughing:

That is fantastic advice. I have heard similar in the past. I spend so much time in the bub's half done nursery that I have even packed the nappy bag.

Another little hint that I have is that on this site (I just googled free samples and up it came) users share lists of companies that provide free samples of their products etc. I spent a morning ringing around and emailing the companies and ended up with loads. I'm also asking relatives and friends to do the same for me. I received dummies and nappies and all sorts of lotions and potions that I felt gave me a great base line to start with. With the lotions and potions for those in satchels and small containers I have included them in my nappy bag. For the items used regularly I will get them in the bigger size to include.

For those of you in Newcastle, the JHH offers breastfeeding classes and support also.

[mumofsamuel]

Emm11e - that's a GREAT idea. I will get onto those later on when I have more time. Thanks!:yelclap:

[Milk_Monkey]

Hmm, there are a couple that i could repeat, but to add some variation...

1. Trust in yourself and your instincts. you are all capable intellegent inderviduals, and while you dont neccessarily have all the answers, it is your body and your baby.

AND

2. Make an effort to feel like your old self. Obviously dont push yourself too soon, but get out of the house and challenge yourself to meet people - esp if you dont have many established friends who are parents. Insist upon having 'you' time to have a bath, go for a walk on your own, whatever gives your spirit a kickstart. (That goes for new dads too)
It can be really easy to lose your sense of self when you become a mum (or dad) for a first time. But I truely believe that a happy baby starts with a happy mum and dad.

[k8y]

Hmm, there are a couple that i could repeat, but to add some variation...

1. Trust in yourself and your instincts. you are all capable intellegent inderviduals, and while you dont neccessarily have all the answers, it is your body and your baby.

AND

2. Make an effort to feel like your old self. Obviously dont push yourself too soon, but get out of the house and challenge yourself to meet people - esp if you dont have many established friends who are parents. Insist upon having 'you' time to have a bath, go for a walk on your own, whatever gives your spirit a kickstart. (That goes for new dads too)
It can be really easy to lose your sense of self when you become a mum (or dad) for a first time. But I truely believe that a happy baby starts with a happy mum and dad.

How lovely Milk_Money. I'm now all of a sudden overly emotional and teared up at your last sentence :crying:

I am concerned I'll be an anxious worry mum and my baby will pick up on this and be anxious too so will do my best to stay calm and happy :)

[k8y]

How lovely Milk_Money. I'm now all of a sudden overly emotional and teared up at your last sentence :crying:

I am concerned I'll be an anxious worry mum and my baby will pick up on this and be anxious too so will do my best to stay calm and happy :)

oops I missed out your 'k' Milk_Monkey - if only we did get money for our milk :laughing:

[Myztik]

Best bit of advice I was ever given in regards to parenting was from my mum when ds1 was about 2weeks old. She overheard my friend and I talking about our bubs, saying things along the lines of "I wish he'd smile soon" or "I wish he'd sit up soon" etc etc..
Mum stuck her head around the corner and said "Don't wish their lives away, you'll miss this time when it's gone"

I dont know why but it has stuck with me since and makes me stop and cherish every day of their lives.

[Milk_Monkey]

How lovely Milk_Money. I'm now all of a sudden overly emotional and teared up at your last sentence :crying:

I am concerned I'll be an anxious worry mum and my baby will pick up on this and be anxious too so will do my best to stay calm and happy :)

I'm sure you'll be A-Okay K8y. Everyone gets anxious at some stage, but you learn to recognise your breaking point and address it. Thats why i have found motherhood to be the most amazing experience. I have never ever grown so much as a person as i have since being a mum.

[Milk_Monkey]

Best bit of advice I was ever given in regards to parenting was from my mum when ds1 was about 2weeks old. She overheard my friend and I talking about our bubs, saying things along the lines of "I wish he'd smile soon" or "I wish he'd sit up soon" etc etc..
Mum stuck her head around the corner and said "Don't wish their lives away, you'll miss this time when it's gone"

I dont know why but it has stuck with me since and makes me stop and cherish every day of their lives.


That is so true! And its amazing the stuff you forget.

[mumofsamuel]

emm11e - I've spent the afternoon entering competitions and and Emailing off for free samples. I've not Emailed off to the companies that just do the sachets and things as I don't want to be inundated with so many little things but bottles and dummies and stuff would be great so I just aimed for those kind of ones. It's a great idea though. I found so many great products that I want to BUY along the way so it does the trick. Like do you know one company does these dummies that come with like a cup that it fits into and you add water or something and microwave it to sterilise it? OK it may not be something new but I never knew about them and they seem very nifty indeed! I found SOOOO MANY things that I just want to go out and buy.

My sister said to me on the phone tonight that I shouldn't be holding back on the baby shopping just because we're going to move. It will only end up being one box full and I can package it up as I get it... which is true - so here I come! Why ruin this fun? I'm not going to go nuts but I do want to start getting the things that I will really need now so that I don't feel it hit the pocket all at the same time.

A piece of advice a friend gave me was (after writing out a list for me of exactly what I will need, not including anything I won't need) to buy a small thing each time I do my grocery shopping. Ie. One week, buy a dummy, then the next week, buy some baby bath, etc, etc. Sounds like a plan!

[emm11e]

emm11e - I've spent the afternoon entering competitions and and Emailing off for free samples. I've not Emailed off to the companies that just do the sachets and things as I don't want to be inundated with so many little things but bottles and dummies and stuff would be great so I just aimed for those kind of ones. It's a great idea though. I found so many great products that I want to BUY along the way so it does the trick. Like do you know one company does these dummies that come with like a cup that it fits into and you add water or something and microwave it to sterilise it? OK it may not be something new but I never knew about them and they seem very nifty indeed! I found SOOOO MANY things that I just want to go out and buy.

My sister said to me on the phone tonight that I shouldn't be holding back on the baby shopping just because we're going to move. It will only end up being one box full and I can package it up as I get it... which is true - so here I come! Why ruin this fun? I'm not going to go nuts but I do want to start getting the things that I will really need now so that I don't feel it hit the pocket all at the same time.

A piece of advice a friend gave me was (after writing out a list for me of exactly what I will need, not including anything I won't need) to buy a small thing each time I do my grocery shopping. Ie. One week, buy a dummy, then the next week, buy some baby bath, etc, etc. Sounds like a plan!

I have been buying bits and pieces when I do my grocery shopping since I think even before I knew I was pregnant (As you can imagine my stash is pretty huge). I am just concentrating on maternity pads and breast pads at the moment and I'll throw a couple in the trolley when I am out. I have also been buying nappies when they are sale so when the time comes DP won't be rushing around buying things before I come home. My situation is that I don't get paid maternity leave (I'm sure much like others) so I am trying to do everything as cheaply as possible (without compromising on safety). I have been buying alot of baby clothes from second hand shops, I end up with good quality clothes that look new and I am paying a fraction of the price. I have ended up with many brands like OshKosh, Pumpkin Patch, Fred Bare, Esprit etc for between 50 cents and item to $2 max. My theory is that they will grow out of them so fast, there is no harm buying second hand (they don't know).

I bought a J & J giftpack from Target before Christmas that was on sale for $40, but it had all of the necessities in the largest sizes, bath wash, moisturizer, wipes etc and it even came with a hooded towel.

One really good company for samples (and I hope I am allowed to post it here) is New Directions an aromatherapy company based in Sydney. You are allowed 5 samples and you get to choose the products! I've ended up with nappy rash balm, massage oil, body wash, Colic tummy rub, shampoo. They come is small-Medium bottles depending the product and are perfect for the first try.

Noosa- they also have dummies that close in on themselves now. I have only seen them at Toys R Us, they are nearly $8 for one, but if the dummy is dropped etc it folds into itself so the teat doesn't touch the ground or anything it shouldn't.

[tuttifrutti]

excellent tips there! When I signed up for the Blackmore's newsletter there is also a free sample bag. I haven't done anything yet! I'm a bit superstitious about buying anything.

[mumofsamuel]

emm11e - I'd never thought of second hand shopping before. What a great idea! I mean they DO out-grow them soooo fast and why not? You just make sure you wash them first. I am going to keep an eye out for cute little bargains - thanks!

And I think most of us are in the same boat re no maternity pay... but anyone who IS in a job where they get paid to look after their baby for ANY amount of time, KEEP THAT JOB! If not, I will happily take it for them! Those jobs are hard to come across. Hey, I work for my step dad and he laughed at me the other day when I mentioned annual leave and told me I won't be getting any (I am owed 6 weeks - long storry but not good things going on in our family right now). Anyway that's a WHOLE other story and I'm working on getting out of this situation. But why say that to your pregnant step daughter? ******* PS. DH also working here too so same situation with him too... :no:

And wow, I will check out the dummies that cave in too. Sounds like a neat party trick!

Hey, has anyone done that Bub-Hub pram ribbon thing yet? I think I read in another month's thread the other day that it takes ages for them to come so maybe we should start doing it soon so that we have them before the bubs' arrive.

Sorry for depressed sounding thread. Today is my Monday so am never happy on my Monday... :crying:

[emm11e]

I haven't thought of the pram ribbon things yet. A good idea to order one now then.

Everything that I have been buying second hand I have been putting in napisan, napisan, napisan. It's like a factory production line in my laundry (best get used to it). I haven't heard about the Blackmores one. I am going to jump on the site and have a look now.

I am going to the second hand shops in another week so I am hoping to have found many more bargains to add to my collection. The couple of things I wouldn't consider buying second hand are the car seat (we bought brand new) and the cot mattress.

This question goes out to everyone, has anyone used or knows someone who has used in the past the combination sound and movement monitors for their babies? I am very interested in buying one but I was wondering if anyone had any feedback about it.

[k8y]

emm11e - I'd never thought of second hand shopping before. What a great idea! I mean they DO out-grow them soooo fast and why not? You just make sure you wash them first. I am going to keep an eye out for cute little bargains - thanks!

And I think most of us are in the same boat re no maternity pay... but anyone who IS in a job where they get paid to look after their baby for ANY amount of time, KEEP THAT JOB! If not, I will happily take it for them! Those jobs are hard to come across. Hey, I work for my step dad and he laughed at me the other day when I mentioned annual leave and told me I won't be getting any (I am owed 6 weeks - long storry but not good things going on in our family right now). Anyway that's a WHOLE other story and I'm working on getting out of this situation. But why say that to your pregnant step daughter? ******* PS. DH also working here too so same situation with him too... :no:

And wow, I will check out the dummies that cave in too. Sounds like a neat party trick!

Hey, has anyone done that Bub-Hub pram ribbon thing yet? I think I read in another month's thread the other day that it takes ages for them to come so maybe we should start doing it soon so that we have them before the bubs' arrive.

Sorry for depressed sounding thread. Today is my Monday so am never happy on my Monday... :crying:

I am also in a job where unfortunately I don't get paid for maternity leave either. I work full time and study part time at uni, so all my annual leave gets used up to do assignments, study and do exams, so I won't get any annual leave payout when I finish up :(

NoosaMumToBe - thats really terrible about you losing your annual leave owed? :mad: I'm sorry to hear that a member of your family is doing the wrong thing by you. I'm not sure how things stand but perhaps if you mention you'll lodge a claim form with the Dept of Employment and Industrial Relations he may toe the line? and if not, lodge it anyway? That's really unfair :(

PS I think I've been feeling some flutterings the last couple of days :smiliedance: first time felt when I must have squished bub by rolling over onto my tummy.

[Little Gorilla]

My number one tip....meet some other mums...either before you have bub or after - having a strong support network when you have a baby is sooooo valuable. I didn't have one and relied too heavily on DP solely - it was too much for both of us.

I'm now due with no. 2 and have a much wider circle of mummy friends - I feel alot more relaxed when I think about what to do with no. 2 - just having someone that can come round and help you with breastfeeding that has actually done it recently (ie not your mother or mother in law too long since they did it).

Also, you nourished your bub for 9 months while in your tummy, you birthed your little bundle of joy....YOU know what to do...trust your judgement as a mother.:thumbsup:

[k8y]

This question goes out to everyone, has anyone used or knows someone who has used in the past the combination sound and movement monitors for their babies? I am very interested in buying one but I was wondering if anyone had any feedback about it.

I am also interested in this combo which I haven't heard of before? I was going to buy both a sound and a movement monitor separately, but if you can buy a combo then surely it must be cheaper?

[Little Gorilla]

I had an Angel Care monitor - it has a pad that you put under the baby's matress for movement sensor and then a portable sound monitor.

If the baby doesn't move for a certain period of time a loud alarm goes off.

Just make sure you get the settings right on the sensor pad ie if you do it too sensitive you can have the alarm go off for no reason (like we did and nearly had a heart attack a couple of times).

I would say one of these monitors is a top priority.....however, so would doing a course so you know how to resussitation on a baby too - just in case - you can never be too prepared.

[k8y]

My number one tip....meet some other mums...either before you have bub or after - having a strong support network when you have a baby is sooooo valuable. I didn't have one and relied too heavily on DP solely - it was too much for both of us.

Excellent idea! Does anyone have any good ideas on how you go about meeting other mum's in your area? I'm in the unfortunate situation of being the first in my circle of friends to have a baby, so I feel a bit out of the loop already. Thank goodness for this forum and you lovely ladies :thumbsup:

[Little Gorilla]

Excellent idea! Does anyone have any good ideas on how you go about meeting other mum's in your area? I'm in the unfortunate situation of being the first in my circle of friends to have a baby, so I feel a bit out of the loop already. Thank goodness for this forum and you lovely ladies :thumbsup:

1. post on bubhub for a meet in your area...a coffee before babies are born with a big group of preggie mummies could be fun !!!!!:D
2. you will get to meet mums when you go to your local health clinic once bubs is born.
3. stroller walking groups after bubs is born. have a look on your council website to see what free things they offer in your community ie mums & bubs yoga, get fit classes, pram pushes etc.

[emm11e]

I am also interested in this combo which I haven't heard of before? I was going to buy both a sound and a movement monitor separately, but if you can buy a combo then surely it must be cheaper?


I have looked into the Angel Care one (I think that is what it is called) and there is also a Tommy Tippee one. They are around $200 brand new, but I think it brings greater comfort to new parents minds. I think I will definitely invest in one of these. St John Ambulances also run first aid for children courses. I looked into doing one in the Newcastle area and I am hoping to complete it before the baby is born. Maybe looking to see if the hospital runs similar courses.

In terms of meeting other Mums, I am quite fortunate to know a few other girls who are due around the same time as me, I think that it definitely has added benefits. A couple of my friends had babies towards the end of last year. They have weekly "play groups" where the bubs play and they get to eat cake and talk. I would really be interested if something like that is available in Newcastle!

[supermumof3]

a litlle silly but not really something i considered before having babies is to buy a few cheap pairs of dark coloured knickers for hospital after bubs is born as the bleeding can be quite heavy u seem to get through them soo quickly and u dont want to be ruining your nice,expensive ones

[BeautifulBoys]

a litlle silly but not really something i considered before having babies is to buy a few cheap pairs of dark coloured knickers for hospital after bubs is born as the bleeding can be quite heavy u seem to get through them soo quickly and u dont want to be ruining your nice,expensive ones

Yes I did that too supermumof2!!

You will get lots of conflicting advice from the midwives~doc, do it this way, no do it that way.. grrrr:shame: it reduced me to tears a few times:( they were all nice but just all had different opinons about B/feeding etc, so I didn't know who to listen too.. very frustrating!! when your a first time mother.
So take it all in, but listen to your own instincts, or your close Mum/friends that have children.
That was the hardest thing about being in hospital for me.
The first day after we had DS we had the day to ourselves, to recover(i had an emerg c-section) & take it all in, being parents for the first time.
Have a really good debrief with the OB if you had a c-section, making sure all went well & there was no complications etc.
Thats all for now.

[mumofsamuel]

Oh wow, there has been so much happen in this thread since I last looked at lunch time today!

emm11e - Sorry can't help re those monitors - have never heard of them. will Google though as they sound like they'd come in handy.

k8y - Thanks for your sympathy with the job situation and I know my rights and know I am entitled to holidays so I will fight to the death for them! will go to ind relations if need be! And congrats on the flutterings! I hear they will only get stronger and more regular from now on. It must be so reassuring to finally feel this little thing inside your tummy!!! And I know what you mean about having more people around you. This is why we're trying to move interstate. DH's family is much more supportive than mine are so we're moving closer to them again. His family are less stress too! I do feel like BubHub has taken the lonely feeling away quite a bit. Since I moved to Noosa 2yrs ago I've felt a little lonely but it didn't really hit me until I fell pregnant. Then I just wanted to be near friends and family. It does help to be able to chat to other pregnant ladies too. I spend SOOOO much time on this thing I think I'm addicted. It's a good outlet. You were asking about meeting other new mums. Where are you?

BubbaGanoush - I've had many people say the same thing about support circle and I feel like I already need it! I can't imagine how badly I will need it after bub is born. I understand what you mean.

And supermumof2 - not silly at all re dark undies - quite GENIOUS actually. Will have to remember that one!

[k8y]

1. post on bubhub for a meet in your area...a coffee before babies are born with a big group of preggie mummies could be fun !!!!!:D
2. you will get to meet mums when you go to your local health clinic once bubs is born.
3. stroller walking groups after bubs is born. have a look on your council website to see what free things they offer in your community ie mums & bubs yoga, get fit classes, pram pushes etc.

Thanks for the great advice BubbaGanoush :).

I'm in Brisbane on the southside NoosaMumToBe and glad you will have better support with your DH's family. I'm not aware of anyone in the June 08 due yet who is around this area (or dues in other months who've popped in for a peek) - speak up anyone if you are :wave:

I've posted in the parenting and parents to be in brisbane here today after your post and have met 2 new ladies in the area so far!

I've also ordered my pram ribbon - early I know, perhaps I can wear it in my hair until bub arrives :laughing:

I've also checked the council website and the pram walks organised are pretty dismal - only 4 suburbs advertised and none near me :( Hopefully by the time bub arrives I will have made enough friends with other mums in the area to organise our own walks.

I was also going to mention baby swimming classes. I am seriously looking forward to these, have always been a big fan of the water - does anyone know the minimum age for starting these? I heard it was 3 months old, but not sure :confused:

PS yep the flutterings are very reassuring, have been so excited and on edge to feel something!

[mumofsamuel]

Hey, here's another idea for meeting people: Aqua Aerobics. Many friends have told me it's an amazing feeling to be weightless in the water when pregnant, especially when you start to get quite large... you'd meet other preggie ladies there too I'd assume.

[Milk_Monkey]

Aqua is great when you are pregnant! As is pregnancy yoga or the like.

[k8y]

Hey, here's another idea for meeting people: Aqua Aerobics. Many friends have told me it's an amazing feeling to be weightless in the water when pregnant, especially when you start to get quite large... you'd meet other preggie ladies there too I'd assume.

Thanks for the great advice. I have searched the internet :geek: for an hour trying to find antenatal aqua aerobics and no luck :hair: The only two locations I could see in brisbane are 45 mins away, too far!

I guess I could do normal aqua aerobics at the local gym and hope they're not too much stress on little macca. It just ruins the whole idea of making friends with other preggy ladies :(

There is also 'yogababy' but it's on at 7pm to 8.30pm on a friday night - the day and time seems so impractical :rolleyes:

If anyone here from Brisbane knows of any of classes on the southside, I will be extremely grateful :thumbsup: