One of the Best Gifts for a New Mom

I read a post recently about new moms having a hard time getting used to the new baby and getting adjusted to their new selves.

It made me think back on becoming a new mom. I remember how slowly I walked as I was recovering. I was sleep deprived and cranky. I didn't feel myself. I was also hungry all the time due to breastfeeding and constantly made these little oat, peanut butter and flaxmeal "energy balls" to help with milk production. Becoming a first-time mom is a huge change and can be a real challenge to get used to.

Some things that helped me were, walks outdoors, watching my favorite shows late at night when baby was up, seeing friends for fika (much harder during Covid), and of course sleeping when the baby slept.

Clothes or toys for baby, are nice gifts but often people forget the mom. Snacks for the mom are appreciated. Little practical items even, like items to help breastfeeding (a pump or even nipple cream) are also useful. However, I think one of the best gifts as a new mom is a home-cooked meal. 

It takes energy to cook something, or even go to the grocery store to buy items (now there's grocery delivery fortunately). As a new mom, you are often up all night with the baby. 

For friends who have just had babies, I have prepared one of my favorite chicken dishes, with garlic and ginger, and omitted anything that could make the breast-fed baby gassy like onions, broccoli, or mushrooms. 

I've dropped it off for them, listened to how they've been and sometimes even washed dishes or held the baby so they could use the bathroom.

All babies are different and it can be a challenging time for new moms and first-time parents. Helping out or even asking how they are doing means so much more than you think.

Don't forget your snacks!