How to survive life with a newborn

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Let’s be honest here: I’m barely keeping it together. My house is a mess, I’m barely sleeping and let’s just say I’m not looking my best. But you know what? I wouldn’t change it for the world. Here’s some tips on how to survive having a newborn from one Mombie to another. Hint: treat yourself.

Being pregnant in the summer is rough for many reasons. Swollen feet, frizzy hair, HUGE belly…plus NO WINE. One of my favorite summer pastimes is sitting on the patio with a chilled glass of wine after the kids finally crash. Since Liam was born in August, I had a grand plan of being able to take back my summer after he was born.

What is wrong with me?! My momnesia struck again and I forgot how hard it is to have a newborn…plus other kiddos at home! Liam seriously wants me to hold him all day long and he actually appreciates my silly songs I sing. After a long day parenting, there is nothing better than a great glass of wine…especially when you’re a Mombie (Mom Zombie).

The few glasses of wine I can enjoy a week are always much appreciated. Since I don’t want to pick a bad bottle that will give me a headache on top of sleep deprivation, I choose JaM wines. Trust me. And the best news? Under $20 and in a store right near you.

I am so glad I discovered JaM wine at Meijer last month. I always waiver between red or white wine, depending on my meal. Both JaM Cabernet and JaM Butter are delicious, I promise. Plus, their website has a sense of humor, which I greatly appreciate. For instance: Back to School Survival Tips.

Since it’s still warm-ish outside, I really have enjoyed Butter. Although I’m usually gravitate towards the sweeter white wines, this Chardonnay is perfection. After tasting, you’ll totally get why it’s called Butter: it truly melts in your mouth! I appreciate that it’s bold and rich, something you don’t normally find with a white wine.

I have always been a Cab girl and this one is my JaM. Hehe, get it? JaM? This will be my go-to for any gathering, especially in the cooler months. I think Cabernet is so easy to love because of it’s fruity base- this has notes of blackberries, black plums and more. I can’t help but think about pairing this with a great roast on a cool fall day.

Aside from treating myself with a glass of wine, I’m really trying to focus on taking care of myself FIRST during this chaotic time.

Here are a few tips to surviving those crazy few months with a newborn:

Take a shower. This is quite obvious to some, but when you’re sleep deprived and stressed, it’s not always top priority. Put your little one in their bassinet or crib and take a 10 minute shower. It will do WONDERS. I usually skip shampoo and just use conditioner and a nice, moisturizing body wash. Umm, you probably have puke on you.
Find a podcast. I had every intention on catching up on my book list this summer and life got in the way. My new obsession while I’m cooking is listening to podcasts. There are SO many out there, so have fun! My favorites:
- Bitch Sesh: a Real Housewives recap, plus tons of humor. It’s seriously amazing if you watch Bravo.
- Brain Candy: two MTV Challenge alums cover both pop culture and amazing topics. I learn so much!
- POTY: Parents of the Year. I laugh out loud with this couple who also has a family with 4 kids. Their honesty is refreshing and I can relate in so many ways.
- 2 Dope Queens: I love stand up comedy and they have some great comedians grace their podcast.
- My Favorite Murder: highly recommended by my friends, this is my newest favorite. If you liked Serial, try this!
Make a coffee bar. Since Starbucks entails DRIVING, make a fun coffee bar in your kitchen. I love flavored syrups and splurging on a big bag of my favorite beans from Costco. Making your own saves big bucks, too!
Snuggle. Time honestly FLIES, snuggle as much as you can with your little one. Smell that fab new baby smell (seriously, why don’t they make that a candle instead of ‘new car’?). Sing funny songs. Talk to them like they’re your BFF. Enjoy these fleeting moments!