We did it! We officially made it through our first month with our baby girl — postpartum, sleep-deprived, and somehow still standing — all while juggling two very rambunctious older kids.
It wasn’t easy. Our baby’s delivery came with a few surprises (our baby girl had shoulder dystocia), and with family living far away, we didn’t exactly have a big village to lean on. For the most part, it was just my husband and me, figuring it out day by day.
If you asked me what the hardest part was, I’d tell you: it wasn’t the newborn stage. I actually love the newborn stage — the snuggles, the tiny yawns, the little coos. What truly stretched me was taking care of my older kids. Keeping their routines going — school, daycare, dance lessons — while also navigating newborn life was no small feat.
Making lunches, picking outfits, cooking meals, staying engaged in conversations… all while running on what felt like zero sleep — that was the real challenge.
Everyone always says, “Sleep when the baby sleeps,” but honestly, that just doesn’t work for me. Sure, there are days when my energy tank is completely empty and I squeeze in a nap when I can — but most of the time, I prefer to stay busy. I feel better mentally when I’m up and doing things, even if it’s just folding laundry while watching a show or listening to a podcast.
I like to keep my space tidy, and with three kids, cleaning and organizing feels like a full-time job — especially when it comes to sorting out clothes they’ve outgrown (which happens way too fast!). I also love home-cooked meals and baking, and it makes me feel good when my kids come home to something homemade.
So while naps don’t usually happen for me, I’ve leaned into what does work — and now I want to share those things with you, in case you’re in the thick of it too.
9 Things That Helped Me Survive the First Month Postpartum
1. Morning Me-Time
I’m not someone who can roll out of bed and immediately launch into parenting mode. I try to wake up just a bit earlier than the kids — brush my teeth, wash my face, get dressed, and sneak downstairs for a quiet coffee. I can’t do it every day (thanks, unpredictable newborn sleep!), but when I do, the difference in my mood is undeniable.
2. Getting Dressed (Even if I’m Staying Home)
There was one morning early on when my daughter came home from school, looked at me, and said, “Mama… you’re still in your pajamas??” 😅 It made me laugh — but it also reminded me how much better I feel when I take just a few minutes to get ready. Even something as simple as brushing my hair, putting on leggings, and swiping on a bit of concealer helps me feel more like me.
It also sets an example for the kids — showing them the importance of self-care, even on the hard days. I want them to grow up knowing that it’s okay to take time for yourself, to feel good in your own skin, and to show up for the day with confidence — even if it’s in cozy clothes and a messy bun.
3. Evening Recharge Time
Once the big kids are in bed, I try to carve out a little time just for me. Some nights it’s a long shower, other nights it’s a quick bath (make sure you’re cleared for those postpartum!). It’s simple, but it helps me reset mentally.
4. Feeding My Mind While Doing Chores
While the baby naps, I pop in my earbuds and turn on something uplifting — usually a podcast or an inspiring YouTube video. It helps make chores feel less like, well… chores. Bonus if you actually enjoy cleaning and organizing (I secretly do!).
5. Getting Outside for a Walk
Even a short walk can work wonders for your mood and energy. My recovery wasn’t easy (episiotomy + postpartum pre-eclampsia = rough!), but when I could manage a short stroll, it felt like medicine for my mind and body.
6. Little Moments with My Partner
It’s so easy to let your relationship take a backseat during newborn life. I’m not talking about intimacy — sometimes you’re just not ready for that, and that’s OK. But sitting down for tea, chatting while the baby sleeps, or walking together with the stroller and daydreaming together — those little connections matter.
7. Staying in Touch with Friends
Even a simple “thinking of you” text can go a long way. Postpartum can feel isolating, but staying connected — even in small ways — helps you feel more human and less alone.
8. One-on-One Time with the Older Kids
Sometimes it’s just five minutes: cuddling on the couch, reading a book, coloring together. It doesn’t need to be a big event — it just needs to be intentional. My kids are in the pretend play phase (doctor, teacher, etc.), and joining in, even briefly, lights up their world. I can see it in their eyes — the joy when I say yes, and the disappointment when I say no So I try. Even when I’m exhausted, I try. These little moments mean everything. And I know these moments won’t last forever…
9. Giving Myself Grace
You’re not going to do it all perfectly. Some days the house will be a mess. Some days you’ll forget to switch the laundry. Some days you’ll lose your patience. And that’s OK.
Take a deep breath. Remind yourself: I’ll get to it tomorrow. And if your kids are old enough, get them involved! (My middle child loves cleaning toilets — no idea why, but I’m not questioning it! 😂)
These are just a few of the things that helped me make it through those first wild, beautiful, exhausting weeks.
If you’re in the thick of it right now, just know this:
You’re doing better than you think. ❤️
The newborn phase is fleeting. It’s overwhelming and magical all at once. And no, you won’t do it perfectly. No one does.
But every cuddle… every messy dinner… every moment you show up, even when you’re running on empty — it matters.
So take a deep breath. Be gentle with yourself. And remember:
You’re building something beautiful with your babies — even on the hard days.
You’ve got this, mama. 💪❤️
