It’s been about two weeks since the mighty 12th of April. The day we’ve all seemed to be waiting for after 6+ months of not being able to see other people, go out for a meal, and even introduce our little ones to the rest of the family.
I must say I was so excited for that Monday that I took a day off and decided to go and do a little bit of everything my now 7-month pregnant self could finally do. But having spent the last 7 months pretty much at home, I noticed I was a little bit on edge. The experience wasn’t as pleasant as I thought it would be and my social skills were on the rusty side, to say the least.
And this is how this blog came about. I LOVE being outside and I found these past few months (years?!) extremely challenging. Feeling so not like me when I was out and about, made me get into research mode to re-learn how to be social and mainly, how to do it with my baby girl arriving in just over a month.
So, here’s what I found.
First things first… Who doesn’t love a checklist?
WHAT TO TAKE FOR A DAY (I know, ambitious!) OUT WITH A NEWBORN
1. Car seat or pram - depending on how you’re travelling2. Changing bag with:
- Nappies
- Wipes
- Changing mat
- Rash cream
- Muslin
- Change of clothes (we’ve got some great ideas here)
- Baby bottle + formula or, if you’re breastfeeding, breast pads
- Water bottle
- Re-usable coffee cup
- Sunnies or brolly (it’s still Spring after all)
- Hand sanitiser + face mask
- Snacks
4. A book or a friend
That’s the kit sorted, but being already a fairly stressed out gal, I always like to look into tips from more experienced folk...
5 HANDY TIPS FOR A LESS STRESSFUL LUNCH OUT
1. Book things in advance. Before I moved to London, I had never booked a single table at a restaurant. Once I moved here, I realised that I wouldn’t dine anywhere on a Friday eve (oh, those pre-lockdown Friday eves!) unless I booked in advance. Good learning for the future, I must say.
2. Choose the place wisely. Babies are extremely portable in the beginning and you can take them pretty much wherever you want, however, maybe skip the fancy pants restaurant until you feel more confident. Go for a casual place instead.
3. If you’re walking or using public transport, check your route first and try to opt for step-free access.
4. Try babywearing. A baby sling can be a real lifesaver when you’re on the move and baby gets fussy in the buggy. They love snuggling up to you for comfort and you’ll love it too.
5. Don’t lose hope if it’s been two hours and you haven’t left the house yet.
If you, like me, are feeling a little anxious not only about going out for the first time after what’s been 7 months of social hibernation but also doing it with a new baby in tow, just take it slowly. A walk to the local patch of grass with a cup of homemade tea might be just what you need.
Taking it slowly and step by step will keep your nerves at bay and build confidence for the next adventure.
Long haul flight anyone?!
These are the tips of a research savvy mum to be. If any of you experienced mommas out there have any extra tips, just jot them down in the comments. It would be much appreciated.
Joana x