Super Mammy Diaries

Before there was an us, or a we, there was just Coco and me. I fell in love with my puppy before I knew my husband existed, or that I would have a beautiful baby boy just after Coco turns 5 years old. He has been the center of half a decade and has brought immeasurable amounts of unconditional love into my life. I am a better person for it and he will always be my first child. Coco, me and NYC. Summer 2009. I know I am not the only one has loved and raised a pet with as much love as their own child. I definitely met people who told me that I wouldn't love my "dog" as much when I had a baby (or who almost got slapped by me for telling me I should give him away before the baby comes), but I knew that would never be the case and it isn't. I am even more protective of him now to make sure that he's well integrated and does not feel left out. Below are the steps I took to make sure that Coco remained comfortable, did not feel any sibling rivalry and did not feel left o...

There are an endless number of things I wish I knew before becoming a mother to my son, Riaan. Things your own parents may have forgotten and that the classes won’t tell you. Here are some  pointers that every parent should know about your newborn: Labor: 1.    It’s called “Labor” for a reason! 2.     Take it one contraction at a time, and seriously, take the drugs. You have grown a little human being inside of you; you are already a hero! 3.  If you are being induced, there is a higher chance of a cesarean section, but stay calm and try and rest when you can, as your stress hormones will inhibit the labor process. 4.  Your baby is adorable (at least to you) no matter what it is covered in. 5. Trust the nurses, they are your greatest resource. 6.  Place your husband next to a couch, just incase he wants to collapse (or, in my case, lie down to catch his own breath in between your pushes). Nursing: 7.    The first few days are the ...