There are just two weeks to go until I’ll officially become a mum of two little boys! Time feels as though it’s racing when I compare this stage of my pregnancy with when I had Aston. Despite the fact I’m currently a lot less organised, I feel so much calmer. I think it’s because I know what’s coming this time round.

Prior to welcoming Aston into the world, I’d invested a lot of time into researching. From baby washes and detergents ( I bought four different baby detergents tossing up which was better as I didn’t want nasty chemicals and fragrances and it sent me mad) to clothing fabrics, nappies and creams –everything was a big deal! I was getting myself well and truly in the know.  This time around I just don’t have that kind of time.

Having all of that knowledge stored away is certainly powering me through as this second baby grows. I wanted to write this post for new mums to share a few of my personal learnings since having Aston. Hopefully, they’ll help to put your mind at ease.

1. You don’t have to listen to everyone 

It’s fine to ignore advice and trust your gut instincts when it comes to your baby. I really believe that you know your baby best. Don’t feel the pressure to conform to other people’s expectations of what a ‘good mum’ is or looks like. And if you need help, find a tribe of mums that you love and trust.

2. You will still look and feel pregnant for a while

There have been some amazing ladies that have recently shown their real bodies after giving birth.  When I had Aston, I did not have this kind of confidence. I remember feeling shocked at how my body looked after he was born.

Due to social media, I thought I would instantly have my flat stomach but that was not the case. It takes time for everything to move back into place, especially if you have bad abdominal separation like I do. Give your body time to heal and don’t push yourself. I know it sounds cliché but it takes 10 months to grow a baby, so it’ll take at least that long for your body to go back to normal. Don’t forget you’re not alone. All women are in the same boat.

3. Sleep when the baby sleeps

This can be hard to do when you have so much on, especially if you continue to work from home as I was doing with Aston. It is so important in for the first 3months however, to make sure you take every opportunity to sleep as you probably wont be getting much during the night. So even if it’s 11.00am on a Tuesday, sleep!!

4. Online shopping, is a lifesaver (thank you Country Road!)

Following on from the point above, when there is a newborn in the house, getting out is next to impossible. Even if you have an hour or so, your energy levels are not going to be high enough to brave the stores. Jump online and visit the brands you love & trust, like I do with Country Road.

I’ve teamed up with Country Road for this post as their newborn range is incredible. Made with beautifully soft organic cotton, their range is perfect for delicate newborns right up until 12 years. Clothes, blankets, beanies, bibs, bags & even gorgeous soft little animal teddies (also made with organic cotton) –check it out here. It’s a one stop-shop for everything you’ll need to feel relaxed & organised.

Shopping with Country Road means I don’t have to think. Simply selecting an adorable pattern & style is all that’s required to know my little ones will be sleeping or playing in fabrics that breathe. Washing is as simple as it gets and comfort & functionality is on point.  Have a little look below. Writing this piece created the perfect opportunity to take some photos with Aston wearing his sweet little Country Road pieces.

5. Hang in there! Everything is a phase and doesn’t last forever

I remember my mum telling me to just hang in there and get to the 3 month phase and then it will all get better. It is true. You’ll look back to those really hard days and wish you hadn’t wished them away. The initial tough period won’t last forever.

6. Breastfeeding is not for everyone and that’s okay

I found breastfeeding hard with Aston. I had issues with him latching on and then a few bouts of mastitis but I thought I had to keep trying to push through (because that’s what ‘good mums’ do right?!) No that isn’t right, because a baby fed is best, it doesn’t matter if it comes from you or a bottle. I breastfed Aston to six months old but I now know that if I find it as difficult as last time, I don’t need to continue to push through.

I am wearing: Jane Woven Mule, Flutter Sleeve Dress  and Aston is wearing Grey Polo Shirt, Chino and Mesh Boat Shoe 

SHOP these newborn goodies. So many cute pieces for newborns

Neoprene Baby Bag, Cactus Change Mat, Unisex Cloud Change Mat , Cloud Bunny

Cloud Beanie, Anchor Sweat Top and Pants 

I am wearing Linen Spot Top, Linen Spot Short. Aston is wearing Denim Jacket, Large Check Shirt, Chino Short 

In summary, take it all day-by-day. There is no “right way” to become a mum. Just go at your own pace & follow your natural instincts. If you do that, I can assure you, you’ll being doing an incredible job.

So with just over two weeks to go at my end, even though I know our nursery won’t be completed until the end of November, I’m not letting it worry me. Babies naturally invite an element of chaos into the home, so let the good times role!

Shot in collaboration with Country Road