7 “To-Do’s” for the Brand New Mom

My son was born in early June. Perfect timing, truly. I didn’t have to endure too many days feeling like a cooked whale, and school had just let out, so it seemed like an intelligent time to duck out on leave since I work with kids.

After he was born, we came home and spent a week in new family bliss. Then, being two business owners, my husband had to go back to work because the bacon doesn’t cook itself.

And I got bored.

Newborns sleep a lot. And while I did my best to sleep with him, it didn’t happen all of the time.

So what do you do when you are done being cooped up in the house with your new bundle of joy? Here are 7 “to-do’s” I discovered during my time as a brand new mom.

1. Buy Bras at Target

Okay, this one isn’t Columbia-centric, nor even Target-centric, but really … go buy bras. Your boobs are different, you are different, and nothing makes you feel quite as good as a new bra while you are adjusting to your post-baby body.

If you are germaphobe, it’s a great time to discover babywearing. I loaded up my little man in my ergo with infant insert and went to Target the first day that my husband went back to work. Had to support my bust!

2. Check Out the Columbia Museum of Art

Stimulating for mom and interesting for baby — if he or she deems it appropriate to be awake. If baby is wide-eyed, get as close as you can to pieces to ensure that they can see some of it. Look for high contrast! The Museum of Art gets extra Columbia points for being air conditioned in the summer. Plus they have the new Stroller Tour events once a month. Bring your little ones along for the ride on a stroller-friendly tour for caregivers with babies up to age two. Fussy, crying, or wiggly babies welcome! Babywearing is encouraged. Free with membership or admission.

3. Go on a Playdate

This one feels awkward at first. My child is nothing more than an eat poop cry machine that is not capable of smiling yet. How on earth are we going on a playdate? Well mom … playdates are for YOU. Make plans with your neighbors kids or find friends at a local La Leche League meeting. Join a local playgroup like Busy Bees ]and venture out on playdates. If you are a new mom, now is the time to find your tribe.

4. Venture to Library Story Times

Richland County Public Library has story time for babies. So awesome! Go check out these events that focus on increasing vocabulary, listening and motor skills with stories and songs. Pediatricians recommend reading to your baby daily from the day that they are born and this is the perfect venue. Plus you can check out up to 60 books at at time to share for with your baby at home. Who doesn’t like free stuff? Bonus: you will meet other moms with kids around the same age.

If you don’t live closer to Lexington County, the public libraries there also offer story time for babes. So no matter where you live in Columbia or the surrounding areas, there is something for you!

5. Stroll the Riverwalks

Sometimes you need to move. Hit up the Riverwalk along the canal or the Cayce Riverwalk. If your babe is anything like mine, they’ll love the trees and the breeze! Or just wander through your neighborhood like I sometimes did.

6. Go Have Lunch (They Won’t Sleep so Soundly for Long)

I ate well in the first month of mommyhood. Everyone wanted to meet my baby, and guess what? He was always napping at lunch time. We hit up California Dreaming, No Name Deli, Motor Supply Bistro and more. Yum.

7. Explore Columbia

Strap that baby on your chest and go tour the Governor’s Mansion, the State House, or the historic Columbia houses. If you are on maternity leave, this might be a chance to check these things out before you go back to work!

Final Tips

As stressful as cabin fever can be, be sure to schedule yourself in short blocks of time. I found that I could do two hours out of the house before I felt the need to retreat. Be prepared to feed your baby, change your baby, and potentially change yourself. Most of all, enjoy this time!

What tips would you add to the list?