Mallory is 32 and she lives in the Kansas City area with her husband and new baby. She teaches Family and Consumer Science and coaches high school dance. Her daughter, Hallie, was born in November. Mallory is a first time mom.
During your first week with your newborn, what was:
Your biggest challenge?
“Aside from being sleep deprived from being in the hospital and just having a newborn in general, I found it very challenging to navigate visitors during the first week at home. Covid aside, I was very concerned about germs during the winter months and I wanted to make sure everyone who stepped foot into our home was healthy. At the same time, I didn't want to offend anyone with my requests. But I knew I had to do what I thought best for our family. With the help of our pediatrician we were able to navigate this a little better.”
The biggest surprise?
“During our first week at home I struggled with 'baby blues.' I found myself very nervous all the time. I wanted to constantly hold my baby and have eyes on her at all times, which in turn led to being even more sleep deprived and more nervous. I grew up around babies; I worked in a daycare and was around babies often. I was even coined 'the baby hog' at family gatherings. There was no way I could be struggling with this. But it was real and it became very difficult to function this way. Again, with the help of others and learning to loosen my grip and control, things have gotten much better.”
Your favorite part?
“I would say my favorite part of the first week were those evening/night time feedings when it was just the three of us hanging out in bed as a family. Sounds strange, but I found it oddly calming and enjoyable sitting in a dimly lit room feeding her with no interruptions and not having to share her or my husband with anyone.”