Our breastfeeding journey so far... six months in!

 Hello, welcome! 

Chances are that if you are here then you will be aware that this week is World Breastfeeding Week and it just so happens that it has fallen on the week when Freddie is turning six months old too (How has that happened?!) 

I thought I would write a whole post about our feeding journey so far... including the struggles, our favorite products (links below), and everything in between. 

Freddie is my second child however this has been my first breastfeeding/pumping journey because when I had Maci I chose to not breastfeed (and that's ok!) but this time round I knew from early on in my pregnancy that I wanted to attempt to feed Freddie. I did a lot of research of my own and spoke to whoever I could find in *real* life that had breastfed and bombarded them with questions. My pregnancy was very turbulent and I was considered high risk after my traumatic birth with Maci which I think was another factor in wanting to breastfeed. I had already felt like my body couldn't manage pregnancy very well so I wanted to try to breastfeed. 

I began pumping a few weeks before Freddie was actually born (he was born at 36+3 weeks) and this was for a few reasons - I was already producing milk so I chose to save my milk by just hand expressing into syringes which we actually ended up using once Freddie was born. There are many mixed opinions about inducing lactation before your baby is born however I was already 'leaking' milk so I collected that. 

When we had the shock that Freddie was coming premature it meant that my body wasn't ready... my milk did not 'come in' until about day two or three. This meant that for the first few days, Freddie had a combination of my previously expressed colostrum, formula, and donor milk from the hospital's milk bank. I had never even heard of a milk bank but I was so grateful for it in those first few days. Milk banks always prioritize the babies in the neonatal unit as they aren't given formula milk only donated breast milk. 

A few days after Freddie was born my milk finally came in and I was certain that I was going to pump every three hours and then feed him from a bottle. I managed this for a few weeks and let me tell you, pumping is intense. Whilst in the hospital we received some help from the lovely peer support breastfeeding volunteers in the hospital because Freddie's latch was slightly wrong and I had no idea how to position him whilst feeding but we soon got into the swing of things and now I can feed him whilst walking and doing multiple things! 

I soon realized that express feeding wasn't for me and I switched to 99% of the time nursing. It meant that I didn't have the hassle of cleaning pumps and bottles. 

Luckily our feeding journey has been fairly straightforward once we got into the rhythm of it (after those first few weeks where you have no clue what you're doing!) I have only had one stint of mastitis which luckily I caught it very early and was given antibiotics. 

We are now six months into our feeding journey and I definitely do not see it ending anytime soon. I really enjoy breastfeeding and Freddie finds great comfort in it. It really has been incredible to see what my body can do and how it can grow and nurture my little boy. Breastfeeding really has impacted my life in more ways than I can list, I have become so passionate about normalizing it and helping support others. I have recently enquired about doing a peer supporter course to help run breastfeeding groups in my local community and hopefully eventually volunteer in hospitals to help new mummies who are embarking on their very own feeding journeys. 

• Products that have really helped me throughout our feeding journey. 

Juno Jack's (Frankie dress - Gifted)

If you follow me on my socials you would have seen many Juno Jack's products photographed... I absolutely love them. They produce breastfeeding-friendly clothing and are a UK-based small business. They have recently added the beautiful Frankie smock nursing dress to their collection and I am obsessed. I have very kindly been sent a 'Frankie' dress and I'm so excited to share the images and reel with you all over on Instagram. 

Nursing in public wearing Florence breastfeeding dress

Momcozy S12 Pro Pumps

Having an older child and a slightly chaotic life meant that I knew I would not have loads of time to sit pumping. I came across the Momcozy pumps on Tiktok and instantly knew they would be super handy. I personally thought they were quite affordable considering many 'hands-free' pumps are hundreds of pounds. The S12 Pro pumps have a display screen that shows you how many minutes you have been pumping and automatically turns off after thirty minutes. 

Nanobebe milk storage bags

Before this journey, I presumed all milk storage bags were somewhat the same... oh how I was wrong! The Nanobebe milk storage bags come with a plastic 'holder' that keeps them nice and tidy in your freezer. The bags themselves are thick and really nice quality. 

Tommee Tippee nipple cream

This one is pretty straightforward... 

Hakka manual pump

I heard about the Hakka pumps at a local breastfeeding group and it has become an essential item. I use my Hakka almost daily to help catch any 'let down' or if Freddie goes slightly longer without a feed and I feel slightly full. The Hakka is easier to clean than the Momcozy pumps and is a lot smaller in size meaning you can keep it in your handbag or changing bag easily. 

Breast pads

I do not tend to wear breast pads often anymore as my supply has stabilized however in the early days they were a must-have! The ones linked above were what I used and I never had any leaks. 

I will be sharing more on our nursing journey so keep an eye out for those posts in the upcoming months. 

Thank you for reading!

Storm 

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Hello!

Hello! 

How are you? It's been a while but I have been itching to start blogging again. I get such enjoyment out of the escapism that writing gives me. It allows me to share my feelings, thoughts, and everything else in between without any judgment (well, the comment section is always open...)

I am now twenty-four years old, I have a little boy called Freddie who is five months old, a lovely fiancé and of course, Maci is doing really well and she started primary school last year. 

I have a few posts planned and I can't wait to get creating again for you all. As always if there is anything you would like to see from me then please let me know either below in the comments or on my socials. 

What to expect - 

• Quick and simple makeup routine
• Craft ideas to do at home
• Weaning essentials
• My breastfeeding experience so far
• Dealing with Hyperemesis again

Here's to the next chapter. 

Storm 

AD - Big Girl Room Transformation!

 Hello!

Long time no speak. Life has been kind of crazy over here with various different things. I hope you are all well and are enjoying the fact that the world is slowly opening back up.

Maci has just turned three and I decided that for her main birthday present I wanted to redecorate her bedroom so that it would be a 'big girl' room instead of a nursery/toddler room. I feel like if you're a parent you will fully understand what I mean by this. I knew that I wanted to keep roughly the same colour palette as before so it flowed throughout the house (pink, white and grey) however I wanted to add a dinosaur theme as Maci is currently obsessed. Another big change is that Maci has now gone from a toddler bed to a single bed which she has reacted very well too.

I was kindly gifted this beautiful canvas for the bedroom wall which fits the colour scheme perfectly (meaning that if Maci decides when she is older she no longer would like it in her room it could go in another room without an issue) I also fell in love with the design, its a mixture of being stunning artwork and educational due to the fact it is a map and included landmarks, animals etc. The canvas came 'flat packed' but was extremely easy to assemble following the instructions provided.

https://www.photowall.com/us/search?q=traveller

Photowall sweden have a large selection of wallpapers, prints and posters and the ability to use your own images to create something beautiful and unique for your home.

If you are wanting to purchase from Photowall Sweden they have also kindly given me a discount code for you to use to receive 25% off of your order - stormsblog25

https://www.photowall.com/us/search?q=world%20maps

Until next time,

Storm

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Three Years Later - What I would tell my eighteen year old self.

 Throwback to the 10th October 2017, the day I took a pregnancy stick unaware that two lines would appear. The day that would change my life forever and the day I realised I was going to be someone's mummy at only eighteen/nineteen years old. 

Three years later a lot has changed, I have learnt a lot about people, parenting and life in general so I thought why not compile it into a post that may help someone who may find themselves in the position I was in three years prior.

 

When you become a parent, not only do you meet a brand new person in the child you have birthed but you will also meet a whole new version of yourself - This for me took a long time to adjust too. Before having children you are rightfully selfish and once you have a child that soon changes. Simple things like just popping for a shower to wash your hair can feel like a mammoth task whereas before it was a simple task. It took me ages to find the 'new/old me' after having Maci and truthfully I don't think I have fully found her yet and I am writing this three years after finding out I was pregnant. It takes time, don't be so hard on yourself.

 You will realise who your true friends are - When you are pregnant and have a baby it will become apparent who your 'true friends' are. This was another one that I found hard to adjust too. Friends who you think will always be there for you and who say that they can't wait to be an 'auntie'/'uncle' will soon vanish. Now this can't be said for all of them, a select few will stay around and support you throughout this tough time and will love your child like their own and of course you will meet other parents along the way which you will call your friends so don't be too disheartened. People change and that's ok. 

 

Your idea of the 'perfect family' may change - Now for me when I found out I was pregnant I was so excited to raise Maci with someone and to share the experience becoming parents, but sometimes things don't always go to plan and individuals don't turn out to be who you once thought they were and that's okay. This for me is one of the biggest lessons I have had to learn. Sometimes people's intentions are completely wrong and they simply don't want the same thing as you. This does not degrade you as a person or as a mother as long as you do all you can every day for your daughter. Although if you do find yourself in a dramatically different situation than what you once thought, don't forget that it is perfectly normal to 'grieve' what you thought you initially wanted. There is absolutely no shame in being a single parent. Now if someone asks me what my idea of the 'perfect family' is I simply say, 'whatever you are content with'. For me, three years later, that is myself, Maci and Peggy and I wouldn't have it any other way.

 Things that seem like a big issue right now, won't be in years time - Now I think this stands for most things throughout life but I think we sometimes forget it. It is so easy to get consumed by things that seem like a massive issue in the now but you have to ask yourself, will it matter it in a year or two? You don't want to spend your time being consumed by worries, especially when you're a new parent who is trying to find their feet in your new role. Take each day as it comes... 

 Finally, I would like to say to my 2017 self that things will be tough over the next few years. You will have days where it will seem impossible but trust me, things will fall into place. You will survive the Hyperemesis Gravidarum, you will give birth to a beautiful girl who will become your best friend, you will get help to cope with the traumatic birth, relationships will break down but you will flourish from the crappy situation, you will move into a beautiful home and you will continue to raise Maci by yourself and you should be so incredibly proud of yourself and the little girl that you helping to grow every day. 

Until next time,  

Storm

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Having some 'self care' time! - AD Trenza Braidbar Southampton

 Hello,

For those of you who are parents you will know how tough it is to get some very important 'self care' time. Recently I was invited along to Trenza Braidbar in West Quay, Southampton and safe to say I jumped at the chance to actually be able to sit down for a while, child free and have my hair transformed into an amazing creation. I certainly was not disappointed. 

It is important to note that Trenza Braidbar do not just do 'crazy and colourful' creations but they do also do natural braids but for me, I wanted to try something a bit out of my comfort zone hence the vibrant masterpiece that Nicole created for me. Trenza also have a mother and daughter package for those of you who have older little ones who would enjoy having their hair braided.

You can find Trenza Braidbar near the Apple Store in West Quay, Southampton.

So next time you have some spare time, why not book in with Trenza Braidbar. It is truly incredibly how confident I felt whilst having my hair in this bubble braid, I instantly wanted to have a photoshoot!

Massive thank you to the lovely ladies at Trenza for making me feel so comfortable and allowing me some much needed 'me time'.

Until next time,

Storm

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My Story - Birth Trauma

 What is Birth Trauma?

'Birth trauma is a shorthand phrase for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after childbirth. We also use it for women who have some symptoms of PTSD, but not enough for a full diagnosis. In most cases, what makes birth traumatic is the fear that you or your baby are going to die. We very often see birth trauma in women who have lost a lot of blood, for example, or who had to have an emergency caesarean because their baby’s heart rate suddenly dipped' - Birth Trauma Association

Now this is a topic that I have touched on many times on my Instagram but a topic I have not talked through in depth as such, simply because I could not find the words and I could not figure out how to write it down with any sort of structure, so I do apologise in advance if this post some what jumps from point to point.

If you're new here you will not be aware that on the 13th june 2018 I gave birth to my daughter, Maci. Who weighed 8lbs 11oz a week before her due date. I struggled with Hyperemesis Gravidarum throughout my pregnancy which resulted in me not being able to work and most days barely leave my flat at the time, it was extremely isolating and a terrible time.The condition itself definitely left a permanent fear of being sick and feeling nauseous. I was so excited to give birth, as any expectant mother I had dreamt about what would happen and that amazing moment I would be able to hold my beautiful baby for the first time. Never did it cross my mind that I would have a very long labour, resulting in 1500+ ml blood loss, episiotomy and a forceps delivery. I have a whole post about my birth story so please take a look if you would like to know about it in more in depth. 

You're probably wondering why I have only chosen to speak about my ordeal now, well the lovely Jodetopia contacted me and asked if I would like to take part in a collaborative post all about Birth trauma and forwarded me some questions (below) which of course I willingly answered because it is so important that this topic is spoken about more widely. 

How long ago was the birth in which resulted your birth trauma?

26 months ago, 13^th June 2018.

Did you seek, or were you offered, help for your birth trauma? If so, would you be willing to explain a little bit about the help that you have received?

I was not offered any help initially despite the traumatic birth that I had and only being a teen mum. I can’t remember who mentioned it to me (possibly saw it on social media) that my local hospital offered a service called ‘birth afterthoughts’ which was a service in which you could ask for a nurse/doctor to sit down with you and go through your labour and delivery notes with you. Now this is definitely an appointment that took a lot of thought about attending, it was very triggering and emotional although I came out of the appointment understanding why things happened a little bit more and feeling a bit less ‘robbed’ of the experience of giving birth.

Would you consider yourself ‘recovered’ from your birth trauma?

No, I don’t think I will ever ‘recover’ from the ordeal. I find myself talking about it less nowadays just because I don’t think it is healthy to keep reminding myself of the events but this does not mean I block it out completely because I feel like that is even more damaging. It has definitely impacted by decision about having more children though If I was to ever meet someone again.

If you answered no, do you think it will ever be possible for you to be ‘recovered’ from your birth trauma? What would ‘recovery’ look like for you? (see above)

Do you think that your birth trauma has affected your relationship with your child?

It definitely did in the new-born days, I was not able to be the first person to dress her, feed her or even hold her. Even to this day I do not know what her first ever outfit was and that does upset me. I had to have blood transfusions meaning I felt ‘drunk’ as such for the first couple of months of my daughter’s life, it was a very strange time and I would not wish it upon anyone. I remember every time I spoke about the birth I would always get the reply 'Oh well atleast Maci is ok' which of course was true but I couldn't help but feel ignored despite what I had experienced a short time before. Regardless of the traumatic birth Maci is now two years old and we could not be closer, so if you are reading this and you’ve got a new-born, please do not be worried about the amazing bond you will have with them in the future.

Any advice for other mums out there still struggling with their birth trauma?

The first time I realised something was truly ‘wrong’ was when I watched a video by Louise Pentland on YouTube where in which she spoke about birth trauma and every single point she mentioned brought me to tears. It was a relief that I wasn’t alone and that there was not something wrong with me that I felt this way. I personally struggled finding much online content about the subject which is why I am taking part in this project to help raise awareness and hopefully start a conversation. And finally do not feel guilty, it is nothing you did that resulted in a traumatic birth. I remember thinking that maybe if i did 'x y and z' that it may of of resulted in the induction which then caused everything to happen so quick.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I would like to add that you are not alone, birth trauma is more common than we think but for some reason it isn’t spoken about. It is not something to feel guilty about or ashamed of. We all go into pregnancy and birth with this ‘perfect’ idea of what it is, although very rarely this happens. I think it is very wrong that midwives and other maternity staff do not prepare women for what may happen, despite how scary it may be, it is the reality of childbirth and I believe that it would have been a lot more beneficial to me (being only 19 at the time) to of had the various outcomes explained to me before I was signing a consent form about to be operated on.

This truly is a subject that I could speak about for a long time but I would like to say that my direct messages/emails are always open for anyone who thinks that birth trauma may be affecting them.

Helpful links -

 Birth Trauma Association

Birth Trauma and Post Natal PTSD

Louise' Video

Until next time,

Storm

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Two Whole Years Of Maci

Hello,

It seems like only yesterday I was sat writing my pregnancy announcement and now I am creating this post to celebrate the fact that Maci turned two last week and I'm not quite sure how that has happened. I now have a two year old, Maci is no longer classed as a 'baby' but she will always be my little 8lbs 11oz baby Maci. 

I could never of imagined what would of happened in two years since Maci was born, we have moved house twice and we are now hopefully in our 'forever home', relationships broke down and life got somewhat complicated but despite all of this Maci has thrived as a little girl and is the most caring and entertaining soul. I certainly did not bring Maci into this world planning to be a single mum for her first and second birthdays but life always finds a way to throw a curveball at you and this was ours, I am lucky enough that Maci is not aware of the situation but I certainly am and it has helped me become a stronger and more independent person and for that I am thankful. 

Maci's birthday's are always an emotional day as is any child's birthday but Maci's especially because I always remember the absolute hell I went through to bring her into this world and quite honestly how lucky I am to be able to celebrate her birthdays with her. I won't go into depth about my whole birth 

story but you can read the post here - My Labor and Delivery Story

Maci had a lovely birthday despite having to maintain Lockdown conditions due to Coronavirus, we spent the day in the garden with our dearest family and friends, opening presents and enjoying eachothers company from a distance. Maci's birthday cake was from Patty Cakes UK, the cake topper and unicorn confetti was from Wildoneandi (AD) and last but no means least the incredible balloon garland and '2' was from Luxe List

Here's to another year of adventures from Maci and I.

Until next time,

Storm

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AD - Fathers Day with Funky Pigeon

Hello,

With Fathers day fastly approaching it can be a tough and emotional day for some families although Funky Pigeon cater for every type of family type which I really like and appreciate. I have kindly been gifted a couple of lovely gifts from their Fathers Day range. These gifts are from Maci to my dad, her grandad. 

This key ring is a super affordable gift, the quality is excellent. You can easily upload an image from your device and edit the placement until you're happy! 

The second item  I chose was this customised cushion, im one of those people who always think you can't have enough cushions. The cushion once again feels of very good quality material and the image isn't pixalated at all. Overall, I am very happy with these two items and I am excited to see my dads face when we give them to him on Fathers Day.

Funky Pigeon also have a wide range of other gifts available for Fathers Day such as; 

Customisable Balloons and much more! There really is a gift for everyone.

You can shop the whole Fathers Day range from Funky Pigeon here 

This post contains gifted items with obligation to post. All opinions are those of Storms Blog.

Until next time,

Storm

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Two Year Old Gift Ideas

Hello,

 

Maci turns two next month and I have found that it is a fairly hard age to shop for. I have decided to compile a list of a few online that I have found that I feel would be perfect for a two year old. All children are different so this list may not be perfect for all but here are a few ideas. 

Pat-a-cake Play Kitchen 

My First Playhouse

'My First Playhouse is perfect for imaginative play. Kids will love having a place to call their own, whether in the garden or in the playroom.'

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Car

'The Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Car is an instantly recognisable classic. For 30 years, this child-powered ride on has been loved by kids and parents alike.'

Aquadoodle Super Rainbow Deluxe

'Let your creative imagination go wild with the new Super Rainbow Deluxe. Simply fill the Aquadoodle pen with ordinary tap water, run the nib over the magic mat and see the colours appear!'

Little Tikes Cape Cottage - Pink

'Let your little one live in effortless style! With modern windows, arched doors and brick details, this is one of our more contemporary playhouses for kids. With two working doors and windows with shutters, as well as details including a letter box and flag holder, little ones will have a whale of a time playing ‘house’. It might only be small in design, but this characterful cottage packs in a lot of fun!'

My Little World 2pc Bedding Set 

'The My Little World 2pc bedding set in Llama Pink will make an elegant addition to your precious little ones nursery.'

Girls Pink Igor Star Sandals

 

'Offering a sweet choice for their summer sandal collection, Igor deliver this adventure-ready jelly shoe. The kids' Star sandal is crafted with a pink man-made upper in a strappy basket design while an easy fasten ankle strap allows independent wear.'

My Mud Kitchen

'My Mud Kitchen promoted creativity, role-play and imagination - where play is limitless. Outdoor learning through play is strongly encouraged to help with children's growth, confidence and development.

Personalised 'My Name Is' Spelling Mat

Help your child learn to spell their name with our Personalised ‘My name is...’ Spelling Mat.

Letters attach to the mat with Velcro which means no loose or missing parts and your child can practise over and over again until they learn to spell their name.'

I hope this post may of given you some ideas on what to buy a two-year-old. 

Until next time,

Storm

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A Whole Year Of Single Parenting

Hello,

I can't decide If this year has gone quickly or slowly but either way, here I am to share with you the realities of the last 365 days (give or take a few) of single parenting. 

A majority of single parents never think that they will end up in this situation and I certainly didn't. I definitely did not have a baby with the intention to become a single parent at the age of twenty. Overnight my seemingly 'perfect' family had vanished and my life was quite honestly a mess and I had to work out how to salvage it. The whole thought of being a single mum at such a young age was quite honestly terrifying, I didn't know much about 'adult' life and I had to work it all out as we went along and it has definitely had it's moments but a year later I think i've got it almost all worked out.

I have learnt a lot the past year, I've learnt that I am a lot stronger mentally than I would've ever thought. I've managed to build Maci and I a new life together and I now realise that this is where we were suppose to be, as crazy as that may sound. We are in a brand new house that we moved into last August and we both absolutely love it. Obviously moving into a house at only twenty years old with a toddler in tow was not easy and working out all the bills and other aspects that come along with having a house was a learning curve but it was worth all the stress.

The last year has had its tough moments, ones where i've doubted myself as a parent and myself as a person but it is normal to grieve 'the family unit' that I thought I had and once I accepted that, it has been much easier to move on and continue with mine and Maci's lives. I wouldn't of been able to get through this past year if it wasn't for my wonderful friends, family and my incredible boyfriend who's been my absolute rock the last few months. 

Everyone's single parenting journey is different whether that be because it was a mutual separation, multiple children, ages of children etc there are so any other reasons but all you have to remember is that as a parent you have to do what's right for your child/ren. Sometimes that can be a lot harder than said but there's always a way. 

So, what's my advice for a newly single parent? 

Take each day as it comes - Some days you will feel on top of the world and some days you may struggle to get out of bed. It is likely that this isn't your fault and you should not feel guilty for no longer being in that relationship, as long as you've done what's best for you and your child/ren then you should be so incredibly proud of yourself and hold your head high.

It is okay to NOT tell your side of the story - This for me has been one of the hardest parts of the whole situation but I have learnt that eventually the truth will always come out and even if it doesn't I can go to sleep at night knowing that I am a good person and that is all I have to be concerned about. I can only control my own actions, I can't change anyone else's actions or morals. This advice has certainly been one of the biggest points that has helped me move on with my life.

Do not be too proud to accept help -  It is okay to take help from friends, family and even strangers. There are plenty of support groups online for single parents and they have helped me an immense amount. It is so reassuring to know that you are not alone in the situation that you have found yourself in. 

Take some time for you - It is so easy to get wrapped up in being a parent and a homeowner that you don't take any time out of your day/week to simply look after yourself. 'Looking after yourself' can be anything from having a relaxing bath to watching your favourite show on telly. A few months ago I really struggled with this point but now I make sure that I do this atleast a few times a week and it has certainly improved my patience and all around mental health. 

And finally, I am proud of you - This is a path nobody ever wants to go down but as someone who has done it for a year let me reassure you that it does get easier. It may not seem it right now as you're reading this but it truly does and it will be worth it.

My inbox is always open, don't be shy.

Until next time,

Storm 

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