My New York Baby

Posted Friday, December 19, 2008 2:39 PM

Mindy, a new mom on the Upper West Side, dishes on life with baby Emily.

Delivery room shocker
My epidural didn't completely work! Don't worry, though, it all ended up okay.

Her birth team
It was just my husband and me. I wanted it to be an experience for us to share privately as a couple and a new family.

Favorite baby body part
I love the part just below her ear on her neck. It's so kissable!

New mom moment
I knew it would be very emotional when we brought her home from the hospital and, sure enough, it was. But I was surprised at the intensity of my attachment and love for her. I was also shocked that I cried when she got her first shot!

Favorite stroll
If the weather is stormy, then we head to the indoor mall at the Time Warner Center. When it's nice out, we enjoy the outdoors with a walk in Central or Riverside Park.

Best baby gift
The Miracle Blanket. It's an absolute godsend! When she was six weeks old, she got fussy in the evenings and couldn't settle herself. We'd wrap her in the blanket, stick a pacifier in her mouth, and set her in the swing. She loved it.

Mommy classes
When she was first born, we went to a weekly moms drop-in class at the Jewish Community Center in Manhattan. I met some great women and the topics we discussed were really interesting. I never got involved in any other moms groups, but I did take classes to prepare for her arrival, including prenatal yoga, a breastfeeding class (a must!), infant CPR, newborn care, and a birthing class.

How she stays connected
It's important to get out with a baby. The more you get out, the more comfortable you'll be balancing your baby and all her gear on the go! Building your mommy confidence is key, and talking to other moms can really help.

For great nursing tanks and gear, Mindy loves The Upper Breast Side, (212) 873 - 2653.

                  -- Photography by Abby Cope Photography (www.abbycope.com)

> Want to share your New York birth story? Email it to kstanford@theknot.com.