Naturopath, author and co-owner of blog Julia and Libby is a first time mum to daughter Maxwell. Over the coming weeks, she’ll be sharing her progress as she gets to grips with motherhood, and all the changes it involves.
“Last weekend I landed back in New Zealand for the first time since we welcomed Maxwell at the start of the year.
It’s been so amazing to be home, around all the comforts of New Zealand and the friends and family that make life that bit better.
Introducing Max to my sister Julia has been one of the highlights, and we all took some time to head down to Wellington for our very first girls trip!
Although I’ll admit I’ve been struggling to get over my jet lag from South Africa, I’ve been pretty busy showing off my new arrival, catching up with everyone and enjoying some delicious Kiwi cuisine.
I was seriously worried about our 24 hour flight with a three month old baby, but I needn’t have. I hate to jinx it, but Maxwell was a dream on both flights and barely grumbled.
I made sure I ate three huge meals before I flew and drank litres of water, so I had good quality milk to feed her throughout the journey. I’ve found, as I’m sure many mums have, that if I don’t eat well my milk is less satisfying for Max and she has to feed more often.
To make things easier, I took Max in a front pack so I could have my hands free, and packed lots of snacks so I could keep my energy levels up.
And it’s not all holidaying for me either, as much as I wish it was. I’ve been working on some new projects with Julia which I’m really excited about, and just getting to hang out and work with her again has been so wonderful.
It’s funny that you don’t even really understand what you miss most about home until you come back. I’ve so missed being able to jump in the car and drive to my friends’ houses. I miss good coffee, and the quietness of New Zealand. The cafes are still second to none, and being able to get on a plane and be in another amazing city like Wellington within minutes is pretty incredible (though we did get stranded there this week and that was a bit of a nightmare).
Fitness wise, I’ve been putting things on the back burner a little as I’m so tired from my travels. I’m going to do some Pilates and I’m still walking lots, but I can’t do anything high intensity while I’m feeling this washed out. At least my arms are getting a workout from carrying Max!
Till next time,
L x
