Hey mama,
I wish someone had told me just how taxing the postpartum period would be. I knew I’d be tired, sure — but nothing prepares you for running on fumes, questioning everything, and still being expected to "keep it together."
Those first few weeks with Ollie were filled with love, yes — but also with uncertainty.
I’d often wonder:
“Am I doing this right?”
“Is he eating enough?”
“Why can’t I stop crying today?”
There were sleepless nights, days where I didn’t know what time it was, and moments I felt guilty for not being more “productive.”
As if I wasn’t already doing everything I possibly could.
Some people treated me like I was on some kind of break — “on leave,” as if that meant I had all the time in the world.
But maternity leave is not a holiday. It’s healing. It’s adjustment. It’s survival.
With my entire family in Brazil, I leaned heavily on my husband’s support. He was present, patient, and always reminded me that what I was doing mattered.
That I mattered.
Something else that helped me stay grounded? Getting outside — just a little.
When I felt ready, I started taking short strolls with Ollie. Nothing fancy, just a lap around the park, fresh air on our faces. It gave me a reason to put on clean clothes, breathe deeply, and reset.
The Baby Ollie “StrollEase” Organizer made those little outings easier. I could quickly pack nappies, wipes, a dummy, a change of clothes — and go. No fuss. It saved my brain space and helped me feel a bit more put together, even if everything else felt messy.
If you’re in the thick of it right now, I want you to know: you’re doing more than enough.
The house can wait. The dishes can wait.
Your healing, your bond, your rest — that’s the real work.
You’re not on break.
You’re becoming someone new — and that takes everything.
And still, you’re doing it.
With love and total respect,
Renata (Ollie’s mum) 💛