You hear so much negativity around becoming a mother I feel like strictly about how hard it is and what a change it is etc, but I absolutely loved and appreciated hearing you express the immense joy and love it’s given you, while still acknowledging the hard parts. What a beautiful story, baby, and mama ♥️
Sweetheart, I am 76 years old and I love you and Hunter and Smoke so much. You are such a precious Mother and are just glowing. It makes my heart smile a lot. It’s awesome how much you have enjoyed this journey into motherhood. I envy your mother and mother-in-law having a daughter like you. May God bless your sweet family. I can’t wait to hear about Smoke’s little life and all the joy he will bring to your life and Hunter’s life. Smoke is one lucky little boy. 🌷🌺🌸🌼🌹🌻
I am 26 weeks pregnant and I so appreciate your positive attitude and outlook on all things pregnancy, birth, postpartum and baby. The world needs more of this.
I’m always so inspired by y’all when you talk about how you waited till you felt ready and had the desire to have a baby. I have always felt the same way but have never gotten support on that stance. People would always respond with “you’ll never be prepared or ready”. It’s so refreshing to hear your story and it motivates me to do what I truly want🤍
this video and your entire pregnancy journey has been such a breath of fresh air filled with so much positivity but also the most realistic advice. I’m due next month and you have only made me even more excited for this major life transition. You are GLOWING and your advice is so so appreciated 🤍
You’re more than just a mom and you’re meant for many things but oh my gosh watching you with him and the way you talk about this whole experience. You were meant to be a mom, your glow is crazy and it almost makes me cry because I can actually see your love for him and this whole experience through a screen
Just want to say you’ve never looked more beautiful I really think it’s the happiness. I’m 8 weeks pregnant and this video made me feel so much better with my nerves! Thanks for sharing Julia❤
The way you describe motherhood and how it has softened you is EXACTLY how I feel. I have an 18m old and she has made me a kinder, more patient and gentle person. I’m also an elementary school teacher and it has made me look at kids with such a different, softer lens. Congratulations to you two! And go Frogs! 😉💜
You are such a ray of positivity and I love your viewpoint on life and motherhood. Not a mom yet but the way you describe it makes me excited for the future!
I disagree on the OB and Nurse experience. I had an outstanding OB provider and I know several mamas who experience the same with theirs. My OB was definitely an advocate for me and my baby and the nurses in the delivery room made me feel so well taken care of. Even the postpartum staff was amazing after giving birth. And this was for BOTH my pregnancies. I hope your next birthing experience is more positive from this particular perspective.
LOVED this video. So positive but realistic at the same time. You & Hunter were made to be parents. You're both smashing it. Sending so much love to you 4 xo
Julia, I am having my first baby and I am due February 2024. Watching this video has helped me so much and gave me such a great perspective on everything. You are such a positive light ❤❤❤
Omg!!! Your labor was so different than mine. I can't even imagine pushing for that long but YOU DID IT!!! 🎉 I had my first Jan 2021, once I was in my room I got my epidural and slept most of the time until they woke me to break my water & then woke me again to tell me I was at 10cm. I pushed for about 30 minutes, but I agree with you, pushing was the funnest part... especially since I felt so in tune with my body and finally like I could do it. Congrats!!!
I don’t know if this is any consolation, but I am a small business owner and a mom of two under 5. So I am writing from that perspective. Yes there are definitely crazy times and there are times you need away time from the kids, but that desire to always have your kids near you doesn’t really go away. It is a SUPER strong connection, and also a tool that drives you. Those desires for business and for your kids will feed off each other. Wanting to be with your kids forces you to be more regimented with your schedule and more organized, and reworking your schedule to fit each developmental stage in your child’s life. You will live off a calendar and a schedule, but the benefit and return on that is your business becomes even more successful and you are able to make that time for your kids. You’re right the first two months are crazy, but rest assured that passion for your child will drive your business
I have been watching every single vlog for the past i don’t even know how many years, and now that you guys have entered this phase, i just love you guys even more. I have no kids of my own but tons of nieces and nephews. Seeing your journey and others honestly helps me appreciate my own family and their journeys even more. I love hearing the ups and downs of it all, and i will definitely refer back to these vids when i choose to have kiddos❤️❤️
I’m literally 23 and single but watched the whole thing literally bc you answer every question so gracefully that it’s like bff is talking to me and I love it 🥹💗
Julia. This video was great for first time moms. I wish I was told all this when I was having my first child so many years ago. At first, I was thinking, it was not going to be relatable for me, because I already have all my children. I decided to watch anyway. You are one of the best at storytelling, and I also enjoy all of your videos. Telling your story was so on point, and I feel this will give all the pregnant women and new mom's a fresh perspective of the experience. I love that. 🥰
Great video Julia! I had two natural/unmedicated births… and my last birth at the age of 40 I got an epidural! My birth plan was to go all natural…but let me tell you! I thought I would be so disappointed with myself for getting the epidural-but it WAS amazing! Don’t be hard on yourself if u get that help it made the birth so much more enjoyable and I was able to be more present!! ❤❤❤
Girl I’m so glad you didn’t tear and your recovery has been so smooth! My first baby was 10lb 4oz and I tore soo bad so that recovery was LONG! My second was 7lb 7oz and she slid right out so I didn’t tear and omg recovery was QUICK!
I’m recently married and we just started talking about kids (probably another year or 2) but thought I’d watch your labor video to see what it was like for you bc I know y’all keep it real! And honestly I was terrified. Girl you are a TROOPER! I won’t be so brave😅 but after watching this I totally understand where you’re coming from and I’m not as scared. So thank you❤
I just want to say that I was diagnosed with a tongue tie at 28 years old. It's not bad but it definitely impacted my health throughout my life. My myofunctional therapist said it was why I was sick often as a kid, breathing issues, posture issues (because I wasn't breathing properly) like I never knew how important proper tongue placement and getting a tongue tie addressed is so important. My mom didn't realize I had a tongue tie either bc I was not breast fed so I am so so happy you're addressing it early!
Julia I’ve commented this on a previous pregnant video of yours but I’ve been SO nervous to get pregnant because I’m worried my mental/physical health will suffer. Like I want to be a mom, but I don’t want to be pregnant lol. You give me a lot of relief and I will probably watch this video on repeat when I am pregnant one day 😂 love you guys and baby Smoke 💙
Ladies If your water breaks please go straight to the hospital. Yes it may take awhile for labor to progress & everyones "experience" is different however if you wait all that time after your water breaks you can pick up an infection and that would be about 1000 times worse. Think about it, bacteria likes warm moist places and that is exactly what you have the minute your water breaks. I'm currently in my third trimester now with my rainbow baby and I am just super excited at this point to meet him 😁 soooo baby dust to those who are still trying to conceive and God's blessings to those who are close to meeting their baby in the next few days or weeks ❤
Julia, you Shined and were one of the Happiest pregnant Ladies I've ever witnessed...and Now here you are Sparkling & Thriving with Motherhood! When one gets married it's a life changing journey, then becoming a Family is another Life Changing Blessing! You instantly become engulfed with the purest Unconditional Love that is like no other ✨️ You & Hunter were made to become a Family! Love Ya'll so Much - Welcome Home Precious Smoke Hemingway Havens 🤍
I was super lucky with my OB. I was her top priority before the baby. I asked her multiple times if she would make sure I was okay especially with the stuff happening in the country towards mothers giving birth and their health. She always reassured me my health was her priority.
I switched from an OB to a team of midwives at a birthing center. My OB was highly rated but it really pissed me off that I had to wait 30-90 mins at the office before getting to see my OB for 5 mins. The office was always packed. Felt like my time was not respected, and my appts were so rushed. Seeing a midwife is SO different. My birth center limits their clients to 18 a month. I can take my time, get my questions answered, and I don’t feel like I’m at a human puppy mill.
Love this Julia! Such great information. I know you talked about going to pelvic floor PT during pregnancy and I HIGHLY recommend going postpartum once cleared by your OB 😊 I am a pelvic floor PT and my postpartum mommas always do so well and it really helps their recovery and easing back into exercise.
Motherhood looks incredible on you! You are glowing! I have already had my two beautiful babies, but loved watching this video anyway. I wish I had you to share these details when I was PP. Congratulations again, Havens ❤
I am so proud of you for continuing to breast feed. I didn't breast feed my first baby and didn't want to breast feed my second. My first had such eating problems, that when I had my second, I breast fed him so he wouldn't have the same issues. Let me say, I had every problem you can have with breast feeding, but I continued on until it worked its way out. It was the single most wonderful experience I had. Keep trying, you will get there in the end and you will be glad you did. God bless you and your sweet family and good luck.
Everything you talking about with your breastfeeding journey is normal! It takes time and after the first few months it’s becomes more mindless! I had an over supply which caused my babies to not be able to latch bc too much milk was coming out like a fountain haha so I would put the Hakaa on first to release some milk before putting them on and that helped a ton! Nipple shields were also a must for me for a few weeks too! You got this! ❤️
Breastfeeding / nursing is still considered both if you are exclusively pumping. I’ve been pumping for 7 months and my son and I have been extremely close and have a bond like no other. It’s just mind over matter that you can’t physically nurse your baby which will take time. Get through that hump and you won’t regret only pumping for your little boy! ❤
I completely agree! I exclusively pumped for 10 months. It was so heartbreaking not being able to nurse but I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m so happy I pushed through!
I had my baby a week after you and I agree it feels like it was just a dream. In the moment I was like this is awful I’m never having kids again and now I can’t even remember what the hospital room looked like that I gave birth in. It’s literally SO crazy.
God's miracle of conception, pregnancy and birth is indescribable. He gifts us with so many riches in this experience. And milk production! Wow, shaking my head at His love, creativity and wisdom!! Congratulations ❣
Breastfeeding is no easy task and I salute you for trying. I had a breastfeeding friend come over with her baby and watching how she did it made it click faster for me. I went to lactation consultants and breastfeeding support sessions at the health department. Even went to the ER one time, I was determined… The bond once you get past the initial stage is so beneficial for me. The second baby is a breeze. ❤
I suffered with horrible postpartum depression . I felt so alone and out of control. So glad for my relationship with GOD the counseling was interesting. I wish more women shared those experiences it felt like a secret NO one in my family shared any or their experiences 🙏 it was so hard. I would never wish it on my worst enemy. So glad I made it through my 2nd baby guy was a breeze. Nothing like that first experience. Also the hair loss the REAL. and thankfully temporary...
I cried for 2 weeks after having my twin girls. So many emotions. I also had baby A vaginally and baby B was a c-section. Tried breastfeeding but kept passing out. Went to the hospital and needed a blood transfusion. Also got saline since I was so swollen. But honestly, I had the best delivery. I was not in pain. Got to the hospital at 8 cm and the nurses were shocked 😂 my pain level was at 2.
I ended up using a nipple shield with my baby girl for a little over two months and then one day tried without it (after thinking that’s just how our journey was going to be) after a couple times she latched on perfectly and we’ve had a amazing experience and she’s now 6 months! Don’t let people put a time limit on it ❤️I had people rushing and pressuring me that I needed to get her off the nipple shield but I’m glad I stuck it out and did what felt right
Totally agree that the whole hospital and medical staff support not great. I had terrible experiences. Breastfeeding is a huge hurdle and not as natural as we think it should be which is really confusing. Sometimes we just have to move on so it doesn’t steal your joy-as long as the baby is getting good nutrition and growing you are trying your best and that counts the most.
100% I have a 2 week old newborn and what a ride! The whole hospital experience is so much! Complete decision fatigue! I was diagnosed with preeclampsia during labor with no previous pregnancy symptoms so I had to have a c section and no one prepares you for having a major surgery and also delivering a baby! I was in the hospital for 5 days and I suggest bringing a notebook because every nurse, doctor and lactation specialist all have different opinions and info! Andddd Breastfeeding is soo hard and feeding her every 3 hours at night is exhausting but With that all being said I would do it all again and I have never been happier, my daughter is my sunshine ☀️oh and thank you Jesus for all the nurses, every single one were sweet sweet angels!
I love this side of you and how happy you are bein a momma!! You jus glow! I loved being pregnant too I had wonderful pregnancies and I love every minute of it and felt great. I had a home-births with all 4 of my babies. that worked for me, but my experience with homebirth was wonderful. I was a precipitous labor so from the start of my first contraction to delivery my longest one was only three hours and it was just amazing one of my babies. I had a Lotta back labor. It was my son because he too was face up and that made for a real intense labor but he ended up turning at the last minute, and when it came to nursing I loved nursing. I know that this is been a sensitive journey for you with nursing and I love how determined that you are to you see if it can still be a part of your and smokes journey. You’re doing amazing job and I’m so proud of you. You just are wonderful. whatever the outcome is the most important thing it’s just that he gets fed and continue to show your self love and patience and grace and things are going to continue to go so amazing for you all. I guess I would have to say in my breast-feeding journey I was blessed that things went so well in feeding my babies my struggle was weaning them, and I know everyone who breast-feed has their vision of when weaning should be, but I definitely did not hurry the process of weaning. I did nurse mine till they were too except for my last one she decided to wean herself at five months, and I was just heartbroken, but at either rates, pregnancy and labor and childbirth and nursing and loving your baby is just the most amazing thing in the world and I am so happy that you’re getting to experience this I had the privilege of being on the le leche leauge and helped encouraged mommas breastfeeding and helped encourage mom said either couldn’t breast-feed or simply didn’t want to breast-feed after trying it. Sometimes it just came down to a six week journey of breast-feeding, which if you can give your baby six weeks that’s fantastic because of all the things that they get for their immunity whatever it looks like for anyone is OK. Just feed your baby, and then have a grace with yourself. Looking forward to seeing how you all continue to just blossom and thrive through this next chapter in your life I do have one question did you all decide to circumcise smoke? Love you guys❤❤❤❤❤❤ smoke is getting so big so whatever you’re doing it’s working mama👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🫶🏽
I’ve had 4 boys and I’ve enjoyed this video very much. I wish this was around when I had my babies; this was so informative. Thankyou for sharing your experience Julia. There is nothing in the world that is better than having babies I so agree. Giving birth is the best too there is nothing like it. I have breastfed my first two babies I agree it is difficult but you can get there but if it doesn’t don’t be hard on yourself your a wonderful Mom for little Smoke. Sending love your way from the UK 🇬🇧 xxx
You are glowing mama so happy you are happy. My labor journey was a little more complicated but so glad yours went well. Had my 1st baby at 32 there was something about turning 30 and my brain was just like it's baby time 😂 Just remember most mamas take a good amount of time off if they are able 3 + months around here seems pretty standard. The time with your 1st baby is so precious soak it all up work can wait ❤
Did they ever try and push a C-section? They did for me. Girl your mindset is what I wish I had. Our birth experience is literally identical (3am water break on Friday 12hr no epidural, and I gave birth Sunday at 1AM after pitocin) except I pushed 30 min. But I viewed my birth as traumatic because my blood pressure tanked from epidural and being in labor for so long. But now I see it as beautiful! It makes me feel better seeing someone who went through the same thing. My OB did a perineal massage so I only got a baby stitch thankfully
You're doing amazing with your breastfeeding. I breast fed my second and it is overwhelming. You're doing everything you can do. I only made it to about 2 months. I had to have pitocin for my first two, but my third i didn't even make it to the hospital. I had him in the ambulance and doing it without an epidural was so painful once i got to 10.
Julia I noticed you pulling up the middle part of the baby carrier your wearing - I used to use the strap that goes over your shoulder to pop my son’s head into too. That way their head is double strapped in and the middle bit tends to slip down slowly but the shoulder bit stays in place. Just thought I’d share that little tip. Couldn’t agree with you more though - the cloth type carriers are the BEST for the first 4 months before they start to fit better in the more heavy duty type carriers 😊
I loved this video💜 I am terrified of having a baby but i loved hearing your viewpoint and the love you have for Smoke🥹 Maybe in a vlog or different video can we hear Hunter's experience and viewpoint of how labor and delivery went?
I am so glad overall you had such a wonderful experience. I think it is so incredible how you are preserving with the breastfeeding. I agree it is not easy, but can also be euphoric too.
I feel the breastfeeding journey so hard. My baby girl never had a good latch from the beginning, my issue was the opposite, I have such a small chest and she had a receding jaw which made it so hard for her to latch well. After giving her bottles, she never even wanted to go back to breast because bottle feeding was easier for her so I pumped but my milk supply dropped due to stress and just not the best supply to begin with so here we are formula feeding. I always say fed is best at the end of the day BUT I totally understand the mental struggle and tears shed at the idea of not getting that breastfeeding bond and nourishing your baby straight for your body..it’s tough. You’re doing great momma, do what’s going to be best for YOU and him!! At the end of the day he is still going to love more than anything in the world whether he knows you breastfed him or bottle fed him🫶🏽
I was not prepared for all the pressure I would feel from society postpartum. I got consumed by what I was “supposed” to do, how I was “supposed” to feel, what everyone else deemed “best” for my baby. Now I’ve let all of that go, and let myself decide what’s best for my baby and my family and I’ve never felt better. It’s such a mental battle at first and no one warned me lol. You’re the perfect mom for your baby. He chose you for a reason, and anything you choose will be what’s best for him, believe that. 10 months pp now and I still cry with gratitude. 🫶🏼
Breastfeeding was extremely stressful for me when I had my baby because she wasn't getting enough to satisfy her the first few days so I went to exclusively pumping so we could know how much she was eating and feel better as first time parents. I'm still pumping and she just turned 9 months old. It gets easier and you figure out a routine. There's also a website about exclusively pumping that I found immensely helpful since there's not much info out there about it.
Yea you’re talking about the ring of fire when the baby’s head is coming out 😩 super painful but I agree… pushing a baby out is such a magical experience. Felt like everything went slow motion for me in that moment when I pushed out my baby 💕
I had two unmedicated births and my first one I feel like I kept telling myself it was going to get worse because I didn’t know what to expect and before I knew it she was here! My second time, I had more anxiety knowing the pain that was coming my way.
I loved being pregnant and so happy as well. As far as breastfeeding goes as he gets bigger he will get better. I did the same thing pumped my milk in the beginning until we figured it out. what worked for us was him laying flat on his side in bed with me and he would feed that way but wouldn't do it in my arms holding him until he got a little bigger. just keep taking it one day at a time and you both will get there.
I've been watching you guys for YEARS and have a little 5 year old girl. This is just an opinion, but I feel PPD is worse when the mother doesn't have a solid emotional/physical partner that's consistent. I've noticed PPD has been worse when their partner isn't making/or has not made the load as even or as fair as possible during that time. (There's also signs before kids). Parenthood isn't 50/50, but during the beginning stages, mom's take on SO much (not just the hormonal balances). Again, just my opinion but I think maybe PPD wasn't as intense is because Hunter is consistent with helping and you knew/saw that you had that emotional comfort. ❤️ that's a good thing, for many reasons.
This is a great video but I’m so distracted trying to figure out how the baby is positioned in the carrier! Is he completely slumped over to the right?
“It’s not like the movies” my water broke at home the same day Julia’s did at 36w+3d and I had my second baby two hours later 😅 i had to be taken by ambulance and ended up having him in the ER, all natural 😳 with my first I was induced and progressed very slowly at 39w+4d, complete opposite experience with my second and I didn’t see it coming!
Every labor and delivery is definitely different, all 3 of my kids were born within 3 hrs from the first contraction and no drugs even though I was begging for an epidural every time, the nurse delivered my third baby, the doctor was god only knows where, probably hiding because I didn’t get my epidural. Some women were made to just squat in a field because it comes so fast and furious, that’s me.
You’re glowing, Julia! I had a terrible birth experience (basically the complete opposite to yours haha) back in December, but becoming a mom is the most spectacular thing I’ve ever experienced. A “softening” like you mentioned… that’s exactly it! It can be tough, but the joy is like nothing else. ❤ so happy for you!
All three of my pregnancies and deliveries were drastically different. I’m so jealous that I didn’t know when I had my second that I could have asked for more time before the C-section was decided. I was only 19, She was face down on my cervix 😢, they tried to push on her head intermittently for two hours and wheeled me to surgery. With my third it was too late for an epidural I was deathly sick the whole entire nine months and she was premature/underweight. It was the easiest drug free labor but the most traumatic pregnancy and were split up after delivery they wouldn’t let her breastfeed bc she had to conserve her calories and gain weight. No one even guided me on when to push, my partner and I basically delivered her ourselves 😂. He was amazing and when he looked at me and said I’m so proud of you, I pushed twice and she was born, no tare that time. But I’m surprised not more people outlined just how amazing the whole experience is. Especially when you are at the right age, with your best partner it’s indescribable.
Omg 3 days of birth 😮 I have always thought I would have a rast delivery and even it was my first it yok 5 hours. Pushing was 30 minutes. Everyone was shocked! All I am trying to say is, believe that it is a easy thing to do. Because birth is super mental thing. It is literally not something your body does, it is something your brain does. Do yoga every day and never believe it is painful. I am saying these things to all the pregnant women out there. All women in my family had a long delivery and everybody was like it is very hard and stuff. Never believed them. I hope this story gives you hope ❤
Also Julia, I had a similar experience with bf and when u have a loot of milk babies struggle to bf. My baby also had hard time and I could not able to feed him. After 4-5 months she regret the bottle as well. And now only feed her when she is asleep. She is 11 months so she is eating normal meals now that I am happy but just leave breastfeeding early. If you can not find the way please leave it as it is and since he is young just go with one direction. When you are late it is not possible to go back 😢
The way you describe motherhood is so precious 🥹 also it would be so cool if Hunter did a similar video talking about his experience, talking to expecting dads on what to expect, how to be there for their partner, etc. 💗💗
You hear so much negativity around becoming a mother I feel like strictly about how hard it is and what a change it is etc, but I absolutely loved and appreciated hearing you express the immense joy and love it’s given you, while still acknowledging the hard parts. What a beautiful story, baby, and mama ♥️
Sweetheart, I am 76 years old and I love you and Hunter and Smoke so much. You are such a precious Mother and are just glowing. It makes my heart smile a lot. It’s awesome how much you have enjoyed this journey into motherhood. I envy your mother and mother-in-law having a daughter like you. May God bless your sweet family. I can’t wait to hear about Smoke’s little life and all the joy he will bring to your life and Hunter’s life. Smoke is one lucky little boy. 🌷🌺🌸🌼🌹🌻
You are so kind! Thank you ❤️
I am not pregnant nor have a baby. Did I watch this 49 min video? Yes, yes I did
🫶🏽
Same 😂🤣😉
same haha
Sammmeee lol
Same ❤️
I am 26 weeks pregnant and I so appreciate your positive attitude and outlook on all things pregnancy, birth, postpartum and baby. The world needs more of this.
I’m always so inspired by y’all when you talk about how you waited till you felt ready and had the desire to have a baby. I have always felt the same way but have never gotten support on that stance. People would always respond with “you’ll never be prepared or ready”. It’s so refreshing to hear your story and it motivates me to do what I truly want🤍
this video and your entire pregnancy journey has been such a breath of fresh air filled with so much positivity but also the most realistic advice. I’m due next month and you have only made me even more excited for this major life transition. You are GLOWING and your advice is so so appreciated 🤍
You’re more than just a mom and you’re meant for many things but oh my gosh watching you with him and the way you talk about this whole experience. You were meant to be a mom, your glow is crazy and it almost makes me cry because I can actually see your love for him and this whole experience through a screen
My midwife shared when we are pregnant, it’s the most in-tuned we’ll be with ourselves. Such a beautiful perspective.
Just want to say you’ve never looked more beautiful I really think it’s the happiness. I’m 8 weeks pregnant and this video made me feel so much better with my nerves! Thanks for sharing Julia❤
The way you describe motherhood and how it has softened you is EXACTLY how I feel. I have an 18m old and she has made me a kinder, more patient and gentle person. I’m also an elementary school teacher and it has made me look at kids with such a different, softer lens. Congratulations to you two!
And go Frogs! 😉💜
You are such a ray of positivity and I love your viewpoint on life and motherhood. Not a mom yet but the way you describe it makes me excited for the future!
I disagree on the OB and Nurse experience. I had an outstanding OB provider and I know several mamas who experience the same with theirs. My OB was definitely an advocate for me and my baby and the nurses in the delivery room made me feel so well taken care of. Even the postpartum staff was amazing after giving birth. And this was for BOTH my pregnancies. I hope your next birthing experience is more positive from this particular perspective.
How can you disagree with someone else’s experience? Clearly you had a better experience, this is just a place to share your story, 😂
The fact that you’re fighting so hard to be able to breastfeed that baby is INCREDIBLE. You go mama!
LOVED this video. So positive but realistic at the same time. You & Hunter were made to be parents. You're both smashing it. Sending so much love to you 4 xo
As a mama of a 17yr old,13yr old and 10yr old.. I absolutely love hearing new mommies stories! Congrats y’all! 😊
Julia, I am having my first baby and I am due February 2024. Watching this video has helped me so much and gave me such a great perspective on everything. You are such a positive light ❤❤❤
Omg!!! Your labor was so different than mine. I can't even imagine pushing for that long but YOU DID IT!!! 🎉 I had my first Jan 2021, once I was in my room I got my epidural and slept most of the time until they woke me to break my water & then woke me again to tell me I was at 10cm. I pushed for about 30 minutes, but I agree with you, pushing was the funnest part... especially since I felt so in tune with my body and finally like I could do it. Congrats!!!
I don’t know if this is any consolation, but I am a small business owner and a mom of two under 5. So I am writing from that perspective. Yes there are definitely crazy times and there are times you need away time from the kids, but that desire to always have your kids near you doesn’t really go away. It is a SUPER strong connection, and also a tool that drives you. Those desires for business and for your kids will feed off each other. Wanting to be with your kids forces you to be more regimented with your schedule and more organized, and reworking your schedule to fit each developmental stage in your child’s life. You will live off a calendar and a schedule, but the benefit and return on that is your business becomes even more successful and you are able to make that time for your kids. You’re right the first two months are crazy, but rest assured that passion for your child will drive your business
I have been watching every single vlog for the past i don’t even know how many years, and now that you guys have entered this phase, i just love you guys even more. I have no kids of my own but tons of nieces and nephews. Seeing your journey and others honestly helps me appreciate my own family and their journeys even more. I love hearing the ups and downs of it all, and i will definitely refer back to these vids when i choose to have kiddos❤️❤️
anyone else still watching this when they are no where near having a baby or giving birth? 🤣
🙋🏻♀️
Have no desire to have children, yet here I am 😂
Yep! My baby days are done but here I am!
@@car0lina93😢😢😢 by
Yes lmao
I’m literally 23 and single but watched the whole thing literally bc you answer every question so gracefully that it’s like bff is talking to me and I love it 🥹💗
Julia. This video was great for first time moms. I wish I was told all this when I was having my first child so many years ago. At first, I was thinking, it was not going to be relatable for me, because I already have all my children. I decided to watch anyway. You are one of the best at storytelling, and I also enjoy all of your videos. Telling your story was so on point, and I feel this will give all the pregnant women and new mom's a fresh perspective of the experience. I love that. 🥰
So happy for your family 🩵 hearing your positivity and how much you love motherhood is so refreshing to hear!
You are glowing mama! What a joy to watch you talk. From a fellow mama welcome to the club!! XO from LA🤍🤍🤍
Great video Julia! I had two natural/unmedicated births… and my last birth at the age of 40 I got an epidural! My birth plan was to go all natural…but let me tell you! I thought I would be so disappointed with myself for getting the epidural-but it WAS amazing! Don’t be hard on yourself if u get that help it made the birth so much more enjoyable and I was able to be more present!! ❤❤❤
Girl I’m so glad you didn’t tear and your recovery has been so smooth! My first baby was 10lb 4oz and I tore soo bad so that recovery was LONG! My second was 7lb 7oz and she slid right out so I didn’t tear and omg recovery was QUICK!
I’m recently married and we just started talking about kids (probably another year or 2) but thought I’d watch your labor video to see what it was like for you bc I know y’all keep it real! And honestly I was terrified. Girl you are a TROOPER! I won’t be so brave😅 but after watching this I totally understand where you’re coming from and I’m not as scared. So thank you❤
I just want to say that I was diagnosed with a tongue tie at 28 years old. It's not bad but it definitely impacted my health throughout my life. My myofunctional therapist said it was why I was sick often as a kid, breathing issues, posture issues (because I wasn't breathing properly) like I never knew how important proper tongue placement and getting a tongue tie addressed is so important. My mom didn't realize I had a tongue tie either bc I was not breast fed so I am so so happy you're addressing it early!
Julia I’ve commented this on a previous pregnant video of yours but I’ve been SO nervous to get pregnant because I’m worried my mental/physical health will suffer. Like I want to be a mom, but I don’t want to be pregnant lol. You give me a lot of relief and I will probably watch this video on repeat when I am pregnant one day 😂 love you guys and baby Smoke 💙
Ladies If your water breaks please go straight to the hospital. Yes it may take awhile for labor to progress & everyones "experience" is different however if you wait all that time after your water breaks you can pick up an infection and that would be about 1000 times worse. Think about it, bacteria likes warm moist places and that is exactly what you have the minute your water breaks.
I'm currently in my third trimester now with my rainbow baby and I am just super excited at this point to meet him 😁 soooo baby dust to those who are still trying to conceive and God's blessings to those who are close to meeting their baby in the next few days or weeks ❤
Thank you so much for this🥺 This got me so excited to have a baby after being so scared of it for YEARS!!!
Julia, you Shined and were one of the Happiest pregnant Ladies I've ever witnessed...and Now here you are Sparkling & Thriving with Motherhood! When one gets married it's a life changing journey, then becoming a Family is another Life Changing Blessing! You instantly become engulfed with the purest Unconditional Love that is like no other ✨️ You & Hunter were made to become a Family! Love Ya'll so Much - Welcome Home Precious Smoke Hemingway Havens 🤍
I was super lucky with my OB. I was her top priority before the baby. I asked her multiple times if she would make sure I was okay especially with the stuff happening in the country towards mothers giving birth and their health. She always reassured me my health was her priority.
I’m so glad you talked about your doula! I want one next pregnancy! My midwives were sooo much better than doctors in my experience ❤
this is the sweetest most joyful video. so grateful for your families presence on the internet- this perspective on motherhood is amazing
I switched from an OB to a team of midwives at a birthing center. My OB was highly rated but it really pissed me off that I had to wait 30-90 mins at the office before getting to see my OB for 5 mins. The office was always packed. Felt like my time was not respected, and my appts were so rushed. Seeing a midwife is SO different. My birth center limits their clients to 18 a month. I can take my time, get my questions answered, and I don’t feel like I’m at a human puppy mill.
Love seeing you as a mom. It’s so beautiful and you can see just how truly happy you are it’s just glowing out of you! 🩵
Love this Julia! Such great information. I know you talked about going to pelvic floor PT during pregnancy and I HIGHLY recommend going postpartum once cleared by your OB 😊 I am a pelvic floor PT and my postpartum mommas always do so well and it really helps their recovery and easing back into exercise.
Motherhood looks incredible on you! You are glowing!
I have already had my two beautiful babies, but loved watching this video anyway. I wish I had you to share these details when I was PP.
Congratulations again, Havens ❤
I am so proud of you for continuing to breast feed. I didn't breast feed my first baby and didn't want to breast feed my second. My first had such eating problems, that when I had my second, I breast fed him so he wouldn't have the same issues. Let me say, I had every problem you can have with breast feeding, but I continued on until it worked its way out. It was the single most wonderful experience I had. Keep trying, you will get there in the end and you will be glad you did. God bless you and your sweet family and good luck.
Everything you talking about with your breastfeeding journey is normal! It takes time and after the first few months it’s becomes more mindless! I had an over supply which caused my babies to not be able to latch bc too much milk was coming out like a fountain haha so I would put the Hakaa on first to release some milk before putting them on and that helped a ton! Nipple shields were also a must for me for a few weeks too! You got this! ❤️
Due in January with my first baby and I couldn’t have clicked on this video faster. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences 💗
Breastfeeding / nursing is still considered both if you are exclusively pumping. I’ve been pumping for 7 months and my son and I have been extremely close and have a bond like no other. It’s just mind over matter that you can’t physically nurse your baby which will take time. Get through that hump and you won’t regret only pumping for your little boy! ❤
Thank u so much for the encouragement!
I completely agree! I exclusively pumped for 10 months. It was so heartbreaking not being able to nurse but I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m so happy I pushed through!
I had my baby a week after you and I agree it feels like it was just a dream. In the moment I was like this is awful I’m never having kids again and now I can’t even remember what the hospital room looked like that I gave birth in. It’s literally SO crazy.
God's miracle of conception, pregnancy and birth is indescribable. He gifts us with so many riches in this experience. And milk production! Wow, shaking my head at His love, creativity and wisdom!!
Congratulations ❣
You’re so beautiful! You’re glowing and cheesing this whole video. You can truly see how happy you are. Love you! ❤
Breastfeeding is no easy task and I salute you for trying. I had a breastfeeding friend come over with her baby and watching how she did it made it click faster for me. I went to lactation consultants and breastfeeding support sessions at the health department. Even went to the ER one time, I was determined… The bond once you get past the initial stage is so beneficial for me. The second baby is a breeze. ❤
I suffered with horrible postpartum depression . I felt so alone and out of control. So glad for my relationship with GOD the counseling was interesting. I wish more women shared those experiences it felt like a secret NO one in my family shared any or their experiences 🙏 it was so hard. I would never wish it on my worst enemy. So glad I made it through my 2nd baby guy was a breeze. Nothing like that first experience. Also the hair loss the REAL. and thankfully temporary...
Julia thank you for being so raw! I’m so excited for this new chapter in your life and wish you the very best 💕 xoxo
I cried for 2 weeks after having my twin girls. So many emotions. I also had baby A vaginally and baby B was a c-section. Tried breastfeeding but kept passing out. Went to the hospital and needed a blood transfusion. Also got saline since I was so swollen. But honestly, I had the best delivery. I was not in pain. Got to the hospital at 8 cm and the nurses were shocked 😂 my pain level was at 2.
You are glowing!! You are making me want a baby now!🥹💗
Pushed 2 hours with baby number 1, and baby number 2 came in just 2 pushes!!! Your body is so much more prepared the second time around
I ended up using a nipple shield with my baby girl for a little over two months and then one day tried without it (after thinking that’s just how our journey was going to be) after a couple times she latched on perfectly and we’ve had a amazing experience and she’s now 6 months! Don’t let people put a time limit on it ❤️I had people rushing and pressuring me that I needed to get her off the nipple shield but I’m glad I stuck it out and did what felt right
I love the baby content and love seeing you as a mom. 💕💕
Totally agree that the whole hospital and medical staff support not great. I had terrible experiences. Breastfeeding is a huge hurdle and not as natural as we think it should be which is really confusing. Sometimes we just have to move on so it doesn’t steal your joy-as long as the baby is getting good nutrition and growing you are trying your best and that counts the most.
due in december with my first and honestly this made me feel so much less anxious! thank you🫶🏼
100% I have a 2 week old newborn and what a ride! The whole hospital experience is so much! Complete decision fatigue! I was diagnosed with preeclampsia during labor with no previous pregnancy symptoms so I had to have a c section and no one prepares you for having a major surgery and also delivering a baby! I was in the hospital for 5 days and I suggest bringing a notebook because every nurse, doctor and lactation specialist all have different opinions and info! Andddd Breastfeeding is soo hard and feeding her every 3 hours at night is exhausting but With that all being said I would do it all again and I have never been happier, my daughter is my sunshine ☀️oh and thank you Jesus for all the nurses, every single one were sweet sweet angels!
I love this side of you and how happy you are bein a momma!! You jus glow! I loved being pregnant too I had wonderful pregnancies and I love every minute of it and felt great. I had a home-births with all 4 of my babies. that worked for me, but my experience with homebirth was wonderful. I was a precipitous labor so from the start of my first contraction to delivery my longest one was only three hours and it was just amazing one of my babies. I had a Lotta back labor. It was my son because he too was face up and that made for a real intense labor but he ended up turning at the last minute, and when it came to nursing I loved nursing. I know that this is been a sensitive journey for you with nursing and I love how determined that you are to you see if it can still be a part of your and smokes journey. You’re doing amazing job and I’m so proud of you. You just are wonderful. whatever the outcome is the most important thing it’s just that he gets fed and continue to show your self love and patience and grace and things are going to continue to go so amazing for you all. I guess I would have to say in my breast-feeding journey I was blessed that things went so well in feeding my babies my struggle was weaning them, and I know everyone who breast-feed has their vision of when weaning should be, but I definitely did not hurry the process of weaning. I did nurse mine till they were too except for my last one she decided to wean herself at five months, and I was just heartbroken, but at either rates, pregnancy and labor and childbirth and nursing and loving your baby is just the most amazing thing in the world and I am so happy that you’re getting to experience this I had the privilege of being on the le leche leauge and helped encouraged mommas breastfeeding and helped encourage mom said either couldn’t breast-feed or simply didn’t want to breast-feed after trying it. Sometimes it just came down to a six week journey of breast-feeding, which if you can give your baby six weeks that’s fantastic because of all the things that they get for their immunity whatever it looks like for anyone is OK. Just feed your baby, and then have a grace with yourself. Looking forward to seeing how you all continue to just blossom and thrive through this next chapter in your life I do have one question did you all decide to circumcise smoke? Love you guys❤❤❤❤❤❤ smoke is getting so big so whatever you’re doing it’s working mama👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🫶🏽
I loved this video so much!! And love how happy you are and all your positive vibes but also keeping it real. Thank you for sharing
I’ve had 4 boys and I’ve enjoyed this video very much. I wish this was around when I had my babies; this was so informative. Thankyou for sharing your experience Julia. There is nothing in the world that is better than having babies I so agree. Giving birth is the best too there is nothing like it. I have breastfed my first two babies I agree it is difficult but you can get there but if it doesn’t don’t be hard on yourself your a wonderful Mom for little Smoke. Sending love your way from the UK 🇬🇧 xxx
You are glowing mama so happy you are happy. My labor journey was a little more complicated but so glad yours went well. Had my 1st baby at 32 there was something about turning 30 and my brain was just like it's baby time 😂 Just remember most mamas take a good amount of time off if they are able 3 + months around here seems pretty standard. The time with your 1st baby is so precious soak it all up work can wait ❤
Motherhood looks amazing on you Juj
Did they ever try and push a C-section? They did for me. Girl your mindset is what I wish I had. Our birth experience is literally identical (3am water break on Friday 12hr no epidural, and I gave birth Sunday at 1AM after pitocin) except I pushed 30 min. But I viewed my birth as traumatic because my blood pressure tanked from epidural and being in labor for so long. But now I see it as beautiful! It makes me feel better seeing someone who went through the same thing. My OB did a perineal massage so I only got a baby stitch thankfully
Motherhood looks amazing on you 🩵🩵🩵
Yessss.. After my induction with my son I literally became so anti hospital/OB… definitely getting a doula next go-round!
You are the most adorable human being. So thrilled for you and your little fam. ❤🩹
You're doing amazing with your breastfeeding. I breast fed my second and it is overwhelming. You're doing everything you can do. I only made it to about 2 months. I had to have pitocin for my first two, but my third i didn't even make it to the hospital. I had him in the ambulance and doing it without an epidural was so painful once i got to 10.
Julia I noticed you pulling up the middle part of the baby carrier your wearing - I used to use the strap that goes over your shoulder to pop my son’s head into too. That way their head is double strapped in and the middle bit tends to slip down slowly but the shoulder bit stays in place. Just thought I’d share that little tip. Couldn’t agree with you more though - the cloth type carriers are the BEST for the first 4 months before they start to fit better in the more heavy duty type carriers 😊
He has grown so much already!!! Wow! Blessings!
“It’s so f***ing cool, you will die.” LMAO probably not the best way to say this😂😂
I loved this video💜 I am terrified of having a baby but i loved hearing your viewpoint and the love you have for Smoke🥹 Maybe in a vlog or different video can we hear Hunter's experience and viewpoint of how labor and delivery went?
Thank you, Julia! For sharing your experience with us. You are so strong ❤
I am so glad overall you had such a wonderful experience. I think it is so incredible how you are preserving with the breastfeeding. I agree it is not easy, but can also be euphoric too.
So excited to watch - I’m due with my first in 2 weeks! ❤
I feel the breastfeeding journey so hard. My baby girl never had a good latch from the beginning, my issue was the opposite, I have such a small chest and she had a receding jaw which made it so hard for her to latch well. After giving her bottles, she never even wanted to go back to breast because bottle feeding was easier for her so I pumped but my milk supply dropped due to stress and just not the best supply to begin with so here we are formula feeding. I always say fed is best at the end of the day BUT I totally understand the mental struggle and tears shed at the idea of not getting that breastfeeding bond and nourishing your baby straight for your body..it’s tough. You’re doing great momma, do what’s going to be best for YOU and him!! At the end of the day he is still going to love more than anything in the world whether he knows you breastfed him or bottle fed him🫶🏽
I was not prepared for all the pressure I would feel from society postpartum. I got consumed by what I was “supposed” to do, how I was “supposed” to feel, what everyone else deemed “best” for my baby. Now I’ve let all of that go, and let myself decide what’s best for my baby and my family and I’ve never felt better. It’s such a mental battle at first and no one warned me lol. You’re the perfect mom for your baby. He chose you for a reason, and anything you choose will be what’s best for him, believe that. 10 months pp now and I still cry with gratitude. 🫶🏼
You look so genuinely happy & glowing ✨congratulations! Love your perspective!
Thanks for sharing your experience. ❤
That Mama Glow is adorable on you. I watched while shopping on Amazon.
👀 the earrings in this video! needed. You have such a dope earring collection. Top notch
Breastfeeding was extremely stressful for me when I had my baby because she wasn't getting enough to satisfy her the first few days so I went to exclusively pumping so we could know how much she was eating and feel better as first time parents. I'm still pumping and she just turned 9 months old. It gets easier and you figure out a routine. There's also a website about exclusively pumping that I found immensely helpful since there's not much info out there about it.
Yea you’re talking about the ring of fire when the baby’s head is coming out 😩 super painful but I agree… pushing a baby out is such a magical experience. Felt like everything went slow motion for me in that moment when I pushed out my baby 💕
Loveeee hearing everyone’s story! Especially because I loveeee having babies but my hubby says no more 😂😅 so I live for all the juicy details!
😂😂🤌🏽
I had two unmedicated births and my first one I feel like I kept telling myself it was going to get worse because I didn’t know what to expect and before I knew it she was here! My second time, I had more anxiety knowing the pain that was coming my way.
I’m 9 weeks PP - this video is so informative. While everyone can be different, it’s just good to know too
I loved being pregnant and so happy as well. As far as breastfeeding goes as he gets bigger he will get better. I did the same thing pumped my milk in the beginning until we figured it out. what worked for us was him laying flat on his side in bed with me and he would feed that way but wouldn't do it in my arms holding him until he got a little bigger. just keep taking it one day at a time and you both will get there.
I’m not pregnant or married but I loved every minute of this hahah ♥️
I've been watching you guys for YEARS and have a little 5 year old girl.
This is just an opinion, but I feel PPD is worse when the mother doesn't have a solid emotional/physical partner that's consistent.
I've noticed PPD has been worse when their partner isn't making/or has not made the load as even or as fair as possible during that time. (There's also signs before kids).
Parenthood isn't 50/50, but during the beginning stages, mom's take on SO much (not just the hormonal balances).
Again, just my opinion but I think maybe PPD wasn't as intense is because Hunter is consistent with helping and you knew/saw that you had that emotional comfort.
❤️ that's a good thing, for many reasons.
I have a suggestion . You guys make a family channel and then keep this as your main channel where everything’s from your POV 🥰
Thank you for sharing your pregnacy and pp jounery. I deliver in a few weeks and this is all very encouraging.
Mom life looks amazing on u Juj❤
This is a great video but I’m so distracted trying to figure out how the baby is positioned in the carrier! Is he completely slumped over to the right?
Would be cool to see a video sometime on your favorite baby items that you find useful.
“It’s not like the movies” my water broke at home the same day Julia’s did at 36w+3d and I had my second baby two hours later 😅 i had to be taken by ambulance and ended up having him in the ER, all natural 😳 with my first I was induced and progressed very slowly at 39w+4d, complete opposite experience with my second and I didn’t see it coming!
Every labor and delivery is definitely different, all 3 of my kids were born within 3 hrs from the first contraction and no drugs even though I was begging for an epidural every time, the nurse delivered my third baby, the doctor was god only knows where, probably hiding because I didn’t get my epidural. Some women were made to just squat in a field because it comes so fast and furious, that’s me.
You’re glowing, Julia! I had a terrible birth experience (basically the complete opposite to yours haha) back in December, but becoming a mom is the most spectacular thing I’ve ever experienced. A “softening” like you mentioned… that’s exactly it! It can be tough, but the joy is like nothing else. ❤ so happy for you!
All three of my pregnancies and deliveries were drastically different. I’m so jealous that I didn’t know when I had my second that I could have asked for more time before the C-section was decided. I was only 19, She was face down on my cervix 😢, they tried to push on her head intermittently for two hours and wheeled me to surgery. With my third it was too late for an epidural I was deathly sick the whole entire nine months and she was premature/underweight. It was the easiest drug free labor but the most traumatic pregnancy and were split up after delivery they wouldn’t let her breastfeed bc she had to conserve her calories and gain weight. No one even guided me on when to push, my partner and I basically delivered her ourselves 😂. He was amazing and when he looked at me and said I’m so proud of you, I pushed twice and she was born, no tare that time. But I’m surprised not more people outlined just how amazing the whole experience is. Especially when you are at the right age, with your best partner it’s indescribable.
Omg 3 days of birth 😮 I have always thought I would have a rast delivery and even it was my first it yok 5 hours. Pushing was 30 minutes. Everyone was shocked! All I am trying to say is, believe that it is a easy thing to do. Because birth is super mental thing. It is literally not something your body does, it is something your brain does. Do yoga every day and never believe it is painful. I am saying these things to all the pregnant women out there. All women in my family had a long delivery and everybody was like it is very hard and stuff. Never believed them. I hope this story gives you hope ❤
Also Julia, I had a similar experience with bf and when u have a loot of milk babies struggle to bf. My baby also had hard time and I could not able to feed him. After 4-5 months she regret the bottle as well. And now only feed her when she is asleep. She is 11 months so she is eating normal meals now that I am happy but just leave breastfeeding early. If you can not find the way please leave it as it is and since he is young just go with one direction. When you are late it is not possible to go back 😢
The way you describe motherhood is so precious 🥹 also it would be so cool if Hunter did a similar video talking about his experience, talking to expecting dads on what to expect, how to be there for their partner, etc. 💗💗
You are being so super helpful THANK YOU SO MUCH