Today marks Sadies four week birthday (yes I'm making this a thing) so I thought it was time I shared a few things I've learnt during my pregnancy and in the first month of being a mum. The kind of things no one tells you that you wish you knew, so whether you're expecting your first baby, fancy some insight or have been there, done that and wanna say amen sister then you're in the right place.

 1. Listen to your body. If you fancy that donut then go for it, feel absolutely shattered, take a nap - your little one is taking everything it needs from you so now's not the time to count calories or be superwoman.

2. Life will slow down, embrace it. Two weeks ago Craig and I were in Meadowhall, normally I'd dash supermarket sweep style into the shops, grab what I need and head home. With a baby you'll make maybe one or two shops before feeding time needs to happen and you know what? It's ok that things take longer, it's actually enjoyable plus you get to visit a whole lotta Costas and Starbucks.

3. Packing your hospital bag? You need a facial spritz (nothing keeps you cool in labour like it) and when you're buying breast pads and maternity towels, go big or go home. Trust me, you'll go through these quicker than a jar of Nutella.

4. If you manage to dodge stretch marks throughout your pregnancy (I loved Argan+ mum to be stretch mark oil) they may creep up on you after you welcome your little one into the world. I'm told they fade and hey, they mark the arrival of something special.

 5. The first few weeks with your new little family are precious so don't be scared to say no to guests or worry about limiting how long they can stay for, it might seem mean but you've got to prioritise.

6. Breastfeeding? You need an Emma Jane nursing bra in your life, perfect until you're ready for something a tad more supportive. Oh and if you thought your pregnancy boobs couldn't get any bigger, trust me when I say they can and they will. One last thing on breastfeeding (I could write an entire post) if you haven't fed bambino in a while you will experience a pins and needle sensation in your boobs, just like on Bad Neighbours. 

7. If the sex of your baby is a surprise then you must check out John Lewis, Mothercare and The White Company - those guys know how to do neutral basics that'll suit both a boy and a girl. While we're talking clothes how cute are these handmade booties and hat set? Find out more about my friends friend who made them here.

8. It's ok to have moments where you doubt yourself and wonder if you can do it - having a baby is a huge learning curve, throw hormones into the mix and things can feel cray but it's worth it, I promise. I find having a bar of Dairy Milk handy works wonders.

9. Muslin cloths will become your new best friend, stock up and keep them everywhere.

10. Grab any me time with both hands, whether it's taking an extra five minutes in the shower, having a nap or catching up on blogs - make the most of it and more importantly, sleep when the baby sleeps! Don't be tidying up and writing blog posts.... It can wait.

 What do you wish you knew in pregnancy and beyond?