What people don't tell you about having a baby...

As a mom to a four-year-old kindergartener and six-month-old baby, I've met lots of new parents who have had a hard time adjusting to new babies. So I thought, hey, why not compile this list of things to expect if you're expecting a little one? Check out these points:

1. It's not uncommon to go a day or two (or more) without showering. 
Whether you're rocking a fussy baby or breastfeeding at midnight, washing yourself has no importance; besides, sleeping is much more attractive at this point! So if you want a few minutes to shower or take time for yourself, do ask for help from family or friends.

2. Your sleep routine will change.
Especially when baby is going through a developmental change, such as rolling, your baby's sleep will be disturbed. It's inevitable! The best thing to think during those sleepless nights is this won't last forever. It seems easier said than done, but the thought does stick and trust me, it's 100-percent true.

3. Your baby will cost money.

I may sound curt, but when I hear the saying "all my baby needs is love," it just sounds ridiculous. Let's face it – babies need diapers, clothes, formula if you're bottle-feeding, food, strollers, you name it! Which is why I created Adventures in Baby Savings four years ago – to inspire new parents to save money through unique avenues, such as coupons, price-matching, and even interacting with others through the Facebook group.

Want to know more about life as a new parent? Check out this post "Guest blogger reveals life change as a new dad" by Casey Palmer. 

5 Things I Rediscovered After Having My Second Baby

After a gruelling pregnancy of countless infections, painful Braxton Hicks contractions through both my second and third trimesters, multiple trips to the walk-in clinic and endless nausea, I finally gave birth to my beautiful son on November 9th.

And what a baby – maybe I'm speaking too soon, but he's a great sleeper, eater and totally calm! However, this whole prenatal and postnatal experience has forced me to reflect on four years ago, when I gave birth to my daughter.

So when it comes to saving your sanity and money, check out these tips for if you're have your first, second or nineteenth baby:

1. Just say no. Seriously. If family or friends want you to come over to their place, or you were asked to organize an event, don't do it. Just don't. You pushed a watermelon out of your body, you deserve to rest!

2. Keep food and water at your nightstand. Nighttime feedings with a newborn can make you hungry and thirsty. So here's your chance to be lazy - keep granola bars and water bottles by your bed instead of walking to the kitchen.

3. Ask for help. There's no shame in asking your parents or grandparents to bring some food over, as well as saying "yes" when a friend offers to buy you groceries or do your laundry. This is a time when you need to think about your recovery.

4. Don't cheap out on lanolin cream. "They" say applying breast milk should help with sore and cracked nipples. But geez, if you need a nudge on axing the uncomfortable-ness of breastfeeding, splurge $10 or $12 on some lanolin cream. It's worth it!

5. Samples can be lifesavers. If you get some worthwhile samples, keep them in a container or drawer. (But not in a hoarder way, if you know what I mean.)  When I refer to worthwhile, I mean moisturizers, bottles, diaper rash creams, etc. They could come in handy in desperate situations (that's how I realized Lansinoh is worth it!).

What are your tips for surviving with a newborn? Looking forward to reading your feedback! And as always, please continue to post your money-saving tips on the official Adventures in Baby Savings Facebook Group.