Maddie West is Back!

I'm baaaaaaack...

After eight long (but not long enough) weeks, I am finally back in the studio with The Rob.

So much happened while I was gone! For starters...I'M A MOM NOW! On June 19, 2018 at 2:40 p.m., I gave birth to a healthy 9-pound (yes...ouch) baby boy. My life did a complete 180, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I absolutely love being a Mommy.

My birth experience was nothing short of incredible. Sure, it hurt and there's nothing pleasant about pushing a big 'ol baby out of a tiny hole, but the staff at St. Vincent are God-sent. It was actually much more relaxed than I thought it'd be. When I think of birthing a child, I pictured myself sweating and yelling and cussing, but it wasn't anything like that. I wanted to be Super Mom and go drug-free, but after several hours in active labor, I NEEDED an epidural. I'm sure that takes a lot of credit for how peaceful my experience was, but it was so relaxed and mellow.

Actually, at one point during my labor, the nurse asked if I wanted to turn the TV on because the atmosphere was so quite. I didn't, but that just goes to show how peaceful it was. I am very fortunate that I had no complications or scares during delivery. He came out big and screaming!

I've learned so much in my short time as a parent - like how you should always have a diaper under the one you're changing to catch anything that might come out during the change. Trust me. I've been pooped and peed on...several times. The funny thing is, it doesn't even bother me. I'm just like, "oh, that's poop on my hand, better clean that off." Nothing grosses me out anymore.

I've also became exceptionally skilled in finding a pacifier in a car seat, putting it in my baby's mouth, and driving all at the same time. It sounds dangerous, but all Moms have to do it. It's like the unwritten rule in the driver's ed book. They should really add it, to be honest.

Also, sometimes babies just cry to cry. Especially if they're colicky, which is my current situation. While nobody is exactly sure what Colic is, they believe it has something to do with babies bellies. It can be a nightmare sometimes because all they want to do is cry. It's heartbreaking and frustrating at the same time. Say a little prayer for new parents dealing with Colic, because it's TOUGH.

Aside from the messiness and lack of sleep, being a Mom is hands-down the greatest thing that's ever happened to me. Now that my life has changed dramatically, I can't even remember what it was like before. I have so much more to look forward to now. Something as little as my baby's smile can turn my mood upside down. It's impossible to be angry or upset when I look at him. Sure, it's the hardest thing I've ever done, but it is absolutely worth every sleepless night. I can't even put into words how much I love my baby boy. It's truly an entirely different type of love than I've ever experienced before.

ANYWAY - I am SO excited to be back, seriously. I wanted all the time I could take off with my baby, but I have been so eager and excited to come back. I can't wait to share all my hilarious parenting fails and triumphs with you guys. My life just got a whole lot crazier - and that says A LOT. Stay tuned!