BleuMinimal beginnings-Embracing Minimalism with a Newborn on the Way—Mission Possible?
Hey, Bleu Bells!
Today, I’m peeling back the curtains on a personal battle I've been having: striving for a minimalistic lifestyle while preparing for my new baby, Sariah. You heard that right: trying to keep life simple, even with a newborn on the way! Now I ask myself, is this possible? I know I will have to give up some things in my life to become a new mother. I am making room for a whole human, but I believe I can make it work by forming her into my lifestyle, where we co-exist interdependently and independently.
Okay, now it’s truth time…I haven't purchased one item for Sariah yet, and while some might find that surprising, there’s a method to my madness. After buying my first home, I learned I had too much clutter in every closet when I sold it. I lived that clutter-infested life three years ago; let me tell you, it was a complete waste of time and energy.
I vowed to myself never to do that again, becoming sucked into a consumer lifestyle. I was buying shit just because I could, not because I needed it, shopping at TJ Maxx and Homegoods for items I don’t use, crowding my cabinets with excessive items where I no longer see the back of it, and buying the same item twice! This was me! I was so disgusted by the money I wasted. I couldn’t believe it. It was what I needed, a reflection of necessity vs wants.
I'm determined not to clutter our space with endless baby gear. Instead, I want to focus on what’s essential-genuinely essential. I’m about creating a 'Shaybleu Minimal Pregnancy Lifestyle'—a life where quality trumps quantity. This isn’t about scrimping; it’s about making deliberate, thoughtful choices that benefit our environment and my little one's upbringing.
Why Minimalism?
It's more than just an aesthetic or a space-saving technique. For me, it's about reducing stress and enhancing our quality of life. It’s about making room—physically and emotionally—for the things that truly matter. I know having a baby changes EVERYTHING, and enough people have scared me to believe I am not prepared because I have not bought any baby items yet. Trust me, this has gone over and over in my head, causing some anxiety. But you know what, Fuck it. I will get through this. We will get through this and make it work. We will purchase the items we need to exceed Sariah’s development based on necessity, not wants. This is about her, not me. What will make her life better?
I am not saying I don’t want her to look cute in baby clothes or be spoiled by her grandparents and family members. I want all of those things, but I also want her life to be filled with exposure, experiences, love, and not a bunch of materialistic things she will forget about or never know she had. I want her to develop memories of experiences she will never forget. We won’t be able to protect her from everything. We can only be there for her anytime she needs us. If we have the best intentions, ask for help, do research, and console people who support us, I believe we can make it work. It will not be perfect. No matter what, I will be overwhelmed and stressed about it because that is who I am, and trust me, I can’t suddenly change my emotions overnight.
I birthday party spent in Italy
The Reality Check:
Yes, babies need stuff. But how much is dictated by marketing, and how much do they genuinely need? That's the question I keep asking myself as I prepare for Sariah's arrival. Navigating this path will be challenging, and I’m open to adjusting as we go along. What's crucial for me is maintaining a balance that honors our needs and my vision for a simplified, enriched life.
This is what I call BleuMinimal Beginnings. This is my start-up.
The Minimalist Baby Checklist:
1. High-Quality Essentials: I’m talking about items like Dr. Brown's bottles, which are known for reducing feeding problems, and Honest brand diapers, which are eco-friendly and gentle on baby skin.
2. Nutritious Feeding: Organic baby food isn't just a trend; it's about starting Sariah on the path of health and wellness.
3. Structured Simplicity: Keeping Sariah on a well-thought-out schedule to help with her development and our bonding time.
4. Eco-Friendly Diaper Genie: Choose a model that prioritizes sustainability, helping you manage diaper disposal responsibly.
5. Efficient Hands-Free Breast Pump: Invest in a high-quality breast pump that allows multitasking, ensuring you can pump efficiently without pausing your day.
6. Baby-Proof Cleaning Supplies: Stock up on non-toxic, baby-safe cleaning products to ensure a clean and safe environment.
7. Baby Essentials: Include soft baby blankets, comfortable onesies, and cozy socks, choosing items that are easy to clean and durable.
8. All-Terrain Stroller: Choose a stroller designed for walking and running. It should have robust wheels that can handle varied terrains, perfect for active lifestyles.
So, to all the expecting moms contemplating a similar path or anyone living with less, how do you do it? What are your non-negotiables? Let’s open up this conversation because navigating minimalism with a newborn is new territory for me, and I’m all ears for your insights and experiences.
Here’s to less clutter and more clarity as we journey through motherhood and minimalism!
Here’s to less clutter and more clarity as we journey through motherhood and minimalism!
Stay true and minimal, Bleu Bells! 💙