Lessons I’ve Learned through Motherhood

05.08.2018

Mother’s Day is almost here and I’ve been reflecting on the past 7 months with Charlie. It’s been a surreal blur. It seems like yesterday I was wondering how I’d survive one more night without sleep and now I want to hold to every second longer. I look back at pictures of him as a brand new infant and he couldn’t look more different now. Full cheeks. Longer hair. Bright, bright, attentive blue eyes. And so much personality. I can’t believe how quickly they change.

I’m a new parent and no expert by any means, but I thought I’d share some lessons I’ve learned through this journey so far:

1. Time is Precious: I’ve always valued my time but ever since having Charlie, I’m super protective of it. I don’t get a lot of time to myself, so when I do, I embrace every second of it and focus on spending it with people and things that bring me joy.

2. What works for me is different than others: One size does not fit all! Our comfort levels, stress levels, patience levels, and life experiences are all different as well as our babies! I used to get stressed that if I wasn’t doing things the way my friends were, Charlie and I would suffer. But we found our own rhythm through trial and error and it works for us.

3. Suddenly, nothing is really TMI: I can’t believe how different conversations are now that I’ve had a baby come out of my body! Growing and deflated boobs and our children’s bowel movements are common topics.

4. “Someday you’ll understand” is NOW– I can’t count how many times I heard that phrase growing up. If anything makes you appreciate your parents more, it’s becoming them!

5. People Judge: It’s just reality. Whether you’re breastfeeding, not breastfeeding, working, staying at home, having your kids on a schedule, using pacifiers, not using pacifiers- etc, etc, etc… , you will be judged by the decisions you make. Stop worrying about what other people think and do you!

6. Get a good camera. I never regret any picture I take!

7. Always have baby wipes. In your bag, in your car, easily accessible at all times.

8. Mom guilt is a thing. And I’m not sure if ever goes away. I think it’s just a part of loving my child and loving myself too. Balance is key.

9. Getting to bed at 9pm is my new favorite thing to do. After a bath and with a good book too!

10. There is no sound better in the world than a baby’s laughter. Honestly, there’s not.

11. Sometimes, you’ll feel like your heart might actually explode. It’s just the feeling of the deepest, most overwhelming, unconditional love.

12. Get the babysitter. Your kid will survive. You’ll get a break. And you’ll be so happy you scheduled a date night.

13. Life is messier. I’m learning to accept that my house won’t be squeaky clean 24/7 anymore and that’s okay.

14. Children are sponges. Charlie may only be 7 months old, but he’s already picking up on our cues. I know he will learn from us how to treat himself, others, and the world around him.

15. There are no sick days. The struggle is real!

16. I am strong. No seriously, you should see the carseat I lug around. It’s no joke! Not only am I strong physically (birthing a baby and all), but I’ve learned how capable I am. Every new milestone presents its challenges but I figure out a way to work with them. I can do things I didn’t know I could do. I am a badass!

17. It’s okay to put myself first sometimes. In order for me to be the best mom to Charlie, I have to take care of myself. If that means delaying his nap so I can work out, that’s okay. If it means letting him play on the floor by himself for a while so I can type a blog post and edit pictures, that’s okay.

18. Count my blessings! Each and every day is a gift with this little family of mine and we are so blessed!